How to protect yourself when shopping online? How can I determine the reliability of an online shopping site?

The surge in online shopping during the pandemic has led to the emergence of many new online shopping sites offering convenience and affordability. But not all online marketplaces can be reliable. And determining their reliability is critical to protecting your personal and financial information. So how can you protect yourself when shopping online and how can you determine the reliability of an online shop?
Trusted online marketplaces
It is best to order from large or trusted online shops that take care of their reputation. Here are some examples of such trusted online marketplaces:

Amazon. Amazon is one of the largest and most reputable online marketplaces worldwide, known for its wide range of products, reliable service and effective customer protection policies. Amazon has earned the trust of millions of online shoppers.
Autodoc. Autodoc is an online marketplace specialising in the sale of car parts and accessories. Can AUTODOC  be trusted? This question is answered by the figures. In 2022, about 6.6 million customers ordered spare parts from AUTODOC. Since 2008, more than 18.5 million customers have trusted the company.
eBay. eBay, an e-commerce marketplace, connects buyers and sellers in a global marketplace. With a comprehensive feedback system, eBay allows users to rate sellers based on their past transactions, which promotes transparency and trust.
Caution when shopping online
If you find a coveted product on an unknown or lesser known portal, check it using the methods below before making a purchase.

Check the security of the website
Before making any online purchase, you need to make sure that the site is secure. Look for “https://” in the URL and a lock icon in the address bar. This indicates a secure connection. Avoid entering personal information on sites that do not have these protections.

Read reviews and ratings
Customer reviews and ratings provide valuable information about the reliability of an online marketplace. Well-known marketplaces such as Amazon and eBay prominently display user reviews, allowing you to assess the quality of goods and the trustworthiness of sellers.

Check the seller’s information
When shopping on less familiar sites, take the time to research the seller’s information. Look for contact information, customer service details and user reviews. Reputable shopping sites often have robust seller verification processes in place.

Use secure payment methods
Stick to secure payment methods such as credit cards or reliable online payment systems. Avoid using direct bank transfers or less secure methods that may not protect buyers. Trusted platforms often integrate secure payment gateways to protect your financial information.

Read the return policy
Reliable online marketplaces have clear and customer-friendly return policies. Before making a purchase, familiarise yourself with the return procedure and ensure that the site provides adequate support in case of problems with the product.

As online shopping continues to evolve, ensuring that your shopping experience is safe and secure is paramount. By paying attention to your online safety and relying on trustworthy marketplaces, you can shop online with confidence and protect yourself from potential risks.