Do you check reviews online before buying something?

Online reviews can be really helpful before you invest in something you’re not familiar with – but some of them are LIES!

Merchandisers know we’re looking for advice – and good reviews can have a really big impact on our decision. Up to 99% of customer reviews we browse through could actually be fakes. Here’s how to spot the bogus ones:

• Check the dates. If a lot of the reviews were written in the same day or over just a few days – that’s a red flag.

• Check the item. If the reviewers are mentioning the entire name and model over and over – skip that review. The average consumer doesn’t write that way.

• Watch for bad reviews – they know you’re looking for those. If it starts out on a sour note but then convinces you how wonderful the product is – keep reading.

If you’re buying gadgets or anything electronic – check YouTube for reviews. A lot of people webcast demonstrations and it’s much easier to tell if they’re authentic.