The budget retailer has warned customers to ‘be alert’
Home Bargains has raised a serious problem that could impact its online shoppers. It comes as some fall foul to online scammers.
In a statement on Facebook, a Home Bargains spokesperson said: “Please be aware that there are currently fraudulent websites using Home Bargains branding to advertise their products for sale. These websites are not affiliated with Home Bargains and we strongly recommend that you do not click on any links unless it is posted from this official account.
“Please do not share any of your personal details with these fraudulent website. If you have we recommend that you contact your bank and report it to Action Fraud.”
READ MORE: Home Bargains fans ‘so happy’ 99p item that ‘saves Christmas’ is back in stockREAD MORE: Home Bargains selling ‘brilliant’ anti-stress product worth £7 for only 35p
The post added a message reminding people that, whilst Home Bargains has a website, it can be common for scammers to try can copy its branding and gets as close to the real site as possible. It states that the authentic Home Bargains domain is bargains and does not contain ‘.com’ or ‘.co.uk’.
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and third parties based on our knowledge of you. More info
Online shoppers have been warned to be absolutely sure about any site before handing over money or personal details to scammers, reports the Mirror. The comment section on the Facebook post was quickly filled with people thankful to have been made aware.
Meg said: “Thank goodness I don’t buy anything online from anywhere. I would rather go without if I can’t get it in the shops.” Caitlin added: “Sounds like this is what happened with the Range too!” For the warning, customer Annie said: “Thank you.”
The post has been shared hundreds of times in a bid to raise awareness. People have also been posting the warning in a different Facebook groups to ensure more people have the important information.
How to report a scam if you think you’re a victim:
Online scams can be tricky to spot these days, with fraudsters becoming increasingly sophisticated and blending in seamlessly with legitimate stores. Action Fraud has provided a guide to assist those who find themselves targeted, as well as strategies to help people avoid falling victim to scammers in the first place.
Many fraudsters run bogus websites that either download viruses onto your computer or are designed to steal passwords or other personal information. The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has the authority to investigate and take down scam websites.
READ MORE: Home Bargains fans say they ‘might cry’ after store’s new announcementREAD MORE: Home Bargains’ £10 makeup case ‘just like’ £80 Debenhams version and ‘better than Temu’
Reporting a suspicious website to us is free and only takes a minute. By reporting dubious websites, you’re helping the authorities crack down on cyber criminals and protect others online.
You can report a website yourself or on behalf of someone else – such as an elderly relative or friend. The form to submit a report can be found here.