Online
Shopping Tips
1.Shop only at websites that
offer encryption protection. A protected website will have one or more
of these three features: the small lock/key symbol at the bottom of
your browser window; an address that starts with https ("s"
for "secure") instead of just http; and a warning box that
pops up at the point of purchase.
2. Look for and read a website's
privacy and security policy. Stay clear of a website that either
doesn't have one or does not guarantee your personal information will
not be sold.
3. Print out a copy of your order and
confirmation number for your records. Reputable merchants will usually
send you an email confirming your order. However a hard copy is always
good to have in case your order is lost, deleted or not delivered as
promised.
4. Never share your website passwords
with anyone. Write them down and store them in a safe place.
5. Do not use the same username and
password at every website. Should your personal information be
compromised, a thief won’t get very far if you use different
passwords and usernames on different websites.
6. Use only one credit card to shop
with online. This helps keep track of your online purchases during the
holidays, and will make it easier to spot purchases that are
fraudulent. Look for a card that allows you to review transactions
online as well – you'll be more likely to notice a problem early on.
7. Don't enter more information at a
merchant website than is absolutely necessary. There is usually no
reason why you should have to supply information such as birth dates
or Social Security numbers when making a purchase. Fill in only the
bare essentials necessary to make your purchase.
8. Try to use a credit card with a safe
online shopping guarantee. Look for a card with specific guarantees,
like 100% coverage for any losses due to fraud when shopping on the
Internet. Many credit cards only cover a percentage or the first $50
toward fraud.
9. The vendors should also supply
another way of paying for your order such as a toll-free number you
can call. Legitimate online businesses will recognize your
concerns and will be more than happy to provide other means to make
the transaction. Look for phone and fax numbers as well as a postal
address that you can be use to complete your purchases.
10. Compare Prices. Just because you
find it in a Cyberstore doesn't automatically mean it's at the best
price. Just as in the real world of malls and shops, look around.
Online shops can afford to discount prices because of lower overhead,
but any bargain that seems to good to be true probably is.
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National
Fraud Information Center |
NFIC is
the only nationwide toll-free hotline for consumers to get
advice about telephone solicitations and report possible
telemarketing fraud to law enforcement agencies. They
provide Internet Fraud Watch to offer consumers advice about
promotions in cyberspace and route reports of suspected online
and Internet fraud to the appropriate government
agencies. 1-800-876-7060
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