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Shopping on the internet - top tips

With the increased use of the Internet, shopping is becoming a truly global experience, with more and more consumers turning to their computers to buy things like software, CDs and books. Like mail order, people appreciate the convenience of not having to traipse around the shops, and can browse among a huge choice of goods in their own time.

But shopping on the Internet can bring its own problems too. Follow our tips for safer on-line shopping:

 

A. Security...
1	Check that the website is secure
	Look for symbols such as the closed padlock. The internet address should also change from http to https when entering a secure area.
2	Never simply email your personal or financial information
	This is not secure… and beware of emails asking you to verify your account details – they may be ‘phishing’ [more...]
3	Always use your credit card – not debit card
	For purchases over £100 and under £30,000 the credit card company can reimburse you if the company disappears.
		Have a separate credit card for internet purchases with a lower credit limit (say £250) in case your credit card details are stolen and used fraudulently.
		Consider using the password protection systems offered by Visa and MasterCard for shopping online (Verified by Visa and MasterCard SecureCode®)
4	Check your statement regularly
	If you notice anything irregular on your account contact your bank immediately.
5	Keep your PC secure
	Use up-to-date anti-virus software, security patches and a personal firewall. Be extra careful if using Internet cafes or any PC which is not your own and over which you have no control.
B. WHO is the seller?
6	Go on recommendation if possible
	Check with friends to see if they have used particular companies. Anyone can create a ‘flashy’ website – don’t judge a company solely by its appearance on the web.
7	Get a full name, address and telephone number
	Under the Distance Selling Regulations this information must appear on the website.
		Check to see if the company has been independently approved, for example by the 'Which' Web Trader scheme or Trust UK.
		Print out the order, and keep any terms and conditions that appear on the web site, just in case of any disputes or problems later on.
8	Be very careful about buying from private individuals
	Your rights will be very limited; you will NOT be entitled to a cooling off period.
	On auction sites, such a ebay, look at the seller’s history and make sure you know exactly what you are bidding for.
	Make sure that you know exactly how much you are paying - does the price include postage and packaging or taxes?
	Use a secure method of payment such as PayPal where the money is deposited in a third party’s account before it reaches the seller. This means that your financial information, such as credit card numbers and bank account details, is not shared and only the agreed amount of money is taken.
C. WHERE is the seller?
9	If the seller is based in the European Union...
	You are entitled to a 7-day cooling off period for the majority of goods bought via the internet or by mail order from UK or other EU companies (not from private individuals).
	If you change your mind about the goods act quickly and contact the company straight away.
10	If the seller is based outside Europe…
	Watch out for high postage rates and for other hidden costs, such as duty payable.
	Remember, goods being sent from abroad may take some time to be delivered.
	If you have problems like faulty goods or non-delivery, it might be very difficult to get your complaint dealt with. Your contract will be in the country where the trader is, and it obviously isn't very practical to have to take legal action abroad.