As online shopping continues to grow at a tremendous rate, you probably find yourself buying more items online instead of your traditional 'brick and mortar' stores. But while the online world may offer better prices, there are some new and different dangers to worry about. In this article, we present a guide to shopping safely online.
Computer Security
Safe shopping starts with a safe computer. Use:
A modern, fully up to date browser. Examples: Firefox, Chrome, Opera and Safari.
Antivirus software that includes modules to fight spyware and malware. If you're not sure which to choose, stick with the biggest vendors in the field.
Don't share your computer.
Web Browser Security
There are extensions for your browser that will warn you if the site you are visiting is dangerous and/or is run by a shady operator. Two top plugins (there are many others) are:
Web of Trust (WOT)
McAfee's SiteAdvisor
Does the Vendor Website seem Legitimate?
Look over the vendor's website thoroughly first. Check for:
Although not a guarantee, look 3rd-party security certifications such as from BBB or TRUSTe.
The vendor's website should have disclosures and policies listed for issues like privacy, shipping and refunds.
They should have a mailing address and phone number listed.
Do Your Own Research on the Vendor
If the vendor is not a large, well-established merchant, do some preliminary research to see if there have any serious negative history. Search for their name and/or domain name in user comments and sites like:
Google or Google Shopping
BizRate
Amazon (if they're listed in Amazon's marketplace)
Is the Price Too Good to be True?
Even in the online world, there is such a thing as 'too good of a deal'. And most of the time, your gut is probably right in thinking it's a scam or at least illegal, and someone is being victimized.
Purchase and Checkout
Once you're ready to buy, it's time to pull out your credit card and buy that item you've been lusting after. But first, here are some final checks:
Use a credit card, and not a debit card. It's much easier to query questionable charges with a credit card or even cancel it should the number be stolen.
The checkout page should be SSL-protected. Look for the padlock symbol in your browser and the 's' in 'https' in the Web URL.
Never submit your social security or bank account numbers, only your name, address and maybe phone number.
Save and print your order confirmation page.
Review your credit card statement when it comes and/or check it online.
That's it - you should now be adequately prepared. Address every single one of these issues and re-visit them periodically to ensure that your online shopping experiences are not only fun but safe as well.
Khalid Hosein is a blogger, computer consultant and tech geek who runs gadget blog Gizmos for Geeks, where you can find the latest in gadget and technology news, insights, howtos and much more. You can read a more detailed guide to shopping safely online here.
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