Some 71% of Consumers Encounter E-commerce Scams, a Clutch Report Finds

As online shopping becomes increasingly prevalent among U.S. consumers, the threat of e-commerce scams has also escalated. A recent report by Clutch, a Washington, D.C.-based rating and review platform, reveals that a staggering 71% of consumers have encountered a scam or an attempted scam while shopping online. This alarming statistic highlights the growing concern surrounding online fraud and its impact on consumer behavior.

Survey Insights

Clutch’s survey, conducted in February 2026 with 401 participants, uncovered that 92% of respondents are worried about the influence of online scams on their purchasing decisions. The findings indicate that these concerns are not unfounded, as 56% of participants reported having been scammed while shopping online. Among those who experienced scams, 42% reported being victimized within the past year.

The Commonality of Scams

According to Anna Peck, a Clutch analyst, the data indicates that scams are not isolated incidents but are becoming a regular part of the online shopping experience. “These findings show that scams are not isolated incidents. They are becoming part of the everyday online shopping experience,” she stated. This trend necessitates a multifaceted approach to address the issue and mitigate its impact on consumers.

Consumer Expectations

The survey also revealed that consumers have specific expectations regarding how brands and platforms can combat these scams. The following are the key actions consumers want to see:

• 67% of consumers want brands to monitor and remove fake ads.
• 55% believe brands should work more closely with platforms to ensure safety.
• 51% expect brands to educate consumers about common scams.
• 50% want clear communication regarding official shopping channels.

Role of Platforms

Clutch’s data indicates that 61% of consumers view platforms—such as social media networks, marketplaces, and search engines—as the most responsible entities for preventing e-commerce scams. The survey found that 33% of consumers reported encountering scams on social media platforms, making it the most common channel for exposure. Other channels include email (18%) and online marketplaces (16%).

Vulnerabilities and Solutions

Approximately 40% of consumers surveyed believe that all these platforms are vulnerable to e-commerce scams. To effectively prevent these online scams, Peck suggests that platforms should:

• Vet their sellers rigorously.
• Focus on collaborating with well-known brands.
• Implement more secure payment methods.

Payment Providers’ Responsibilities

Payment providers also play a crucial role in protecting consumers from scams. According to Peck, they can enhance security by:

• Working closely with brands to establish secure payment portals.
• Improving reporting and customer support services.
• Clearly communicating their policies and procedures to consumers.

Consumer Reactions

In response to the growing threat of online scams, consumers are taking proactive measures to protect themselves. Many are now:

• Cross-checking reviews across multiple platforms.
• Verifying seller credentials before making purchases.
• Reviewing return policies to ensure they are protected.
• Choosing more secure payment methods to minimize risk.

Conclusion

The findings from Clutch’s report underscore the urgent need for both consumers and businesses to remain vigilant against e-commerce scams. As online shopping continues to grow, so too does the sophistication of scammers. By fostering a collaborative effort among brands, platforms, and consumers, the e-commerce landscape can become a safer environment for all.

Frequently Asked Questions

Note: The information presented in this article is based on a survey conducted by Clutch and reflects the opinions and experiences of the respondents.