by Andi Miles · Host of Andicanhelp Live
We’ve all done it.
You’re scrolling through TikTok or Instagram, see a super cute product in a Reel or a shopping live, and before you know it, you’ve hit “buy now” without even thinking twice.
Social media has become the new mall.
But with that convenience comes a new level of risk.
Social commerce — buying directly through platforms like TikTok Shop, Instagram, or even Facebook Marketplace — is growing fast. Unfortunately, so are the scams, fake accounts, and shady checkout pages.
In this week’s episode of Andicanhelp Live, I’m breaking down what you need to know to shop smarter and safer, whether you’re an online shopper, a content creator, or someone who runs a small business through your socials.
🎧 Listen to the episode here
🚨 Why Social Commerce Is Risky (but Still Awesome)
Social platforms are designed to make things feel casual and trustworthy. If your favorite creator is wearing it, showing it off, or talking about it — it must be legit, right?
That’s the trap.
Here’s why social commerce can be riskier than traditional online shopping:
- Scammers can easily clone real brands or impersonate influencers
- Some shops don’t use secure checkout platforms
- You’re often buying in the moment with fewer details than you’d normally research
I’m not saying don’t shop this way — I do it too! But if we’re going to keep enjoying these convenient, creator-powered shopping experiences, we have to get smarter about how we engage with them.
🧠 3 Quick Safety Tips for Smarter Shopping
✅ 1. Verify the Account & Use In-App Checkout
Only buy from accounts you recognize, trust, or that are verified. When in doubt, stick to platforms that offer in-app checkout with buyer protection — like TikTok Shop or Instagram Checkout.
If someone moves the sale to DMs and asks for Venmo? 🚩 That’s a scam risk.
🚩 2. Look for Red Flags in the Content
Poor grammar, pixelated product images, or sketchy product claims are signs something’s off. A lot of scam accounts steal photos and videos from actual brands and then sell fake or nonexistent versions.
Pro tip: Reverse image search the product if you’re unsure. You’d be shocked how often it shows up on scam report threads.
🔍 3. Double-Check the Website URL
Scam sites often look official at first glance — like lululemon-clearance.shop or nike-discount.store.
Look for:
- Real domains (
.com, not.storeor.site) - HTTPS with a secure lock icon
- Clear return policies and contact info
If the website doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts.
💡 What to Do If You Get Scammed
If you think you’ve been tricked:
- Contact your bank or payment provider right away — especially if it was a credit card or PayPal.
- Save everything — screenshots of the ad, product page, messages, and receipts.
- Report it — to the platform (TikTok, Instagram), and also file a complaint at reportfraud.ftc.gov if you’re in the U.S.
✨ Bonus: Creators, Don’t Look Like a Scammer
If you’re a legit creator selling products, services, or merch through your social profiles — help your audience feel safe.
- Use verified checkout tools (like Shopify, Ko-fi, or TikTok Shop)
- Avoid asking for payments via DMs or untraceable platforms
- Clearly show your policies, links, and who you are
Your audience wants to support you — just make it easy for them to trust you first.
🎯 This Week’s Challenge:
Pick one small step to protect yourself or your community when it comes to online shopping.
💳 Maybe it’s using safer payment methods
🔐 Or reviewing your checkout process if you sell
🔎 Or just pausing before you click “buy now” on a random link
Share what you’re doing with the hashtag #AndicanhelpSafeShopper and I’ll be featuring some of your smart moves in next week’s episode!
🎙️ Listen to the full episode:
Shop Smart, Shop Safe — Avoiding Scams in the Age of Social Commerce
And if you’ve got your own scammy story (or a big online win), hit reply or join the convo in the Discord
Stay safe, stay smart — and keep supporting the people and products you believe in.
You’ve got this. And I’ve got your back. 💬
— Andi