The internet has revolutionized shopping, making it easier than ever to purchase everything we need, including hair products. Gone are the days when we were limited to our local beauty stores or relying on our stylists for exclusive hair bundle deals.
Thanks to social media and Google, we now have endless options to shop online for longer bundles at competitive prices. However, with more choices comes more responsibility, and unfortunately, more chances of falling victim to scams.
Don’t let companies take advantage of you. Make sure you’re buying from trusted sources that fulfill their obligations to you as a consumer.
Be Smart, Avoid Scams: Do Your Research
Check Reviews on Social Media
Social media is one of the best places to find authentic reviews before making an online purchase. Browse through photos, comments, and posts to see what real customers are saying about the brand and their products.
Take your research a step further by searching the company’s hashtags or checking out what others have posted on their own pages. This can give you a broader sense of the company’s reputation and customer experiences.
I’ll never forget the time I commented on a company’s “Sale Going Now” post, asking about my hair order, and was blocked just minutes later. A few weeks later, I shared my experience online and tagged the company. To my surprise, I quickly received messages from many others who had encountered the same issue. This just goes to show how important it is to dig deeper and listen to others’ experiences before committing to a purchase.
Ask Others Who’ve Purchased From Them
A major mistake many people make when shopping online is assuming that a company is trustworthy simply because it has a large following on Instagram or other social platforms.
Instead of relying solely on the number of followers, dig deeper into the company’s reputation. Reach out to people in your network – friends, family, or acquaintances – to ask if they’ve bought from this company or know anyone who has. Personal experiences and recommendations remain one of the most dependable ways to gauge a business’s credibility.
At HazuHair, we believe in transparency and trust, which is why we regularly post Instagram Stories offering a glimpse into our office and sharing customer photos and testimonials. This helps potential buyers feel confident about our products and services. Ultimately, word of mouth continues to be one of the most reliable ways to learn about a brand.
Visit the Store in Person
After researching reviews and checking out their social media, the final step is to visit the store in person.
Many hair companies offer better deals and exclusive products at their physical locations that you won’t find on their website. When you visit, you can feel the hair, check its quality, and ensure it meets your standards. This gives you a much clearer idea of what you’re buying, especially when it comes to human hair bundles.
Another benefit of shopping in-store is avoiding shipping costs. You can walk out with your hair that very day, saving both time and money. Plus, you’ll have the chance to ask the staff any questions you might have about the products, which is not always possible when shopping online.
If you’re unsure about ordering online, visiting the storefront is the perfect way to make sure you’re making a confident, informed purchase.
What Should You Receive After Completing a Purchase?
Receipt
Whether you’re shopping online or buying in person from a stylist, always ensure you receive a receipt, either physical or emailed. A receipt serves as proof of your transaction, detailing the date, time, and items you’ve purchased.
While it may seem obvious, many people forget to ask for one, especially with online orders or informal purchases. However, having a receipt is crucial for tracking your purchases and resolving any future issues, such as returns, exchanges, or warranty claims.
In some cases, you may even need it for legal purposes or to resolve disputes. For peace of mind, always request a receipt to ensure you have documentation of your purchase when needed.
See more: Payment method of HazuHair
Email/Text Confirmation
After placing an online order or picking up in person, you should expect to receive a confirmation email or text from the company. This message often serves as a thank-you note for your purchase, provides helpful tips on caring for your hair, or reassures you that the product meets quality standards.
Receiving a follow-up communication, whether by email or text, is a positive indicator that the business values its customers and is committed to maintaining high standards for its products. It shows that they take their customer service seriously and want to ensure your satisfaction with your purchase.
This simple but effective form of communication enhances the overall shopping experience, providing reassurance and fostering trust between the customer and the company. If a company follows up with such messages, it’s a good sign that they are professional and dedicated to supporting their customers even after the transaction is complete.
Tracking Numbers and Confirmation
Once you place an online order, you should receive a confirmation email along with a tracking number either immediately or within one to three business days. This tracking number allows you to monitor your shipment from dispatch until it arrives, providing peace of mind and protection for your investment in case of any disputes or delivery delays.
I recently encountered an issue where I ordered a glueless wig but never received it due to a mistake by the Post Office. Without proper tracking, I could have lost the entire purchase. Thankfully, I had purchased insurance that covered up to fifty dollars. Moreover, with proof of the delivery delay, I was able to secure a full refund for the undelivered wig.
This experience highlighted the importance of shopping wisely. Always ensure that your orders are traceable, and consider investing in insurance for added security. It’s a smart way to safeguard your purchases.
What Are the Different Ways I Can Get Scammed?
Never Receiving the Hair or Constantly Changing Dates
One of the worst things that can happen when purchasing hair is not receiving it at all. You’ve placed your order, eagerly anticipated your new look, but the product never arrives!
Even worse, your shipping dates may be continually changed, with your two-day shipping turning into an agonizing three-week wait! To avoid this, make sure you obtain a contact number, receipts, and tracking information for your order.
When ordering online, it’s important to understand the difference between processing and shipping times. Many hair websites list both, and while you might expect two-day shipping, processing or creation times can take anywhere from three to fourteen business days. Keep in mind that weekends and holidays may not be included in those timelines. Always double-check and confirm the expected delivery dates before completing your purchase.
The Product Is Always “Sold Out”
A red flag to watch out for is when, after you’ve made your payment, you receive multiple notifications that the product is “sold out,” but there’s no mention of a refund or store credit option.
This is a common tactic used by scammers. They create the illusion of trying to resolve the issue by providing updates, but in reality, they are not taking any real steps to fulfill your order or deliver the hair extensions you paid for.
If this happens, it’s important to demand clear communication about the status of your order, and ask for a refund or alternative solution. A legitimate business will always ensure that they follow through with their promises or offer compensation if there’s a problem. Be cautious and make sure to protect your investment by staying vigilant.
No Updates
If a company fails to provide any of the necessary details like receipts, tracking information, or communication, and also offers no updates on your order, it’s a major red flag. This lack of transparency is a common sign of a scam.
These companies rely on the assumption that customers won’t actively follow up or demand information. They may try to avoid any accountability, hoping you’ll forget or not press for updates.
Don’t let them off the hook. Be proactive in seeking updates whether through email, social media, or online forums. If you aren’t getting a response, don’t hesitate to escalate the issue. You have the right to know the status of your order. If necessary, report the company to consumer protection authorities to ensure others don’t fall victim to the same scam.
Fraudulent Charges
Whenever you provide your personal and financial information online, there is always a risk of it being compromised. Fraudulent charges, even small ones, can appear on your credit or debit card account.
If you notice any unfamiliar or unauthorized charges, immediately dispute them with your bank or card provider. It’s crucial to act quickly to avoid further issues. Additionally, cancel any outstanding orders with the company to ensure no further transactions are processed.
To protect yourself, contact your bank and request a new card with a different number. This will help prevent any future unauthorized use of your card and safeguard your finances from potential fraud. Always stay vigilant when sharing sensitive information online, and be cautious of any suspicious activity on your accounts.
Receiving a Poor-Quality Product
One of the most frustrating experiences when shopping online is receiving hair bundles that are nothing like what you expected. When your hair arrives and it smells bad, tangles easily, or sheds excessively, it can feel like a huge disappointment.
To avoid this, it’s crucial to do thorough research before making a purchase. Look for reviews and customer feedback to gauge the quality of the product. Once you receive the hair, inspect it carefully. If you notice issues such as bad odor, tangling, or shedding, contact the company immediately to report the problem.
It’s important to keep all transaction details handy and document the issues with clear pictures. This evidence will be vital in resolving any disputes or requesting a refund or replacement. By staying proactive and informed, you can better protect yourself from receiving subpar products and ensure you’re treated fairly by the seller.
How to Identify Websites to Avoid
Too Good to Be True
If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is! While everyone loves a bargain, be cautious of offers that promise much more than what seems realistic. Scammers often lure customers with unbelievable prices or deals that sound too perfect, only to leave them disappointed or scammed.
It’s important to trust your instincts and research the company thoroughly before making a purchase. Remember, if it feels like you’re getting something for far less than its value, it’s best to proceed with caution and avoid the risk of falling victim to fraudulent offers.
No Pictures of Real People
If a company only uses stock photos or images of celebrities, it could be a sign that the site isn’t credible. Many questionable businesses use stolen images of beautiful hair, such as thick frontals or luscious wigs, and pass them off as their own products.
To verify legitimacy, look for genuine photos of real customers wearing the company’s products. Authentic businesses often share user-generated content or customer reviews with real pictures. If you can’t find any evidence of actual people using the products, it might be best to avoid making a purchase.
Only Short Positive Reviews
Every company, regardless of its quality, will receive some negative feedback it’s simply a fact of business. No business can guarantee that every customer will be completely satisfied. If you only see a bunch of short, overly positive reviews, be cautious.
Especially if the reviews come from anonymous or unverified accounts. These could be fabricated or paid for, rather than reflecting genuine customer experiences. It’s important to look for balanced reviews that include both positive and negative feedback, as they are more likely to represent the truth.
More Tell-Tale Signs
Late Response Times
If you’re trying to inquire about products, orders, or payment details, and you notice prolonged delays in responses or even no response at all, it’s a major red flag. Trustworthy businesses understand the importance of customer communication and will prioritize timely responses to maintain customer satisfaction.
If you find that a company takes too long to reply to your inquiries, it’s likely that their customer service is lacking or non-existent, which could signal bigger problems with reliability and professionalism. Personally, I prefer ordering from websites that provide instant messaging features or offer a contact phone number. This kind of direct, accessible communication shows that the company cares about its customers and is serious about providing quality service.
Inconsistent or Changing Information
Another significant warning sign is receiving different or inconsistent information from the company, especially when you’ve had multiple interactions with them. If the details you get keep changing, or you’re told conflicting stories about your order, shipping times, or product details, it’s a clear indication that something isn’t right.
Legitimate companies will provide clear, consistent information and be transparent about their policies. When you experience frequent contradictions or vague explanations, it’s a good idea to proceed with caution. This kind of behavior often suggests a lack of professionalism, or worse, dishonesty.
How to Avoid Getting Scammed
Use Secure Payment Methods
When shopping on websites like AliExpress or eBay, where multiple vendors are involved, I always choose to pay through PayPal for added security. By using PayPal, I avoid directly providing my personal card details to the seller, as PayPal processes the transaction through a trusted third party. This minimizes the risk of my information being compromised or stored by vendors.
One of the biggest advantages of using PayPal is that it allows me to manage payments in a way that’s convenient and safe. I can fund my PayPal account directly with my bank balance, or link a credit or debit card to my PayPal account for easier payments. This way, my financial details remain secure, and I don’t have to share them with every vendor I shop from.
Additionally, PayPal offers buyer protection in case there are issues with the product or delivery. If there’s a problem with the transaction, PayPal can step in to resolve the situation, offering peace of mind and added confidence when making purchases online. By using PayPal, I know my transactions are secure, and my financial information remains private, protecting me from potential fraud or scams.
Ask Questions
When purchasing hair extensions, it’s important to ask the right questions. Reputable sellers or companies in the hair business should be accustomed to answering detailed inquiries about their products, including textures, lengths, colors, and sales details. A trustworthy vendor should also guide you on selecting the right hair extensions that meet your needs.
If a vendor seems vague or evasive when providing information about their products, or if they can’t clearly specify the available quantities, it’s a major red flag. Good vendors should be knowledgeable about their inventory and transparent about what they offer.
I always feel cautious if the vendor doesn’t provide specific details about their hair extensions or has unclear policies on availability. Asking questions allows you to assess whether the vendor is reliable and ensures that the hair you’re purchasing matches your expectations in terms of quality and quantity. Never hesitate to inquire about the origin, quality, and care instructions for the hair products, as this can help you avoid potential scams and ensure a satisfying purchase.
Order Early and Be Cautious with Your First Purchase
To avoid any last-minute surprises, it’s always a good idea to order your hair extensions well in advance. This allows you enough time to receive your order before an important event or salon appointment. Ordering early reduces the risk of delays or complications, and gives you the option to file a dispute or find an alternative solution if something goes wrong.
When making your first purchase, it’s also wise to start with a smaller order and spend cautiously. This way, you can assess the quality of the product and the reliability of the vendor without committing a large sum upfront. By taking these precautions, you minimize the risk of wasting money on subpar products or dealing with untrustworthy sellers.
Hair extensions shopping should be a seamless experience, but it’s crucial to be careful with your payment details and purchasing practices. Always prioritize vendors with clear, transparent policies and track records of customer satisfaction. Ordering early and being mindful of your spending will give you peace of mind and help ensure a positive shopping experience.
and…
If you’re looking to buy high-quality wigs or hair extensions, look no further than HazuHair.
We are a trusted Vietnamese hair factory with over 100 skilled workers, offering a wide range of hair styles including wavy, curly, straight, kinky, and more.
Our products come in various colors such as natural black, ombre, blonde, red, pink, and many others.
Reach out to us today!
- Hair Factory: Tan Son 2 Village, Tan Dinh, Lang Giang, Bac Giang Province, Vietnam
- Hotline: +849 4949 3883
- Whatsapp Mrs ThanhLam: https://wa.me/84949493883
- Website: https://hazuhair.com