How to Avoid Scams and Sketchy Products on Amazon (2026)

Here are some tips to avoid scams and sketchy products on Amazon:

Check if the seller's name shows "Ships from and sold by Amazon.com." This indicates the product is sold directly by Amazon, making returns easier and delivery more reliable. However, this doesn't guarantee the product is high-quality or authentic, so further investigation is still necessary.

Filter Amazon's search results to show only items sold by Amazon.com to minimize exposure to potential scams. If Amazon isn't listed as a seller, try clicking "See More" to view the full list of sellers.

Amazon has strong return policies, including an A-to-Z guarantee for purchases from third-party sellers. But it's best to avoid returns if possible. To do this, verify the brand and listing before purchasing.

Be wary of extremely discounted items or products with unlimited sales. Use tools like CamelCamelCamel or the Keepa extension to track price history and identify legitimate deals. This helps you spot deceptive list prices and avoid overpaying.

While Amazon's five-star review system can be helpful, it's susceptible to manipulation. For high-priced items from unknown brands or products with thousands of reviews, proceed with caution.