When you buy gold bars online, it can be like trying to buy a dog from a picture: it seems glittering and alluring, but you can’t always be sure what you’re getting. Avoid these five common mistakes to make your life easier and keep your money safe.

Believing sellers who haven’t been checked out
When you look through auction sites or classified listings, it’s like walking through a forest where there are dangers all around you. Stick to well-known bullion dealers who have the right credentials and actual customer reviews. If you go to a shady website or see an offer that looks too good to be true, you can wind up with fool’s gold or nothing at all.

Not Paying Attention to the Fine Print
Have you ever clicked “buy” without reading the terms? Amazon Prime doesn’t cover gold. Some merchants hide expensive shipping and insurance prices or hard-to-find return restrictions. Before you give them your money, make sure you know their refund policy, delivery time, and payment security.

Not remembering to compare premiums
The spot price is just the start. The premium is the extra money you have to pay for gold coins and bars. Some coins, notably rare versions, come with big extras. To avoid spending too much for what should be simple bullion, take a minute to check premiums amongst dealers and products.

Ignoring Authentication
Taking something without the right documents or proof is like playing with fire. Real coins and bars have certifications, serial numbers, or at least mint marks that are easy to see. Don’t ignore these facts; if you do, selling or exchanging later could be a huge pain.

Not Making Plans for Storage and Insurance
The back of a drawer isn’t good enough for your new investment. Before you buy, think about where you’ll put it and how you’ll keep it safe. Make sure you have a plan for how to store your valuables, whether it’s in a home safe, a safety deposit box, or a professional vault. If things go wrong, look into getting insurance to help you out.

Shopping for gold online shouldn’t make your hair turn gray. If you stay away from these traps, you’ll feel more like a smart investor and less like you’re on a dangerous treasure quest.