I was scrolling through Instagram one late night when I came across a sponsored post linking to a website selling designer watches at super-cheap prices. I was pretty new to the online shopping world so I took the bait and added a few watches to the cart then proceeded to check out. It asked for my card details as usual. At that time, I used my boyfriend’s credit card since I didn’t have one. He asked what I was buying and I said I saw some nice watches online. He asked to see the link and immediately told me it was a scam. I wasn’t ready. Since that day, I only shop at well-known stores.
Do’s
- Use discount promo-codes
The way we ask for a discount while shopping in walk-in stores is the same way you should look for discount codes. Most online stores like Fashion Nova and Zaful regularly have promo codes so look out for these to save some extra money. There are also plugins that help you find the best deals online.
- Check sizing
You don’t want to buy something shipped for an entire 23 business days only for it to be too small or too big. In Kenya, we use European measurements which differ from American measurements. Always check the size chart.
- Open a Paypal Account
It couldn’t be easier now that Safaricom has partnered with Paypal to ease transactions for the Kenyan market. Online purchases through your Paypal account will protect your personal and card details. After my experience, I’m very wary of sharing my details with any site.
- Consider Group Shipping
Shipping costs can be a huge pain in the backside especially if your items aren’t that pricy. Look for friends or family members who are planning on buying something online and consolidate the order instead of shipping the items individually.
- Choose Cash-On-Delivery
If this is one of the options, then this is the best option. For local online shops like Jumia, they provide an option for cash on delivery which ensures that goods are only paid for once they reach the buyer.
Don’ts
- Use Public Wi-Fi
It’s easier for hackers to gain access to public Wi-Fi. So, avoid using your office Wi-Fi to do online shopping. Rather, shop while you’re at home since it’s more secure and you don’t risk getting caught by the boss.
- Use Your Personal Or Work Email
For online shopping, create a new email so as to manage the risk of getting hacked. It would be a tragedy if your work or personal email got hacked.
- Stick To One Store
As much as Amazon or e-Bay are reputable companies, there are other great stores online that offer similar products and international shipping at cheaper prices. Try them out for a change.
- Fall for scams
If the deal is too good, think twice. Be vigilant in scrutinizing websites. Look out for fake giveaways. You can also download anti-phishing extensions that filter out fake websites.
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Featured image from sunbgi.com
