Online perfume fraud

Well-known fragrances are being advertised for sale on professional-looking websites at cheaper prices. However, consumers making purchases are reporting their designer-perfume is not being delivered or is counterfeit.

In some cases the company continues the fraud by approaching customers for more money claiming the original transaction has not been successful despite payment being taken.

Recent analysis of the NFIB has found 28 Action Fraud reports about perfume fraud, committed via a number of different websites.

NFIB Director, Det Supt Tony Crampton said:

“These fraudsters use every trick in the book to lure their victims online. They tout their wares via professional-looking, flashy sites, offering designer perfumes at tempting prices and then fill online forums with bogus reviews of their service.

“However, there can be ‘tell-tale’ signs that all is not as it seems. Customers should check the http address has ‘s’ at the end or that there is a small padlock in the browser window indicating it’s secure. Most fraudulent sites will not show either.”

Before you buy – Websites

• Only use websites that you can trust. Research the site first before making a purchase, checking through online forums for feedback from other customers.
• Consider using website checking tools promoted by Trading Standards such as ‘Howard the Shopping Assistant’.
  Ask yourself, does the company have a real-world presence? Can you see their address and phone number? Is it a valid phone number registered in the UK?
• Be wary that fake websites may in fact be a duplicate of a genuine website. Do not access a site from a link in an unsolicited email.  Always access the site by typing the address into your web browser.

Paying for goods online

• Consider purchasing by credit card. If the goods or services cost over £100 and you use a credit card, you may be protected by the Consumer Credit Act.
• Ensure that the web address of the page starts https:// before entering any payment or personal information. Also check that a small padlock appears in the browser window indicating the site is secure.
• Keep your PC protected with the latest operating system, firewall, browser and up-to-date anti-virus software installed. For further information visit the ‘Be Card Smart website’.

Find out more about Fraud and fraud alerts