- Online shopping is just one swipe and click away on your phone or laptop, devices that you use daily.
- It is no wonder why many Kenyans whether working from home or just indoors have turned to this.
Online shopping is one of the fastest and most preferred means to purchase goods due to its convenience.
It is just one swipe and click away on your phone or laptop, devices that you use daily.
It is no wonder why many Kenyans whether working from home or just indoors have turned to this.
According to Kenya Media Research by Radio Africa, 26 per cent of Kenyans living in big towns and cities shopped online between June 11 and June 29, 2023.
However, it's not always smooth sailing, especially with the rising number of scammers online.
A recent story that has brought a buzz on scamming experiences online was the chapati incident on X Friday.
Highest Favor bought chapati online at a higher price and didn't receive the goods.
"In 2022, I asked for caterers on Christmas Eve to deliver chapati and samosas for Christmas after getting an online seller and placing my order and waiting for delivery at 7pm, the seller went silent on me," the Highest For said.
"I tried again this year online shopping after taking a break last year and found a seller for chapatis who sold at Sh70, ordered and paid 2 days prior but on the delivery day she didn't respond."
Reacting to her case, a section of Kenyans said she erred by paying for goods before delivery.
"Anyway, jokes on you for buying a chapati for Sh70 bob and mama Otis cooks 1 for Sh15. Plus whenever you see a business insisting on paying before delivery, first red flag," Ole pundit tweeted.
"I knew there was something wrong with her. In Nairobi don't pay for something you've not seen. Kwani when are you guys learning? And how do you buy chapati moja 70bob, online?"
To avert such experiences, here are a few tips to ensure your online shopping is safer and financially worthwhile.
Shop ratings and reviews
A highly rated shop or a social media page with a large following is preferred as this means the services are somewhat satisfactory.
Also, reputable companies are recommended as they have been tested and tried for longer years.
Research
Just like physical shopping, you have to walk through various shops weighing prices and offers, the same is needed online. Ensure you about research different stores and equipment for variety and counter-check market prices.
Counter-check enticing offers
When the deal seems too good, think twice. Don't be quick to purchase at a shop that seems to have cheap prices. Some scam shops offer cheap prices as bait but then claim the goods are out of stock or resell a knockoff item.
Pay on delivery
Is it your first time shopping at the online store? The safe option could be paying on delivery. As much as most companies require payment ahead, genuine companies always have options to pay on delivery. This enables you to counter-check that the order placed is accurate, especially for food services.
Terms and conditions
Can the goods be returned in case of a defect? Do the goods have a warranty? Most goods always have a warranty period to insure one for repairs during the specified period. These mostly apply to electronics and appliances.