How to spot a fraudulent website

How to Spot a Fraudulent Website

By ComplexClear 

The internet has transformed nearly every aspect of daily life—how we shop, bank, and communicate. But with that transformation comes increased vulnerability. Cybercriminals are continually devising fake websites that mimic legitimate brands with alarming precision. Whether you’re entering personal credentials or making online purchases, being able to identify fraudulent websites is an essential skill.

Here’s how to verify a site’s authenticity and protect yourself online:

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1. Scrutinize the URL

Fraudulent websites often rely on subtle misspellings or character swaps in familiar domain names—replacing an “o” with a “0,” or switching ".com" to ".net" or ".org." These minor changes can be hard to detect, especially when you're in a rush.

Best practice:

Always type URLs directly into your browser and hover over any hyperlinks before clicking. Avoid sites that look even slightly suspicious or unfamiliar.

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2. Verify the Site Seal

A legitimate site seal—such as the DigiCert Secured badge—is interactive and provides verifiable information about the website’s security and certificate issuer.

Red flags:

If clicking the seal does nothing or redirects to a suspicious page, it may be fake. Cybercriminals often copy trusted seals to create a false sense of security. When in doubt, cross-check with the domain and certificate info.

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3. Inspect Security Certificates

Websites use TLS/SSL certificates to encrypt data in transit. Understanding the type of certificate a site uses can provide insight into its legitimacy:

DV (Domain Validation): Confirms domain ownership only. Minimal validation.

OV (Organization Validation): Verifies the organization behind the site.

EV (Extended Validation): Highest level of verification, including legal and operational checks.

Pro tip:

Click the padlock icon next to the URL in your browser to view certificate details and the verified organization name, especially on sites handling payments or sensitive information.

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4. Check the Security Status Icon

Modern browsers indicate website security via icons near the address bar:

Padlock icon: Secure connection (HTTPS). Click for certificate info.

Info icon ("i"): Incomplete security; avoid entering sensitive data.

Triangle with exclamation: Not secure (HTTP). Do not proceed.

"Not Secure" label or red padlock: Actively unsafe. Exit immediately.

Remember: A padlock means encryption—but not necessarily legitimacy. Always verify the organization behind it.

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5. Use a Website Checker

If unsure, run the site’s URL through a website checker like Google Safe Browsing. These tools scan for malware, phishing activity, and known vulnerabilities.

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6. Look for Additional Trust Signals

Legitimate businesses typically include:

A detailed privacy policy

A return policy

Valid contact details (phone, address)

Proper spelling and grammar

Third-party reviews

If these elements are missing—or if something feels “off”—treat the site with caution. Trust your instincts.

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7. When in Doubt, Don’t Enter Personal Information

Never input passwords, credit card numbers, or personal identifiers on a suspicious site. If you suspect fraud, report the site to platforms like Google Safe Browsing to help protect others.

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Stay Informed

As cyber threats evolve, staying educated is your best defense. Subscribe to the DigiCert Blog for ongoing insights into TLS/SSL, digital trust, and cybersecurity best practices.