As one of the most popular e-commerce platforms, Shopify supports millions of online stores. Even so, many people still question “Is Shopify legit?” especially when scams are everywhere. 

The short answer is yes, Shopify is definitely legit!

But in this article, let’s dive deeper into why it’s a safe and reliable choice for both sellers and shoppers. We’ll also explore some common scams and share tips to ensure a secure experience on the platform. Let’s get started!

Is Shopify Legit?

Yes, Shopify is definitely a legitimate and trustworthy platform for building and running an online business. It’s not a scam or a fly-by-night operation.

Founded in 2006, Shopify has a strong track record and a solid reputation. It now powers over 4.5 million active stores in more than 175 countries and is even listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the ticker symbol SHOP.

Some well-known companies that use Shopify include Kylie Cosmetics (by Kylie and Kriss Jenner), which has been using Shopify Plus since 2014. Ariana Grande also runs their makeup brand {r.e.m. beauty} on this platform, too.

Shopify has invested heavily in security measures, such as strong encryption protocols, secure payment gateways, and fraud prevention, to protect your store, your data, and your customers’ information.

Is Shopify Safe and Secure?

Definitely yes! Shopify takes many measures altogether to ensure the safety and security of transactions. Here are some key reasons why it’s a safe place for both merchants and customers:

SSL Encryption

All Shopify stores automatically receive a free SSL certificate, which encrypts all data transmitted between your store and your customers’ browsers. This protects sensitive information like login credentials and payment details from being intercepted. SSL also enhances customer trust by displaying the padlock symbol in the browser, indicating that the site is secure

PCI Compliance

Shopify is certified Level 1 PCI DSS compliant, meaning it meets the highest security standards for handling credit card information. This ensures that your customer’s payment details are protected and reduces the risk of fraud.

Fraud Detection

Shopify offers built-in fraud analysis tools to help merchants detect suspicious activities on their orders. These tools analyze transactions for red flags, such as mismatched billing addresses or high-risk behaviors, and alert merchants to potential fraudulent transactions before they are processed.

Two-Factor Authentication

Shopify offers two-factor authentication (2FA) as an extra layer of protection for store owners. With 2FA enabled, you can enter a verification code sent to your phone or email in addition to your password when logging in. This extra step prevents unauthorized access, even if someone has stolen login credentials. 

Clear Pricing Structure

Shopify offers a transparent pricing structure with no hidden fees. Merchants know upfront what their costs will be, from monthly subscription fees to payment processing charges. They can also opt for a 3-day free trial with no credit card needed to test out the platform.

This transparency helps businesses manage their budgets without surprises.

Secure Payment Gateways and Trusted Third-Party Payment Providers

Shopify supports a wide range of secure payment gateways, including Shopify Payments, which allows for seamless and secure transactions. 

Shopify also integrates with trusted third-party payment providers like PayPal, Stripe, and others, ensuring that businesses and customers can rely on secure payment processing.

24/7 Customer Support

You can access round-the-clock support via live chat, phone and email. If you encounter any security or technical issues, Shopify’s support team is ready to provide quick solutions.

Common Shopify Scams and How to Avoid Them

While Shopify itself is legitimate, it’s important to be aware that, like any platform, there might be some illegitimate or scam stores operating on it. However, these are isolated cases and don’t reflect Shopify’s overall legitimacy.

Here are some common scams and tips on how to avoid them:

Fake Stores

Some scammers create duplicate or fake stores that look like real ones, with fake logos and product descriptions. They deceive customers into thinking that they are purchasing from a trusted brand. 

How to avoid:

• Research the Store: Check for reviews on trusted websites or social media. Look for clear contact information and a legitimate business address.
• Check the URL: Ensure the store’s URL starts with “https” and shows the padlock symbol, indicating a secure connection.
• Use Secure Payment Methods: Stick to recognized payment gateways like PayPal or Shopify Payments, which offer buyer protection.

Triangulation Schemes

Fraudsters use legitimate platforms like Shopify to pretend to be sellers, offering popular items at incredibly low prices. When someone places an order, the scammer uses stolen credit card info to buy the product from a different website and has it shipped directly to the customer.

How to avoid:

• Be Wary of Large Orders from New Customers: If an order seems too good to be true, especially from a first-time buyer, it could be fraudulent.
• Monitor High-Risk Orders: Shopify’s built-in fraud analysis tools can help detect orders with mismatched billing and shipping addresses, multiple failed payment attempts, or other suspicious activity.
• Confirm Delivery Addresses: Use trusted shipping services with delivery confirmation to ensure that orders are being sent to legitimate addresses.

Fake Return Requests

Scammers may pretend to be dissatisfied customers. They claim faulty items and request returns. Then, they use fake tracking numbers or send empty packages to trick you into issuing refunds without returning the product. 

How to avoid:

• Verify the Order: Always check the original purchase records to ensure that the person requesting the return or refund actually bought the item from your store.
• Use Detailed Return Tracking: Before issuing refunds, require that returned items be shipped with a tracking number and delivered back to your store.
• Inspect Returned Goods: Carefully inspect all returned items to verify their condition and ensure that they match the product originally sold.

Phishing Emails

Scammers may send emails that appear to be from Shopify, asking you to provide login details or payment information. These emails often look official but are designed to steal personal information.

How to Avoid:

• Check the Sender’s Email Address: Official emails from Shopify will come from @shopify.com domains.
• Look for Red Flags: Be wary of emails that create urgency, such as “your account will be suspended” or “immediate action required.”
• Avoid Clicking Links in Emails: Instead, go directly to the Shopify website by typing the URL into your browser and check your account from there.

Expert Dropshipping Scams

Some individuals show off fake Shopify dropshipping results to appear successful and sell guides, services, or products to “help” people start Shopify dropshipping stores, but their methods are misleading or ineffective.

How to Avoid:

• Research Before Purchasing: Look for reviews and testimonials from real users. Be cautious of sellers who make extravagant claims like “guaranteed success” or “get rich quick.”
• Verify Credentials: Ensure that the person or company offering services has a track record of success and is not simply trying to sell courses or products with no real value.

Supplier Scams (for Merchants)

If you are dropshipping or sourcing products from suppliers, some fake suppliers may provide subpar products, delay shipments, or fail to deliver altogether.

How to Avoid:

• Research Suppliers: Look for verified suppliers on trusted platforms like Dsers, AliExpress, or Spocket. Always check reviews and ratings.
• Request Samples: Before committing to a large order, ask for product samples to verify the quality.

How To Check Is This Website Safe To Buy From?

Before making any online purchases, guarantee that the website is secure. To help you answer “Is this website safe to buy from?”, you can try these methods:

Use A Safety Checker

Google continuously updates lists of unsafe websites. You can use Google Safe Browsing to help users check URLs against those lists. 

To do this, copy and paste the website’s URL into the safety checker. Then, the checker can test the link and quickly report on the site’s legitimacy and reputation. 

Check For HTTPS

HTTPS is the secure version of HTTP, with the letter “s” standing for “secure.” You can look for a padlock icon in the browser’s navigation bar, which indicates that the site has a reliable SSL digital certificate to safeguard your connection. 

Look For Safety Signs 

You can also check some signs that the website is real. For example:

• Contact information: Legitimate stores often display their phone numbers and physical addresses to ensure that customers can reach them if needed. 
• Prices: Promotions are appealing. However, be cautious of prices that are too low, as they may indicate scams or stolen goods. 
• Privacy statement: Reliable websites often explain how they protect your information and whether they share it with third parties. Hence, always check for a privacy statement before making a purchase.  
• Return policy: If you can’t find clear shipping and return policies, it’s a warning sign. 

Use Secure Payment Methods

Check that the website offers secure payment options such as PayPal, credit cards, or other recognized payment gateways. Avoid websites that only accept bank transfers or cryptocurrency.

Check for Social Media Presence

Legitimate businesses often have a presence on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. A complete absence of social media can be a red flag.

Trust Your Instincts

If something feels off, it probably is. If you encounter any red flags, such as unusually low prices, poor website design, or a lack of contact information, it’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid making a purchase.

Tips to Make Your Store a Trusted Place for Customers to Shop

By now, you should be confident that Shopify is legit! But as a Shopify seller (or future seller), building trust with your customers is key. Here are some tips to make your store a safe and welcoming space for shoppers.

Project Professionalism

• Invest in a visually appealing and well-designed Shopify theme that reflects your brand’s aesthetic and creates a positive first impression.
• Use high-quality product images, write compelling and informative descriptions, and ensure your website copy is free of errors.

Showcase Transparency and Authenticity

• Craft a compelling “About Us” page that tells your brand story and highlights your values, mission, and unique selling proposition.
• Display clear and complete contact information, including a business address, phone number, and email address, demonstrating your legitimacy and accessibility.
• Showcase positive reviews and testimonials from satisfied customers to build social proof and credibility.

Prioritize Security and Privacy

• Ensure your store has a valid SSL certificate (indicated by the “https://” in the URL and a padlock icon in the address bar) to encrypt customer data and protect against security breaches.
• Offer trusted and secure payment options, such as Shopify Payments, PayPal, or Stripe, to reassure customers that their financial information is safe.
• Display a clear and comprehensive privacy policy that outlines how you collect, use, and protect customer data.

Offer Excellent Customer Service

• Provide prompt and helpful customer support through various channels, such as email, live chat, or phone. Respond to customer inquiries and address any issues or complaints promptly and professionally. With the rise of AI, it is convenient to create a custom chatbot to address customer queries promptly using LLM-based Langchain agent tools.
• Offer a hassle-free return and exchange policy to build trust and demonstrate your commitment to customer satisfaction.

 Build a Strong Social Media Presence

• Maintain an active presence on relevant social media platforms, engaging with your followers, sharing valuable content, and responding to comments and messages.
• Encourage customers to share their experiences with your brand on social media and feature their content on your website or social channels.  
• Host interactive contests or giveaways to increase engagement and build excitement around your brand.

Bottom Line

Now, I bet you have found the answer to the question “Is Shopify legit?” While scams can exist on any platform, Shopify actively works to combat them and protect its users. By being aware of potential red flags and following safe online practices, you can confidently use Shopify to launch and grow your e-commerce business.

FAQs

Is Shopify a scam?

No, Shopify is a legitimate and publicly traded company with millions of users worldwide. It’s a trusted platform for building and running online businesses.

Is it safe to purchase from Shopify?

Yes, it’s safe to purchase from Shopify stores. Shopify itself is a legitimate and secure platform with robust security measures in place to protect your information. However, it’s essential to remember that Shopify is just the platform; individual stores on Shopify are run by independent businesses with varying levels of security and trustworthiness.

Is Shopify safe for my customers?

Yes, Shopify invests heavily in security measures to protect customer data, including PCI DSS compliance and SSL encryption.

Can I make money with a Shopify store?

Yes, many businesses have achieved significant success using Shopify. However, success depends on various factors, including your products, marketing strategies, and overall business plan.

Is Shopify only for large businesses?

No, Shopify caters to businesses of all sizes, from small startups to large enterprises. They offer various plans with different features and pricing to suit different needs.

What payment options does Shopify offer?

Shopify supports secure payment gateways such as Shopify Payments, PayPal, Stripe, and other trusted third-party payment providers, ensuring safe transactions for customers.

How does Shopify protect customer information?

Shopify uses SSL encryption to protect customer data during transactions, and its platform complies with PCI standards to ensure that sensitive information like credit card details is handled securely.

How does Shopify help prevent fraud?

Shopify offers built-in fraud detection tools that analyze transactions for suspicious behavior and alert merchants to potential issues, helping to reduce the risk of fraud.

What if I’m not happy with Shopify? Can I get a refund?

Shopify offers a 3-day free trial to test the platform. If you’re not satisfied after the trial, you can cancel your account without being charged. However, refunds for paid plans are generally not offered.

Read more:

• How To Find Shopify Stores On Google
• How To Report A Shopify Store