with Declan Hardie · Impact 103
EPISODE 19 · APRIL 7, 2026
CyberSense Ep. 19 – Online Shopping Scams
with Declan Hardie
Fake stores and fraudulent sellers are everywhere. Here's how to protect your money.
🛍️ Full transcript: Safe Shopper Checklist
CYBER SENSE ALERT: How to Spot Online Shopping Scams in South Africa
Fake stores and fraudulent sellers are everywhere. Here's how to protect your money.
Your Safe Shopper Checklist
VERIFY THE SELLER
How old is their Facebook page? Do reviews look real? Check ratings on Bob Shop/Takealot.
PAY SAFELY
NO direct EFT or eWallet. Use PayFast, SnapScan, or credit card. Walk away if pressured.
IGNORE FALSE URGENCY
"50% off! Last chance!" is pressure. Take time to research.
DON'T PAY FOR "FREE"
"Free couch—just pay delivery" is a scam. Free means free.
TRUST YOUR GUT
Too good to be true? It is. No physical address? Walk away.
If You Get Scammed:
- 📞 Call your bank immediately.
- 📝 Report to the platform (Facebook, Bob Shop, etc.).
- 🚔 Open a case at SAPS.
- 📢 Warn your community—share the scam details.
Bottom Line: In South Africa, online shopping is safe when you verify first and pay safely.
— Declan Hardie, Impact 103