How can consumers protect themselves from fraud?

Verifying the legitimacy of websites and businesses is crucial for consumers looking to protect themselves from fraud. In today’s digital age, many transactions take place online, where it can be easy for scammers to pose as legitimate companies. By doing thorough research—such as checking for secure website connections (https), reading reviews from other consumers, and confirming contact information—individuals can identify trustworthy businesses and avoid potential scams. This practice helps ensure that they are engaging with reputable sellers, thereby reducing the risk of becoming victims of fraud.

The other options do not effectively contribute to consumer protection against fraud. Ignoring product reviews can leave consumers without valuable insights into a product’s quality and the experiences of previous buyers, making it easier to fall for fraudulent offers. Purchasing only from friends, while potentially safer, severely limits consumer choices and may not always guarantee quality or reliability. Relying solely on advertisements can be misleading, as they may highlight only the positive aspects while omitting important information, leading to poor purchasing decisions. Therefore, verifying the legitimacy of websites and businesses remains the most effective method for safeguarding against fraud.