How to Shop Safely and Securely in Kenya- Giftway

Simple Tips on How to Shop Safely Online in Kenya – Giftway

Online shopping has become increasingly popular in Kenya, offering a wide variety of products and services at the click of a button. However, with this convenience comes the responsibility to shop safely and protect your personal and financial information from cyber threats and scams. Here are some practical tips to help you shop securely online in Kenya.

1. Shop on Trusted Platforms

Stick to well-known online stores or reputable e-commerce platforms. These stores typically have established reputations and have received customer reviews and ratings that can guide your decision. Always verify the seller’s credibility before making a purchase.

3. Secure Payment Methods

When shopping online, it’s essential to use secure payment methods. Trusted options like credit cards and mobile money services such as M-Pesa offer an added layer of protection against fraud. Avoid using direct bank transfers or cryptocurrencies, as they might not provide the same level of consumer protection.

4. Monitor Your Accounts

Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized or suspicious transactions. If you notice any discrepancies, report them immediately to your bank or payment service provider.

5. Be Cautious of Deals That Are Too Good to Be True

While the internet offers numerous deals, be wary of offers that seem too good to be true. Always research the seller and read reviews from other buyers to ensure the legitimacy of the offer.

6. Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Transactions

Public Wi-Fi networks are not secure, making it easier for hackers to intercept your data. If you must shop online while using public Wi-Fi, consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to safeguard your information.

7. Pay on Delivery When Possible

For first-time purchases, paying on delivery can offer peace of mind. This ensures that you receive the correct items before making a final payment.

8. Read the Terms and Conditions

Before committing to any online purchase, take a moment to read the website’s return and refund policies. Understand the terms to avoid misunderstandings, especially in the event that you want to return an item.

Safely Using M-Pesa for Online Shopping in Kenya

M-Pesa has become an essential tool for online shopping, providing a convenient and secure way to pay for goods and services. However, like any payment platform, it is important to follow safety precautions when using M-Pesa for online transactions.

1. Use M-Pesa GlobalPay

M-Pesa’s GlobalPay feature allows you to shop on many international platforms, by converting your M-Pesa balance into a virtual Visa card. Ensure that you follow secure steps within the M-Pesa app when using this service to protect your payment details.

2. Verify Payment Options

Ensure that M-Pesa is a recognized payment method on the website where you’re shopping. For instance, international e-commerce websites now support M-Pesa payments, allowing you to securely complete transactions by entering your M-Pesa PIN.

3. Be Wary of Unsolicited Requests

Never share your M-Pesa PIN or personal information with anyone, even if they claim to be from Safaricom or another legitimate entity. M-Pesa representatives will only contact you through official channels, like their official helpline or SMS notifications from verified numbers.

4. Monitor Your M-Pesa Transactions

Keep a close eye on your M-Pesa balance and transaction history. Use SMS confirmations to verify transactions, ensuring that all activities are legitimate and no unauthorized payments have been made.

5. Watch Out for Scams

There are various types of scams that may target M-Pesa users during online shopping. Always be cautious of phishing attempts, where scammers trick you into sharing your PIN or sensitive details via email or SMS. Also, be aware of fraudsters who may claim that a payment was mistakenly sent to you and ask for a refund, always verify your balance before acting.

At Giftway, we understand the value of your money, and that’s why we prioritize your safety. Follow these simple steps to safeguard your shopping experience and make the most of every purchase. Happy shopping!