How to tell if a prize competition site is legit 

We’ve all seen something that seems too good to be true and, in most cases, it probably is. But, that doesn’t mean a good deal or exciting opportunity is always a red flag. 

If you’re wondering what the key signs to telling if a prize competition site is legit or not are, we’re here to help. Keep reading for our top tips and tricks. 

The best ways to tell if a competition website is legitimate

Check the aesthetic 

In this case, it is about what’s on the outside. The way a website looks can be a huge indicator of its legitimacy. Ask yourself, does it look professional? Is it easy to navigate without being too simple?

While giving the site a quick visual once-over, look for spelling/grammar errors, images struggling to load, and broken links – these will all be signs of an untrustworthy website.

Yes, certain dodgy sites are like some knock-off ‘designer’ bags, you may have to look a little closer for the fake details but they’ll be there.  

On the flip side, a positive sign to look out for is the padlock symbol in the browser’s address bar. This is there on secure sites only. 

Look for external proof

Yes, sometimes we all need a little reassurance. Look for evidence of these competitions on linked social pages and take a look at relevant tags to see what people are saying. Just like looking at customer reviews before buying a product, other user’s opinions will be key here. 

Their social media engagement will also help you investigate. Are they getting a lot of positive comments from real-looking users? Perfect! Are they getting comments about bad experiences with the site? You have your answer… 

If in doubt, do a little Google search to see if any supporting evidence of the brand’s legitimacy comes up. An online presence is always a good sign. 

It’s in the details

Does the website or brand have easy-to-access contact details? An FAQ page can be helpful but you’ll be on the look out for a contact email, address, and phone number, maybe even a link to customer service options. If the site’s origins are vague and you can’t communicate with someone from their team, give it a miss. 

You can also take note of the payment options available. Being able to pay through payment systems like PayPal, Apple Pay, or Google Pay, not just entering your card details, can also be a reassuring indicator as those brands vet who they work with – plus, it means you get to side step a lot of the fuss when it comes to putting your details in and who doesn’t want that?

Read the T&Cs

We know, we know, no one really reads the terms & conditions but, for some peace of mind, we’d recommend it. Look for obvious red flags and vague rules that give too much power to the competition organiser. Have they included the possibility of extending the end-date indefinitely? Then its a big, fat nope from us. 

A legit site will have clear terms & conditions that include the legal information, a closing date, how to enter, how the winner is selected, and what makes you eligible. 

Other red flags

Just like dating, you’ve got to spot those red flags to avoid scam competition websites. Here’s some of the most obvious to keep your eyes out for:

• Asking for more personal information beyond your name, number, email, and possibly your address.
• The closing date isn’t obvious or there isn’t one at all. 
• They want you to pay to claim your prize, possibly to ‘cover shipping’. 
• Asking you to act immediately. A pressure tactic like this is always worrying. 
• The competition is offering an extravagant prize for very little input in a quick amount of time. 

What should you do if you think a competition site is a scam?

If you end up on a scam site, don’t engage or interact and get off it as soon as possible. You can then report it to the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC). 

If you have accidentally interacted with a scam site, stay calm (easier said than done) and make sure the browser gets closed, you change relevant passwords and contact your bank if necessary. 

If you’re looking to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe with a quality designer bag, Your Dream Bag, a fair and authentic competition site, may be just what you’re looking for.

With our handpicked selection of designer handbags and accessories and easy-to-enter competitions, getting your hands on your next fashion fave is just a few clicks away.