Eight Tips for Safe Online Shopping
By Shelley Wake
1. Understand Your Browser's Security Features
Internet browsers include various security features. Secure sites will usually start with "https://" instead of "http://" and most web browsers will show a padlock when the site is secure. Educate yourself on your browser's security features by reading the manual or by visiting the company's web site.
2. Use Original Usernames and Passwords
Some sites have you set up an account with a username and password and you then login to make purchases. Make usernames and passwords used for purchasing original to avoid people finding out your password from a less secure site, and then using it to access your account.
3. Look for Policies and Contact Details
If you find details of a returns or complaints policy, you can be more assured that the company will deal with you properly if you have a problem. Also make sure you know how to contact the company if there is a problem. Be wary of sites where you can't find any contact information.
4. Pay Via Credit Card
Payments made by credit card over the Internet are covered by the Fair Credit Billing Act. This provides protection from unauthorized use of your credit card, with $50 the maximum amount you will be liable for. Some credit cards include that you will not be liable for any amount. Paying by credit card can also make disputes easier to manage, such as if you do not receive the goods you have paid for. Other payment methods such as paying by check or money order do not provide as much protection.
Read More About the Fair Credit Billing Act:
5. Use a Unique Credit Card
To avoid the stress and inconvenience of having large unauthorized charges turn up on your credit card, consider having a unique credit card with a small limit just to use for Internet purchasing.
6. Keep Good Records
Write down all the details when you make a purchase. If you do have a problem and have to deal with it through your credit card company or bank, it will be much easier if you can provide exact details. Also consider printing a copy of the product details in case the goods you receive do not match the description.
7. Be Aware of Attempts to Gain Your Personal Information
If you receive an email claiming that a company needs to confirm your personal information, be careful. This is a fairly common scam, where you click through to a mirror site, enter your information, and that information gets sent straight to someone other than the company. You can avoid being caught by this technique by not clicking through to sites from emails. Instead, open your Internet browser and type in the normal address of the site.
8. Don't Send Personal Information Via Email
Be suspicious of any email asking for information such as your credit card number, social security number, passwords, or other personal details and remember that email is not a secure way to send personal information.