There are many ways to tell if a website is a genuine website offering real goods and services. Often, it’s simply a feeling that things look right and other times the opposite – an overwhelming sensation that it’s a rip-off.
Here are some of the tell-tale signs that we recommend watching out for to tell if a website is legit.
1. A security certificate is present
Pretty much ever browser by now has incorporated the green ‘verified company’ and the padlock signage in their address field. That means that either before or after the website address, the site will have purchased a security certificate, indicating that they are a legitimate business.
However, this is further complicated by the fact that a site can purchase the certificate, yet still deliver unsafe content or be outright a scam. So, just be aware and watchful, and check for further signs.
2. High-quality content
While browsing on the site, you have to note if the content that’s present is well researched and well written. A good way to spot a spammy or a scammy site is their language and grammar – mistakes that are plentiful would mean we think twice about sending a website our payment details.
Of course, mistakes do happen but when they’re very obvious, e.g. in the call to action buttons, banners and main menus, then there really should be cause for concern.
3. A clearly outlined privacy policy
A quick scroll to the bottom of the site should reveal the privacy policy of the website. It’s now a must-have for all businesses that are serving European clients.
If a business is serious about complying with the legal requirements of the European Union, they will have a privacy policy where it clearly says how they collect and use the data of the visitors.
It doesn’t matter if it’s small Danish sites like Tempest or huge British ones like the BBC, every website must have a privacy policy. Otherwise – no game.
4. A quick way to contact the business
Another good sign is if there is a quick and easy way to contact the direct business owners. If there is just a web form present with no further details, we’d exercise caution. Heaven’s know where that form is sent and if there’d ever be a person reading your message.
Ideally, there’d be multiple ways to get in touch, such as telephone, email and even social media channels. Just think if you run into issues with the delivery of the goods or the running of the services. You’d get very frustrated trying to solve anything via a web contact form.
5. Check for customer reviews online
If they’re running a business online, they will care about satisfying their customers, which will in turn write good reviews online. This will attract future clients so they should really be interested in providing a top-notch service.
Checking for customer reviews on the web is definitely something you should do as part of evaluating if a site is legitimate. Reports of losing money, faulty goods, undeliverable services and similar issues all point to an online scam.
Giving a previously unknown online business your personal and financial details should only be done if you’re 110% sure the website is legitimate. Check for the aforementioned five signs and you should be well underway to having a pleasant online shopping experience.