Suzanne O’Connor’s Bargains LA

Safety Tips for OnLine Shopping

Every year online shopping increases over 20%. So that now most of us will buy at least one gift item online during the holiday shopping season. Just as in shopping different brick and mortar stores, each website store you visit should be checked out thoroughly before making any purchases. There are a few rules to follow so that it is a pleasant and safe experience.

1. Use your credit card, not an ATM Visa or MC. You have more protection using a regular credit card than you do on a debit/credit. Plus debit cards pull directly out of your bank account.

2. Shop only on websites that use encryption technology to keep your transaction secure. Look for the picture of the unbroken key or closed lock in your browser window. Either one indicates that the security is operative. A broken key or any open lock indicates it is not. Look to see if the web address on the page that asks for your credit card information begins with “https:” instead of “http.” Some web sites use the words “Secure Sockets Layer (SSL)” or a pop up box that says you are entering a secure area.

3. Be familiar the websites privacy policies. What information they gather and how they will use it. Also familiarize yourself with their shopping, shipping and return policies. Is there a restocking fee? Who pays for return shipping? What product guarantees to they give? Etc.

4. Buy early for best selection. Also be aware that during the Holiday Shopping season, shipping can take longer than they state. Adverse weather conditions, mishaps, and human error can and do occur. So buy as early as possible. Waiting till 5 days before Christmas is a huge mistake.

5. Keep and print out receipts of transaction. All legitimate sites will give you a receipt. Print it out so you have a “hard” copy. You may also get a receipt and tracking information sent to your e-mail address. Again print them out and keep the receipts till a few weeks after the gift was given.

6. Look for websites that are registered with the Better Business Bureau online division
http://www.bbbonline.org

7. Comparison shop on the web before you buy. Just as you would for any item, get an idea what the item will cost first elsewhere. Also after you find the item, check. coupon and discount “code” sites for extra discounts.

8. Still uncomfortable buying online? Look for a phone in option on the site where you can order using the phone or at least speak to someone about your order. Talking to a living human being who is located in the United States is a good sign. Shy away from sites where the phone help is outsourced overseas.

9. When possible, shop sites anonymously without signing in until you are ready to make a purchase.

10. Lastly, read the small print everywhere… in the product description, web site policies, warranty information….everywhere! What you don’t know can hurt you or at the very least annoy you a lot