Consumer Protection
Shop and pay with more protection
Choose protected payment methods
Credit cards and some payment services offer dispute or chargeback options. Bank transfers, gift cards and crypto usually don't.
Research unfamiliar sellers
Look for independent reviews, a real address and clear return policies before buying from a shop you don't know.
Keep records
Save order confirmations, receipts, adverts and messages until the item arrives and works.
Act quickly on problems
Dispute windows are time-limited. Contact the seller, then your bank or card provider, as soon as something is wrong.
Know who to contact
Most countries have a consumer protection agency that takes complaints and publishes guidance.
Related scams
Fake online stores and listings
Deep discounts from a shop or seller that disappears once you've paid.
Warning signs and what to do
Payment ScamsOverpayment and refund scams
Someone 'accidentally' pays you too much and asks you to send the difference back.
Warning signs and what to do
Emerging ScamsFake QR codes
A sticker placed over a real QR code sends you to a fake payment page.
Warning signs and what to do
Related resources
FTC Consumer Advice
U.S. Federal Trade Commission
Plain-language articles on avoiding scams, shopping safely and protecting your identity.
(opens in a new tab)econsumer.gov
International Consumer Protection and Enforcement Network
Report international online fraud and cross-border scams. Run by consumer protection agencies from many countries.
Available in 9 languages
(opens in a new tab)How to report a scam
What to gather before you report and where to report in different countries.