Three Tips to Make Online Shopping Safer

November 26, 2009 – 11:54 am

A few years ago retailers realized that not all people like to get up at 3 in the morning (or simply not sleep the day before) and go stand in line to buy products in their stores for discounted prices. Some genius realized that people would like to get deals from the comfort of their own homes as well. With that realization, Cyber Monday was created. And it was good.

Cyber Monday is the Black Friday for lazy people — or as I like to call them, smart. Buying online is a pleasure that many computer-savy consumers partake of. It’s easier to compare prices, read reviews and make sure you get the best price on an item before clicking that final “buy” button. However, you still have to watch out when shopping digitally. Here are three tips to help make your online shopping a bit safer this year.

Shop at trusted sites.
The internet is a large place and there are plenty of websites jockeying for your credit card purchase. Make sure they’re legit before you buy. All of the major physical retailers have dependable websites. There are also virtual sellers like Amazon, Newegg, Buy.com, Tiger Direct and others who are trustworthy sites. However, avoid sites that offer deals too good to be true. Some sites will offer unbelievable deals to obtain your credit card info. Only shop with those you trust.
Only buy from those who guarantee or warranty their products.
Buying online contains some risk. What if you get a defective or damaged product? Make sure the site you’re buying from guarantees their shipments and review their policies on wrong deliveries, shipping damage and defective products.
Review the return, shipping and privacy policies.
The privacy policy is a website’s most important feature. It is a written contract between you and the website you’re buying from. In most cases it tells you that your information is safe, secure and will only be used internally. Watch out though, because some sites will sell your purchasing information to marketers unless specifically noted. Also, make sure the website’s return policy is something you can handle if you decide to send back the product. Some charge shipping and restock fees on returns.

Use these tips to help protect yourself when shopping online this holiday season.

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