Safer Internet Shopping - Top 10 tips
by Paul L.G. Morris: an experienced, respected and qualified Computer Advisor.
Some thoughts for safer Internet shopping:
Some people are fortunate to live in an area with relatively low crime rates and nice people around them which gives a sense of security. However, it can be a 'jungle out there', especially on the Internet where there are many people only too happy to relieve you of your hard-earned money. This article came about when someone remarked to Paul about a camera she was considering at a bargain price. But all was not as it appeared. So here are Paul's tips to help you shop safer (note that these tips are geared to a UK audience).
- Use a credit card, not a debit card - you get more protection with a credit card, especially for purchases over £100.
- Make sure the payment screen is 'secure' - the web address at the top should start with https://, not http://
- Check to see where the business is located. If it is outside of the UK you have less protection, outside of the EU, lesser still. Just because a website ends in .co.uk does not mean it is UK based.
- If the price is too cheap compared to the competition, think twice - this is a favourite method of snaring the unwary. If it is too good to be true, it probably is!
- Never heard of the company before? Research them using Google or another search engine. Either search by the business name or the business name with the words 'review', 'problems' or 'issues' after the name. See what other people are saying. Be suspicious if nothing is found - it could be a new site just created.
- When goods are imported from outside of the EU, you are still liable for VAT and any customs duties. You may or may not get caught but does it still seem a bargain?
- What are the shipping costs? - some disguise this until the last moment when your card is being charged.
- Look out for exchange rates - they may quote a £ price, but still charge you a $ price which may appear different when it shows up on your statement.
- Protect your privacy - do not give out personal information if it is not necessary to the transaction (such as birthdates) - some websites are designed to 'harvest' personal information for identity theft. If you really must have that bargain, lie!
- Print a copy of the order acknowledgement or receipt screen - this should show how much you have paid and for what.
More detailed information can be seen on this government website http://www.consumerdirect.gov.uk/before_you_buy/
© 2010 Paul L.G. Morris.
PM Studios Ltd.
You are free to distribute on the web this providing credit is given to the author, any revenue is equally shared, and a link back to http://ict.pmstudios.co.uk is given.
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