Fake-Shops Detection Test November 2024
AV-Comparatives has conducted a new comprehensive evaluation of 37 cybersecurity solutions to assess their effectiveness in detecting fake webshops, a growing threat in online commerce. The test report can be found here: https://www.av-comparatives.org/tests/fake-shops-detection-test-november-2024/
AV-Comparatives Reveals How to Outsmart Digital Fraudsters this Holiday Season – Cybersecurity Shopping Protection, a Fake-Shop Detection Test
AV-Comparatives, the leading independent cybersecurity testing organization, has released a report on fraudulent online shop / fakeshop detection, revealing cybersecurity products’ ability to protect consumers during the holiday shopping season.
Holiday Shopping Risks
With online shopping at an all-time high, consumers face increasing threats from sophisticated fake websites designed to scam users. Besides the critical threat of data theft, an equally concerning risk is the potential to make purchases under the pretence of genuine transactions, only to find that ordered goods are never delivered. The study tested 38 cybersecurity solutions against over 500 fake shop URLs.
“Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, often using stolen logos, manipulated reviews, and expired domains with good Google reputations to create seemingly legitimate online shops,” said the security researcher Stefan Haselwanter at AV-Comparatives.
Key Findings
- Only a small number of tested cybersecurity products offer robust protection against fake online shops
- Top-performing products include Avast, AVG, Fake-Shop Detector, McAfee, NordVPN, Norton, and Webroot
- Fake shops often have an online lifespan of only a few weeks or months
Staying Safe on the Internet: Your Ultimate Online Shopping Protection Strategy
Protecting yourself online requires a multi-layered approach that combines technological tools with personal vigilance. When browsing online stores, always verify the website’s authenticity by carefully examining the reputation and correctness of the web address. Legitimate websites typically have consistent branding, clear contact information and policies, and professional design. Be extremely cautious of websites with numerous spelling errors, low-quality images, or URLs that slightly misspell well-known brand names.
When a deal seems too good to be true, it’s a glaring red flag that you might be dealing with a fraudulent website designed to steal your money or personal information, e.g., if an online store offers luxury goods like designer handbags, high-end electronics, or premium brand clothing at 70-90% off their typical market price.
Check your financial statements regularly and set up transaction alerts with your bank. Many financial institutions offer real-time notifications for online purchases, allowing you to quickly identify and report any suspicious activity. The faster you detect potential fraud, the easier it becomes to protect yourself and minimize potential financial damage.
Products included in the test:
Dedicated Solutions: Fake-Shop Detector, Netcraft Extension, ScamAdviser, Trusted Shops Extension, WOT: Website Security & Safety Checker.
Non-dedicated Solutions: Adaware Privacy Standard, Avast Premium Security, AVG Internet Security, Avira Internet Security, Bitdefender Total Security, Comodo Internet Security Pro, Dr.Web Security Space, Emsisoft Anti-Malware Home, eScan Total Security Suite, ESET Home Security Essential, F-Secure Total, G Data Total Security, Google Chrome, K7 Total Security, Kaspersky Standard, Malwarebytes Premium, McAfee Total Protection, MetaCert Internet Security, Microsoft Defender Browser Protection, NordVPN Threat Protection Pro, Norton 360 Deluxe, Norton Ultra VPN, Panda Dome Essential, Quick Heal Internet Security, SafeDNS Home, Sophos Home Premium, Total Defense Premium Internet Security, TotalAV Antivirus Pro, Trend Micro Internet Security, VIPRE Advanced Security, Webroot Internet Security Plus, ZoneAlarm Extreme Security NextGen.
The full detailed report is available on the AV-Comparatives website.
