Top 10 Tips to Check Store Reviews and Reputation Before You Buy

Not all online stores are as reliable as they look. Before you click “Add to cart,” it’s worth taking a closer look at a seller’s reputation. Our Store Reviews & Reputation series shows you how to separate trustworthy shops from risky ones, so you can shop with confidence every time.

This page is the gateway to our top 10 essential guides, where each topic will be explored in depth:

• Finding authentic customer reviews on reputable platforms
• Recognizing fake or manipulated ratings
• Understanding seller scores and trust seals
• Checking store history, domain age and contact details
• Using independent watchdog and consumer protection sites
• Analyzing social media presence and community feedback
• Evaluating return and refund experiences shared by buyers
• Interpreting star ratings and review patterns correctly
• Spotting sponsored or incentivized reviews
• Combining multiple sources for a complete trust picture

Bookmark this hub and revisit as each detailed article is published. Together these guides will help you make informed, risk-free shopping decisions.