Is it safe to shop online?
Yes, online shopping is safe when you use well-known, trusted stores. Look for the padlock symbol in your browser's address bar and an address that starts with 'https://' — this means the connection is encrypted. Stick to stores you recognise or that have been recommended by someone you trust. Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true — fake shops often lure buyers with impossibly low prices. Use your credit card rather than a debit card when possible, as credit cards have better fraud protection. Apple Pay on your iPad or iPhone adds an extra layer of security because it never shares your real card number with the store.
What to do
- Check for the padlock icon and 'https://' in the address bar before entering payment details.
- Stick to well-known stores — Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, Canadian Tire, and other major Canadian retailers.
- If a deal seems too good to be true, search the store name plus 'reviews' or 'scam' before buying.
- Use a credit card or Apple Pay for better fraud protection.
- Check your credit card statement after purchases to spot any unfamiliar charges.
- Keep a record of order confirmation numbers and receipts.
The 3-Second Rule
If a price seems impossibly low — say, a $2,000 television for $200 — it is almost certainly a scam. Trust your instincts.
Important Warning
Never enter your banking details on a website that does not have the padlock icon. Always check the address bar before paying.
Learn More
Go deeper with our full lesson: Module 6: Banking & Transactions.