Understanding the DSW Outlets Scam

DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse has become a popular shopping destination for affordable shoes and accessories. However, some misleading websites have emerged claiming to offer additional DSW outlet deals and steals. In this post, we’ll explore the red flags of the “DSW outlets scam” and how to avoid being defrauded.

What is the DSW Outlets Scam?

The DSW outlets scam involves fraudulent websites posing as dedicated clearance stores affiliated with DSW. They typically advertise massive mark downs like 80% off or buy one get one free deals on DSW merchandise.

To make the deals seem credible, scammers may:

• Use branding/logos that closely mimic DSW’s official style

• Claim to source directly from DSW warehouse overstocks

• Request personal details upfront under the guise of “order processing”

The goal is to steal people’s money or private information with no intent to deliver products. In reality, these sites have no relation to DSW.

How the Scam Operates

After luring in customers with “too good to be true” outlet deals, here’s generally how the scam plays out:

• Credit card information is taken upfront for “order deposit” purposes.

• Communication then goes dark with no order updates or ability to cancel.

• If customers persist, excuses are made like “technical issues” or items being out of stock.

• Products are never shipped while scammers walk away with funds and personal details.

The appealing limited-time savings promotions dupe well-meaning shoppers. But these rogue sites have no real inventory – they’re only there to exploit unsuspecting customers.

Common Red Flags to Watch For

There are some tell-tale signs that should raise suspicion of a sham DSW outlets operation:

• Domains registered recently instead of being long-established

• Contact details only via generic e-mail/web forms versus physical address

• Policies unlike DSW (no returns, different sizing info)

• Missing important branding/logos from DSW’s official sites

• Poor website design, English errors indicate a foreign operation

• Aggressive discounts vs. DSW’s reasonable warehouse sale prices

Staying alert to these types of inconsistencies is key before shopping or providing any sensitive info.

How to Stay Safe From the DSW Outlets Scam

To avoid falling victim, remember that if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably isn’t legitimate. Some strategies for safer shopping include:

Only Shop Directly Through Official DSW Channels

Bookmarks DSW.com and stick to authorized retail stores for guaranteed authenticity and buyer protections. Unofficial affiliate sites may still seek to exploit.

Verify Website Legitimacy Thoroughly

Check domains are registered long ago, ownership details are disclosed, shipping/return policies match DSW, and contact addresses are a physical location.

Search for Reviews About Websites

Google site names along with “review” to find discussions from others about experiences and indicators of trustworthiness. Patterns will emerge over individual complaints.

Never Provide Financial Details Without Protections

Even on seemingly safe sources, only complete purchases with credit cards for chargeback rights in case of fraud. Don’t wire money without guarantees.

Watch Out for Free Trial Scams

Some fake DSW sites offer “clubs” where “VIP trial memberships” require payment info upfront. This is a common affiliate fraud method – avoid at all costs.

Report Suspicious Sites for Investigation

Contact DSW Customer Support to flag possible imitation or scam websites misusing trademarks and customer trust for financial gain. Registration agencies can also investigate domains.

Armed with better awareness of red flags and protections, informed shoppers can safely take advantage of real DSW deals without risk of theft by unethical websites disguising as outlets. Due diligence at all times helps curb the scam.

What To Do If You Become a Victim

Unfortunately, despite all efforts fraud still occurs. So if you provided payment info that was stolen or weren’t sent purchased items, take prompt action:

Contact Your Credit Card Company

Immediately dispute the fraudulent charge(s) citing “item not received as paid for” to initiate a chargeback investigation. Most cards offer protection for such scenarios.

File an Online Police Report

Include all communication records and payment details when making a theft/fraud report with local law enforcement, which may help identify perpetrators with a possible history of such offenses.

Reach Out to Domain/Website Registrars

Registrars can investigate the entity behind questionable domains and in some cases take down scam websites to stop further victims. Fraudulent use of a company’s trademarks may also warrant attention.

Spread Awareness on Forums/ social media

By publicly sharing your experience, you may warn others while also contributing leads towards tracking repeat offenders using different domain names periodically. United consumer protection makes an impact.

Making noise about encounters is important for potentially building legal cases, having unethical websites addressed, getting back control of finances lost, and most of all protecting others. No one deserves the harmful impacts of fraud.

Conclusion

As brick-and-mortar and e-commerce both boom, opportunities will arise for dishonest sellers. But an informed consumer community prevents further victimization. Staying diligent and knowing signs of the DSW outlets scam can help safely enjoy legitimate savings and deals. With united commitment against fraud as well, relevant authorities are better equipped to respond. Overall shoppers hold power to curb unscrupulous behavior targeting their wallets through awareness and reporting.