How to Spot Genuine Deals and Discounts Online
A discount is only real if the product sold at the higher price before the sale. Check the price for a few weeks in advance, compare the same model at other sellers, and calculate the final price including delivery and bank card offers. If a deal looks far below every other seller, treat it with caution.
Last reviewed: 27 October 2026
How fake discounts work
- Raising the 'original' price shortly before a sale, then showing a big percentage off.
- Discounting an older model or a different variant with a similar name.
- Hiding costs in delivery charges or add-ons.
- Countdown timers that reset to create urgency.
- Bundles where the extra item has little real value.
A simple price-tracking routine
- 1
Shortlist the exact model
Note the full model number, storage or size.
- 2
Record prices weekly
Use screenshots or a notes app to log prices from two or three stores.
- 3
Use wishlists and alerts
Many marketplaces notify you of price drops on wishlist items.
- 4
Compare on sale day
Only buy if the sale price beats your recorded low.
Screenshots with dates are also useful evidence if a seller later disputes the price you were offered.
Stacking bank and wallet offers
Banks and payment providers and mobile wallets often run cashback or instant discounts during big sales. Read the conditions: there may be minimum spends, per-card caps, limited daily quotas and delays before cashback is credited.
| Check | Why |
|---|---|
| Cap per transaction | A '20% off' may stop at a small maximum |
| Eligible cards | Debit and credit cards may differ |
| Time window | Some offers run only in certain hours |
| Cashback timing | Credit may arrive weeks later |
Red flags
- New seller with no ratings and a very low price on electronics.
- Requests to pay by direct bank transfer outside the platform.
- Social media pages with no physical address or returns policy.
- Phones listed far below market without compatibility, condition or warranty details.
Frequently asked questions
Are 11.11 deals real?
Many are, but some are not. Track the price beforehand and compare with other sellers to know.
Is a coupon better than a bank discount?
It depends on caps and conditions. Calculate the final price for each option.
Not sure which store to trust?
See the directory