Need just a simpler fake discount detector? Here are two…

 Need just a simpler fake discount detector? Here are two…

At the end of the day, common sense will keep you from being tricked by a fake discount, says Mark Stiving, chief pricing educator, Impact Pricing LLC. “Maybe, one out of 1000 of these huge discounts turns out to be a great deal. If you need a rule of thumb, don't buy something discounted more than 50% unless it’s from a reputable retailer you know well,” he suggests.

Woroch advises shoppers to do the math to determine the actual percent savings.

"Stores know people see more value in a bigger dollar savings," she said. "In the end, the $10 off $50 and $20 off $100 is the same percent savings so don't spend more because you think it's a better value. Buy what you need only!”