Protect Buyers & Sellers

Watch for cloned logos and politician images. Scammers often copy local news brands or politicians’ photos to appear legitimate.

Check the URL carefully. Genuine sites end in “.mu,” “.com,” or known domains (e.g., “webymind.com”). If you see extra words, numbers, or odd spelling, don’t click.

Do a quick Google search first. Before opening any link, type the company or offer name into Google. If no trustworthy result appears, avoid that post.

Beware of “free” offers. If something seems too good to be true—free phones, massive discounts—there’s always a catch. Scammers use flashy promises to lure you in.

Corporate and Business Registration Department

If the Business Registration Number starts with “C,” it indicates a Corporate Business.

If the Business Registration Number starts with “I,” it indicates an Individual Business.

• Both types of business numbers can be checked for free on the official CBRD website.
• To check a Corporate registration number, select either the company name or BRN number under the “Corporate & Partnership Search” tab.
• To check an Individual registration number, click “Search Other Businesses” in the top right corner.
• Then search by either the business name or BRN number; the results will appear in the table below.

No credit card or CVV on random forms. Legitimate online stores ask you to enter card details only on their own secure checkout page—not in a Facebook comment or TikTok link.

Watch out for unofficial payment requests. If someone sends you a Google Form or asks for card numbers via chat, close it immediately.

Pay securely online (for example, scan a QR code with Juice, use an MCB POS terminal, or pay by card).

Use two-step verification on your bank app. Enable OTP (one-time passcodes) for all transactions. You’ll get an SMS or push notification before any payment is processed. If you see a code you didn’t request, call your bank right away.

Save every confirmation. Whether you pay by credit card, mobile money, or bank transfer, screenshot your SMS alert, download the digital receipt, or archive your email invoice.

Check Gmail’s “Spam” or “Promotions” folder. First-time order confirmations can be filtered incorrectly. If you don’t see an invoice in “Inbox,” check those folders. “Spam” here refers to Gmail’s filter, not a fraudulent email.

Record date, time, and amount. The more details you keep, the faster your bank can trace and freeze a fraudster’s account if something goes wrong.

Request an official invoice with the company’s name and your details before handing over cash.

Cash-on-Delivery (CoD) applies to both sellers and buyers:

Risks for sellers: If a buyer requests CoD but doesn’t show up when delivery arrives, the seller loses time and fuel. This is the buyer’s fault and can cost the business income.

Risks for buyers: Paying before delivery does not guarantee you receive the order if the seller never shows up or provides incorrect contact details.

Solution: If the buyer doesn’t want to pay before delivery, choose either “Pick Up In Store” (if available) or request a neutral pick-up point in a public area. If both sides act in good faith, CoD can work safely.

• Whenever possible, pay online. A bank or mobile money transaction gives you a clear, traceable record—no “no-proof” disputes.
• Present proof immediately if you suspect fraud. Show your bank the transaction reference. Banks in Mauritius (MCB, SBM, etc.) work with the Cybercrime Unit and police to recover funds quickly.
• Ask your bank about buyer-protection services. Some banks offer extra security layers such as transaction monitoring and fraud alerts.

Not all TikTok sellers are legitimate. Many are individuals with no business license. If something goes wrong, you have no official recourse.

Look for a verified business profile. Official shops on TikTok often have a verified badge, a clear website link (ending in “.mu” or a known domain), and posted business registration.

If you buy from an individual who vanishes, you’re on your own. It’s nearly impossible to recover your money without a traceable business account.

• Scammers on social media tarnish the reputation of honest e-commerce businesses.
• When buyers purchase from shady Facebook or TikTok posts, they often lose trust in all online shopping.
• That makes it harder for real, registered Mauritian e-merchants to grow.
• By following these tips, you protect yourself and support a safer e-commerce environment in Mauritius.