E-commerce, popularly called e-commercesimply means the trading of products or services over the Internet. Recently, e-commerce usage in Kenya has seen a wide range of increases. So it will be fair to say that it is actually trending and admirable in Kenya. With more and more companies seeing double-digit growth and revenue growth in their very first year, you can rightly claim that distribution in Kenya is going digital. This has prompted most retailers and brands to set up virtual shops on some e-commerce company websites to bridge the huge gap between offline and online and maximize sales. Despite the widespread adoption of e-commerce in Kenya, many still find it very uncomfortable to shop online. In fact, they feel insecure when trading online. That’s why we’re giving you 10 tips to help you shop safely online. We hope you don’t have to be afraid anymore.
So enjoy online shopping
Do not click links from spam emails to make purchases
It is completely absurd to click on an email that was sent by an unknown person and make a purchase on its landing page. Make sure you know at least a little bit about the retailer’s website, then type in the search terms for yourself, e.g. Jumia, Kaymu to name a few.
Make sure you create a unique/strong password for the online account
When asked to create an account with one of the, try as much as possible to create a strong and unique password. Simple passwords like 1111, 2222, 1234 or using name and the like should be avoided completely.
Avoid giving out too much information
If you must have completed creating an account with an e-commerce business, you should assume that you will provide the same information in future purchases or transactions, e.g. Telephone number, e-mail address, delivery address, method of payment. If you receive conflicting questions or suspicious information such as bank account details, driver’s license numbers, spouse or family member details, act as soon as possible.
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Do not participate in “extremely good offers”.
If a particular site has extremely good or pleasant offers, such as extremely low prices, you are right to be suspicious. That’s not to say that most ecommerce sites don’t offer incredible discounts during mega sale/flash sale. However, pay attention to the timing and products as this is only possible for a limited number of products and also within a certain time. You can also look for discount coupon codes that can significantly reduce your purchase price.
Note the company’s shipping, warranty and return policies
Don’t be too quick to get excited when they charge much less for shipping. Make sure the shipping cost a company calculates is reasonable for the product you are buying and the distance. The return and exchange policy should at least be flexible enough and have a notice period of at least 7 days. Also, make sure the warranty terms are reasonable and reasonable.
Use the best anti-malware program on your computer
Don’t forget to use the best anti-malware programs and virus signatures that are always updated. Also make sure your firewall is on if you’re using a public wireless network, and that your own wireless network is password-encrypted to prevent anyone else from collecting even the slightest bit of information.
Use a reputable payment method to pay for products
While some genuine ecommerce sites offer cash on delivery payment method within a specific geographic location. If you are outside of the specified regions, use payment methods that you require as proof of payment, e.g. B. Mobile money transfer and credit cards.
Protect your credit card and debit card details
Typically, a credit card will allow a certain spending limit, while your debit card – which is linked to your bank account – doesn’t offer the same. Of course, it’s no wonder that if your credit card financial information is stolen, your money is still very much intact at the bank, but on the contrary, most debit cards don’t offer this benefit. So be careful when giving out your debit card details.
Make sure you keep all records of your purchase. You can print or save a copy of your orders
It’s a pretty smart practice to keep a record of your online purchases – possibly a record of all your purchases. If you deal with the correct site, you will receive a confirmation email with the order number. Just make sure to print, take a screenshot and save until you can get your hands on the product you ordered. And if the product fails or the item is not shipped within 10 days without notice, please don’t give in.
Download shopping apps made by trusted developers
Always read reviews on your smartphone or tablet. Of course, for convenience, many of the major online retailers in Kenya have developed apps that allow you to shop amazingly and compare prices. Avoid downloading rogue apps and make sure you get mobile anti-malware for viruses and spyware.
Shop from reputable online retailers
Finally, make sure that online stores know their physical addresses, to say the least. Yes, as such, the most you can do is trek to their office if there is a problem to be solved. Also find out if people have used it, how they rate it and if any of your friends have tried it in the past.
If they assure you it’s safe, then use it. However, if they are new, you can do your own research by going through their site’s reviews as well. Customer complaints on social media sites are also possible. What if you don’t see any? Please don’t use it yet. Wait until you get concrete information about it.