Fake Online Store Shut down After Being Exposed – Here’s How to Protect Yourself

A fake online store mimicking a legitimate New Zealand business has been taken down after being exposed by 1News, but not before rebranding itself in an attempt to continue operating.The incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance when shopping online.

From Matakanaboutique to Canberra Muse: A Quick Change Scam

The initial fake store, operating under the name matakanaboutique.com, was discovered to be falsely using images and branding from Hope Johnson’s authentic business, Hope’s Home. 1News reported on the fraudulent website earlier this week,highlighting the deceptive practices.

Within 24 hours of the coverage, the matakanaboutique.com domain stopped displaying the fake store,and by friday evening it was redirecting to Canberra Muse,which billed itself as “brand built in and for” the australian capital city.

The Canberra Muse website uses the same layout, pricing, and stock clothing images as its predecessor, only its name, location and branding have changed. This quick rebranding suggests a purposeful attempt to evade detection and continue scamming unsuspecting customers.

Domain registration data showed it was purchased on August 8 and is hosted overseas. Its ownership details were not readily accessible, further obscuring the perpetrators behind the scheme.

Speaking to 1News today, Hope saeid the website changing was a “great result” for her business. “It’s still getting redirected, but hopefully that website will just go soon.” She emphasized the distress caused by the initial impersonation and the importance of raising awareness about these types of scams.

How to Spot a Fake E-Store: A Consumer Guide

The Commerce Commission has previously urged consumers to take extra care when shopping online, especially when dealing with unfamiliar websites. The rise in sophisticated online scams means shoppers need to be more discerning then ever.

Here’s a breakdown of how to protect yourself:

Do Your Research: Before making a purchase,the commission recommended researching the business by checking autonomous reviews and feedback on external platforms. Don’t just rely on what the website tells you about itself.

Beware of Selective Testimonials: “Don’t rely solely on testimonials displayed on the company’s own website,” a spokesperson said. “These can be selectively curated or even fabricated.” Look for reviews on trusted third-party sites.

Look for Clear Contact Information: Consumers were also encouraged to look for clear and accessible contact details, such as a local address and phone number. A legitimate business will readily provide this information.

Check Delivery, Returns & Security: “Legitimate online businesses typically provide transparent information about delivery, returns, and payment security,” the commission said. Scammers often avoid these details or make them challenging to find.

Red Flags to Watch Out For:

Vague or Missing Contact Information: If you can’t easily find out who you’re dealing with, that’s a major warning sign.
Overly Positive Reviews with No Detail: Generic, glowing reviews without specifics are often fake. Branding Mimicry: Be wary of websites that closely resemble established brands, especially if the URL is slightly different.
Unrealistic Deals: If a price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
* Pressure Tactics: Scammers may try to rush you into making a purchase.

“Taking a few minutes to verify a site before you buy can save you from being misled or losing money,” the commission added. Protecting yourself online requires a little extra effort, but it’s well worth it to avoid becoming a victim of fraud.