Ten Tips for Smart and Safe Shopping
Online shopping has never been more popular. The reasons are easy to see--buying online saves time and money. Before you hit the virtual stores, review our tips:
1. Always use a secure Internet connection when making a purchase.Reputable sites use technologies such as SSL (Secure Socket Layer) or SET (Secure Electronic Transmission) that encrypt data during transmission. You can tell if this technology is in use when you see a lock icon in your web browser window. Another way is to check the address of the web page you are accessing; it should begin with "https". By the way, never send your credit card number by e-mail.
2. Shop with businesses you already know and trust.
Many retailers now offer online shopping. One advantage is that some let you return merchandise to their stores, instead of shipping it back. If you want to make a purchase from a store you haven't heard of before, do some research. Start with the Better Business Bureau Online. Also, make sure the site lists a physical address, not just a post office box.
Finally, check to see if it displays seals from consumer protection organizations such as the previously mentioned Better Business Bureau Online and TRUSTe.
You can also see what other shoppers have to say about a particular merchant by checking reviews at Bizrate and Epinions.
Another option is doing a search with Google. Enter the name of the merchant along with the keyword "scam". You may discover some interesting results.
3. Look for coupons and other discounts.Many online merchants offer rebates that can save you a bundle of money. To receive the discount, typically you enter the coupon code in the order form. It's then deducted from the total purchase price. Start your bargain hunting at Learn the Net Coupons.
For travelers, many airline sites offer weekly specials and e-fares. To keep informed of these discounts, sign up for newsletters at their websites.
4. Comparison shop.So-called shopping bots compare prices for products across dozens of websites. You'd be amazed at the range of prices. Start with these:
5. Be skeptical.Be wary of deals that appear too good to be true. They probably are. If you have suspicions, call the merchant and ask those tough questions. No phone number listed on the site? Then take your business somewhere else.
