How do I protect myself from fraud?

Here are some useful tips to help protect you from fraud:

1.    Call the telephone and try the fax numbers provided by the company to ensure they are real and current

2.    Check with the registrar of business in the country where the company is located to verify that the business is legitimate and licensed to operate

3.    Pay for a sample before any bulk purchase to ensure that the item meets your specifications and expectations

4.    If the trader insists on talking about payment or other sensitive issues rather than pursuing the regular business process, you should be cautious.

5.    Low prices do not always mean fraud. However, you should always be cautious is products are extremely-low compared with the usual market price. Ask the supplier as many specific questions as possible about the item you want to buy - the more specific the better. If you do not get a reply, you are strongly advised stop all future contact with the supplier.