How to Identify Fake DESCENTE Websites and Avoid Online Shopping Scams
Introduction
DESCENTE is a well-known brand for ski wear and sports apparel. In recent years, however, an increasing number of fraudulent websites and scam ads have been exploiting the brand’s popularity. These sites often look very similar to the official page but are operated with the intent to sell counterfeits or steal personal information.
Example of a Suspected Scam Website
One confirmed case involved social media ads redirecting users to a site called “descente-jp.shop.”
- Use of an unauthorized domain (different from the official “descente.com”)
- Promotions with unrealistic discounts such as “90% OFF” or “Clearance Sale”
- Website design mimicking the official site but with awkward language and product descriptions
👉 On Facebook and Instagram, ads like “DESCENTE Clearance -80%” were displayed, leading users directly to the fraudulent purchase page.
Possible Consequences
Victims of such scam sites often face the following issues:
- Orders never arrive
- Delivered products are poor-quality counterfeits
- Credit card details and addresses are stolen and used for fraud
- Personal information is at risk of being sold on the dark web
Findings from Whois Investigation
Fake Site “descente-jp.shop”
- Registration Date: September 18, 2025
- Expiration Date: September 18, 2026 (1 year only)
- Registrar: Tucows.com Co. (foreign registrar)
- Name Server: Google Domains (anonymization service)
- Characteristics: Newly registered, short-term use, high anonymity — typical of scam sites
Official Site “descente.com”
- Registration Date: March 1998 (over 20 years of operation)
- Registrar: Nomura Research Institute (major domestic registrar)
- Security: Multiple protective settings
- Characteristics: Long-term operation, managed by the official brand, highly trustworthy
Comparison Table
| Item | Official Site (descente.com) | Fake Site (descente-jp.shop) |
|---|---|---|
| Registration Date | 1998 (long-term operation) | September 2025 (recently registered) |
| Registrar | Domestic major (NRI) | Tucows (foreign) |
| Expiration | Multi-year renewal | 1 year only |
| Security | Official management | High anonymity |
| Reliability | High (official brand management) | Very low (suspected fraud) |
How to Spot a Scam
- Check the URL: The official domain is “https://www.descente.com/jp”
- Look at the Price: Unrealistic discounts (50% or more) are red flags
- Verify the Ad Source: Ads not from official accounts are suspicious
- Contact Information: Vague or missing contact details are a warning sign
Safe Ways to Purchase
- Official DESCENTE Website: https://www.descente.com/jp
- Authorized Retailers (department stores, sports shops, etc.)
- Official stores within major e-commerce platforms (Amazon, Rakuten, etc.)
Conclusion
Scam websites and fraudulent ads pretending to be DESCENTE are rapidly increasing, especially on social media. Newly registered domains (such as “descente-jp.shop”) are highly likely to be used for counterfeiting and data theft. Please stay cautious.
👉 To shop safely, always check the official domain (descente.com) and use authorized sales channels.