Is my recent online purchase a scam or a server error?

[lover061206]

Hi, I have some decent experiences with shopify but this time it feels off. A few days ago I ordered some items off of duh.Store which was a store that used shopify to create the shop, I ordered items off of it but now that I check it it has been removed or currently unavailable. I just want to know if this is a server side error or did the shop get taken down. Would also be great to know if the store was indeed a scam is there a way for me to get the money back? 

[jefflhlow]

Hi @lover061206 , If the store is a scam or not, it had nothing to do with Shopify but more of the store owner. Fraud on Shopify certainly isn't a rare problem, as there are consumers getting scammed by these fake stores. The great thing about having Shopify platform is that your transaction details is safe from these scammer as minimal information is shared to the store owner. Also you can report these scammer to Shopify and they will take it down for you after investigation.

Report a scam or violation: https://www.shopify.com/legal/report-aup-violation

[lover061206]

I know that shopify is a legit and trustworthy site but what are the reasons that shops usually get taken down? The store that I ordered from is currently down and I'm just wondering if that is a common thing. I just checked but the site is now permanently gone instead of just temporarily.

[jefflhlow]

Hi @lover061206 ,

If it taken down means Shopify team had receive the complaint and taken action against the store owner or perhaps the owner felt that the scam had successful met his objective and shut it down. 

Scam is something we can't predict, just like banks! They allow anyone with identification to open a bank account even a legit fake ones. Once the scammer had complete their purpose, they will keep on creating new accounts and move on to next target. As a consumer, we need to trust that this store is genuine and they able to deliver their promises. If all failed, a police report would do justice.

[KissOfKarma]

To further understand your response and my duties and responsibilities as a consumer of a shopify store.  Shopify, if I am not mistaken, does not perform due diligence or screening of store owners who establish and set-up a shopify store.  Next, as a consumer when dealing with a shopify store owner I would need to establish the store owner's reputation, legitimacy, essentially perform my own due diligence if an item is price as too good to be true.  

[jefflhlow]

Absolutely right! This isn't just about online stores; even brick-and-mortar shops can go under anytime, like RadioShack, Tower Records, and Macy's. It's just business. Here are a few things to keep in mind to avoid scams:

• Verify the Website/URL (Shopify helps with this).
• Check the Company's Name & Registration Info.
• Be wary of extremely low prices.
• Look for limited contact details.
• Read the returns policy—complex or nonexistent ones are a red flag.
• Use reliable payment options (credit cards are best for fraud reporting).
• Watch for bad social media reviews.
• Use unique passwords for member registration and limit sharing personal info.

Hope this helps! Stay vigilant!

[eComInsider]

Hi Lover061206, 

There might be few reason Shopify store is taken down by Shopify. Here are some common reasons:

1. Violation of Terms of Service: If a store violates Shopify's terms of service, it may be taken down. This could include selling prohibited items or engaging in fraudulent activities.

2. Intellectual Property Infringement: Selling counterfeit goods or infringing on trademarks and copyrights can lead to a store being shut down.

3. Payment Fraud: Engaging in fraudulent payment activities or chargebacks can result in Shopify taking action against the store.

4. Security Concerns: If a store is compromised or poses a security risk, Shopify might take it down to protect customers and data.

5. Legal Issues: Legal actions or disputes involving the store or its products can lead to temporary or permanent closure.

6. Non-compliance with Regulations: Failing to comply with local laws and regulations, such as tax laws or consumer protection laws, can result in a store being taken down.

If a store owner believes their store was taken down in error, they should contact Shopify support to resolve the issue.

[Riaz033]

 hi I recently joined a shopify online mall is this a scam or legit and how do I tell