General: So-called fake shops on the Internet will continue to be a big problem in 2024. Apparently reputable sites offer strong prices with the intention of encouraging visitors to order - without ever having the intention of actually delivering bikes. In this article we will explain how to spot fraudulent online stores and what steps you can take to protect yourself from them.
The Internet has revolutionized the shopping process in many ways, allowing consumers to purchase products from the comfort of their own homes. However, this convenience has also opened the door for fraudulent activities. In the recent past, it has been particularly so-called fake shops that have worried the authorities.
What are fake shops?
Fake shops are false online shops that present themselves as legitimate in order to defraud unsuspecting consumers. They are particularly problematic in the bicycle sector because bicycles and e-bikes are expensive investments and the temptation to get a perceived bargain is great. These fraudulent websites often offer products at unbeatable prices, lure customers and then steal their payment information or deliver low-quality goods or no goods at all.
Especially in the current market situation, such shops are even more difficult to recognize than before, as regular retailers often offer very high discounts.
How do you recognize fraudulent bicycle online shops?
While there isn't one clear sign that will expose fraudulent online stores, there are some signs that should ring alarm bells. You should definitely avoid ordering, especially if there are several of them available.
- Unusually low prices: If an offer seems too good to be true, you should be suspicious. A comparison with other retailers helps here to better estimate the amount of the discount.
- Missing contact information: Reputable online stores always have clear contact information, such as a physical address and a valid phone number. This also includes a complete legal notice and detailed terms and conditions. If this information is missing on the website, stay away!
- Missing customer reviews or reviews without content: If there are no reviews or the existing reviews are overly positive and without detailed comments, this could be a sign of a fake shop.
- Unsafe payment methods: You should avoid websites that only accept unsecured payment methods such as advance payment. Reputable retailers offer secure payment options such as credit cards or PayPal. PayPal in particular offers a high level of security through buyer protection.
- Missing SSL encryption: A missing SSL encryption can also indicate a fake shop. This is usually indicated by an “https://” in the URL and a lock icon in the browser. You should not enter any personal information without these security features.
- Bicycles and e-bikes from direct shippers on offer: Many fake shops for bicycles and e-bikes offer bikes from popular direct sellers (e.g. Canyon, Radon or Rose). That's a clear sign, after all, these are only sold directly through the manufacturers (with the exception of used bikes).
How can you protect yourself from bicycle fake shops?
- Research: You can usually find out fairly quickly whether an online shop is “real” by doing your own research. Here it helps to take a look at rating portals like Trusted shops But even a simple Google search for “‘shop name’ experiences” can provide information. Also the Consumer advice center offers a tool, which can help identify fake shops.
- Website review: It helps to look at more than just one product page before ordering. Inconsistencies often become apparent when you spend a few minutes clicking through the categories and other subpages.
- Payment security: You should only use unsafe payment methods such as advance payment if you are 100% sure that the shop is genuine. You should also exercise caution when entering credit card information.
- Report suspicious websites: If you come across a fake shop, you should report it to the local authorities and/or consumer protection organizations in order to help other potential victims.
Such fake shops will probably only disappear from the scene when no one orders from them anymore. In this respect, everyone can do their part to gradually get rid of such fraudsters. Until then, you should always remain vigilant when buying online and keep the above precautionary measures in mind.
Further information on the subject of fake shops on the Internet
Information from the consumer advice center
Fake shop scanner from Trustedshops
Information from the federal government