Question from a reader:
I would like to ask about an online shopping site; I suspect it might be a scam site. What do you all think?
Doubts About Online Shopping Sites and Their Background
Recently, as online shopping has become more widespread, the number of scam sites has also increased. In particular, many newly established sites cease operations within a short
period, which contributes to consumer distrust. Regarding the online shopping site in question, “GAME-CO.JP,” we will analyze it in detail while considering various legal aspects and psychological factors.
Analysis of Domain Information
First, we will begin with a detailed analysis of the domain information. The domain name “GAME-CO.JP” was registered on July 23, 2025, and is valid until July 31, 2026. Based on this information, the site is very new, with an operating history of only two weeks. Generally, scam sites tend to be established and shut down in a short period, so this point should raise questions.
Importance of Operating Period
The operating period of a site is an important indicator of its reliability. Typically, sites with over a year of operational history are considered to have a stable business model, which increases their trustworthiness. Conversely, sites that have been operating for a short period are more likely not to take customer service seriously. Especially given recent information indicating a surge in scam sites, caution is necessary for short-term operation sites.
Transparency of Corporate Information
Additionally, the investigation through corporate number search sites reveals that there is no company with the same name, which is a significant concern. When the trading partner is a corporation, verifying that corporation’s information is crucial for protecting consumer rights. If corporate information is opaque, the reliability of the transaction significantly decreases.
Importance of Display Based on the Act on Specified Commercial Transactions
The display based on the Act on Specified Commercial Transactions is very important for consumers to understand the trading partner and the content of the transaction. The seller listed in this site’s “Display Based on the Act on Specified Commercial Transactions” is “Game & Co., Ltd.,” but the lack of detailed information on the official homepage is suspicious. When the information about the trading partner is unclear, the risk of fraud increases.
Examination of Privacy Policy
Furthermore, the content of the privacy policy is also an important indicator. If the information is short and unclear, there is a high possibility that personal information is not being handled or secured appropriately. From this perspective as well, consumers should maintain a sense of caution towards the site.
Psychological Aspects of Consideration
The emotions and trust that consumers feel towards a site are psychologically significant factors. The doubts about “GAME-CO.JP” stem from anxiety arising from a lack of information and transparency. Consumers want to conduct transactions with peace of mind, and for that, transparency of information is essential.
Formation and Collapse of Trust
Trust is the feeling that consumers have towards a site, formed based on past experiences and surrounding information. When a site is new and has a lot of unclear information, consumers often feel anxiety and doubt. Particularly, if they have previously been victims of scam sites, past trauma can influence them, leading to even stronger caution.
Practical Guidelines
When consumers use online shopping sites, they should refer to the following guidelines to ensure safe transactions.
1. Check the Domain
Verifying the site’s domain name and registration information is the first step in assessing reliability. For new sites, it is important to check whether the operating period is short and whether the domain information is transparent.
2. Verify Corporate Information
Confirming the corporate information of the trading partner is also essential for ensuring transaction safety. Use corporate number search sites to check if a company with the same name actually exists and whether the address is correct.
3. Scrutinize the Display Based on the Act on Specified Commercial Transactions
The display based on the Act on Specified Commercial Transactions is an important source of information for consumers. It is necessary to check whether the seller’s information and contact details are clearly stated and whether that information is accurate.
4. Check the Privacy Policy
It is important to check whether the privacy policy is properly established and to understand how personal information will be handled. If there are many deficiencies, caution is warranted.
5. Check Site Ratings
Additionally, checking third-party site evaluations is also a method. By using reliability evaluation sites, you can assess the safety of the site. If the reliability exceeds 80%, the risk is likely to be low.
Conclusion
The doubts about “GAME-CO.JP” arise from various legal and psychological factors. The short operating period, the opacity of corporate information, and deficiencies in the display based on the Act on Specified Commercial Transactions contribute to consumer anxiety. Based on this information, consumers are required to make calm judgments and conduct safe transactions. To protect their rights, consumers should carefully verify information and only engage with trustworthy trading partners. By doing so, they can minimize the risk of fraud and enjoy a safe and pleasant online shopping experience.
