Online shopping is here to stay
E-commerce is transforming the way Ghanaians shop, offering convenience and creating new opportunities for businesses.
With smartphones becoming more affordable, internet access improving, and mobile money services such as MTN MoMo, Telecel Cash, and AT Money gaining popularity, online shopping has grown rapidly across the country.
Consumers can now purchase everything from electronics and fashion to groceries and household essentials, all without stepping into a physical store.
While this digital shift brings convenience, it also carries risks. Fraudsters are increasingly targeting unsuspecting shoppers through scams such as phishing, where fake emails, websites, or adverts trick people into revealing sensitive information like card numbers or passwords.
These scams often mimic trusted brands like Amazon or Alibaba, making them appear legitimate.
To stay safe, shoppers need to remain vigilant. Fake online shops and flashy adverts, especially on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Telegram, are common traps. It is important to check whether a shop is verified or widely known. On Instagram, for instance, frequent changes in a shop’s name should raise suspicion.
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Doing background research on a shopping site before making a purchase can save you from disappointment. If unsure, recommendations from friends or family can provide peace of mind.
Payment methods also require caution. Whenever possible, opt for payment on delivery rather than sending money upfront. If a shop insists on advance payment, only proceed if it is reputable, recommended, or easily traceable online. First-time buyers can even visit the shop physically if a pinned location is available, and once trust is established, consider prepayment for future purchases.
Shoppers should also be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. Suspicious offers or freebies shared via email or social media often conceal malicious links that can compromise your device. Avoid clicking on such links, no matter how appealing they appear.
Online shopping is here to stay, and with mobile money and digital platforms making transactions easier, it is a powerful tool for both consumers and businesses. But safety must always come first.
By staying alert and exercising caution, you can enjoy the convenience of e-commerce without falling victim to scams.
SA/MA
