Scam Alert! More and more consumers are affected – be careful when buying online!

Scam Alert! More and more consumers are affected – be careful when buying online!

In recent weeks, the police have brought numerous cases to the public that illustrate the dangers of online shopping. Fraud cases involving online purchases, which primarily affect e-bike customers, attracted particular attention. The situation shows that it is important to look closely if you want to do a good deal online.

A 42-year-old man from Dessau-Roßlau recently filed a criminal complaint against an alleged service provider. He activated an account to track his cell phone and was then charged unnecessary fees of almost 50 euros, even though he canceled the contract on time. Strange that the money continues to be debited, because it is certain whether a chargeback via the bank is possible. This doesn't have to be the case! [sachsen-anhalt.de](https://www.sachsen-anhalt.de/bs/pressemitigungen/polizei?tx_tsarssinclude_pi1%5Baction%5D=single &tx_tsarssinclude_pi1%5Bcontroller%5D=Base&tx_tsarssinclude_pi1%5Buid%5D=602549&cHash=c0b27c06503156a05d19e1653eeeb292) reported various similar incidents.

Fraud in online trading

Another example is the case of a 69-year-old lady who bought a used piece of jewelry for 270 euros on September 13, 2025. After having doubts about its authenticity, she asked for a refund. But even after intensive inquiries, the money was not received until September 27, 2025. Understandably, she then also filed a complaint. Such scams are not isolated cases; Consumer advice centers are recording an increase in complaints about fake shops, which are particularly aimed at seasonal goods such as e-bikes chip.de.

On September 23, 2025, a 59-year-old lady noticed an unauthorized debit of almost 90 euros, which was initiated by a company she did not know. The police advise checking your account statements regularly and contacting the bank immediately if anything is unclear in order to protect yourself from further losses ndr.de.

Tips to avoid scams

So how can buyers protect themselves? Make sure that the online shops offer a complete legal notice and correct company details. Advance payment promotions should always be viewed with skepticism, as should unrealistically cheap offers. Particular caution is required when purchasing e-bikes. Tools such as the consumer advice center’s fake shop finder are also helpful in exposing fraudsters. Anyone browsing the Internet should also pay attention to reviews and testimonials from other buyers chip.de.

Another note: Do not use HTTPS as the sole security guarantee, as it only means that the connection is encrypted. Instead, consumers should also check the terms and conditions and return policies. If there is uncertainty, a call to a specified service hotline can help to distinguish genuine from false offers ndr.de.

If you have nevertheless fallen victim to a fake shop, you should immediately secure screenshots as evidence and request your money back from the bank. It is also advisable to report it to the police.

Stay vigilant when it comes to online purchases and enjoy the benefits of the digital market, but with a keen eye for security!