Be vigilant about credibility when shopping online, province says

By Medicine Hat News on December 16, 2025.

asmith@medicinehatnews.com

The province of Alberta shared some advice for those doing any last-minute holiday shopping online.

“Online shopping exposes shoppers to privacy and security risks,” a release states. “Businesses may request details like your date of birth or Social Insurance Number for identification, but the more that is shared, the greater the exposure to potential fraud.”

Residents are advised to check for privacy policy, as reputable companies will have theirs posted somewhere. They should also look for “https://” in the address and a lock or key icon in your browser to ensure a safe connection and display seals like WebTrust or TRUSTe, indicating they meet privacy and security standards.

Following any purchase, monitoring credit statements for any unauthorized charges is also recommended. Save copies of forms, receipts and emails related to purchases, as these documents are vital if you need to dispute a transaction.

Common warning signs of scams include hidden addresses or anonymous contact details, vague claims like “thousands of satisfied customers” without proof, promises of instant wealth or valuable prizes for minimal purchases, or insistence that it is not a scam.

Consumers can report suspected unfair practices to the Report-a-Ripoff line at 1-877-427-4088 or file a consumer complaint online at: http://www.alberta.ca/file-consumer-complaint.aspx.

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