The internet has made it easier than ever before to shop for jewelry, coins and other antiques. However, there is a dark side to this phenomenon. The internet has also made it easier for duplicitous individuals and organizations to setup fake websites which are used to scam the unsuspecting. Below are some things to be aware when shopping for jewelry or coins online.

Make Sure The Website You’re Visiting Is Authentic

One technique that scammers use is to create a fake website which superficially resembles an authentic jewelry site. It will have a similar domain name and interface, but upon closer inspection one will notice that many of these fake websites have grammar errors and poor English. Even if you do receive the items that you purchase on such sites (unlikely in many cases), the merchandise that arrives will be knock off products from China, as opposed to the genuine article. Always make sure the website you’re visiting is authentic by either typing the correct URL directly into the search box in your browser and or bookmarking it.

Be Suspicious Of Domains That Have Been Registered Recently

Another red flag to watch for on a coin or jewelry site is a domain that has been recently registered. This could just mean that a brick and mortar jewelry shop has just launched their first website, or it could be a fraudulent site designed to con the unsuspecting. To find out, do research on the domain name and find out if it is linked to a physical shop with an actual address and phone number. If so then this means it is likely legitimate. Otherwise avoid it.

Avoid Websites That Won’t Allow You To Use A Debit Or Credit Card

Any online dealer who will only accept payment through Bit Coin, Western Union or wire transfer should be regarded with suspicion. Scammers know that when customers use a credit card to buy things online they have recourse and can call their bank to dispute the charges in the event of a problem. While there is nothing inherently wrong with other payment options, they are final once the money is transferred and if you’re scammed you’re out of luck.

Nonexistent Or Vague Refund Policy

A reputable coin or jewelry dealer will have a clear refund policy in the event you decide to return the merchandise. Fraudulent dealers, however, will often not have a refund policy, or if they do it will be vague or confusing. If there doesn’t appear to be a refund policy, contact the company and inquire about it, and if you don’t like the response, that should be your cue to shop someplace else.

Bad Or Nonexistent Reviews

The jewelry and coin business is extremely lucrative, and a single transaction can involve thousands of dollars. Therefore, you should only shop with dealers that have excellent reviews. Those that have poor reviews, or none at all, should be avoided. If a dealer is reputable it won’t take long for word to spread, and the same is true if they aren’t.