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Shop safely when using the internet in the run up to Christmas
More and more of us are turning to the internet for our shopping, in fact it was reported that almost 30 million people did their Christmas shopping online last year.
It’s not difficult to see why it’s so popular with no crowds, no cold or wet weather, no long queues or having to carry heavy bags round with you. A few clicks and it's all done and within days and all your goodies will turn up on your doorstep... Or at least that’s what you hope.
Pretty much everyone seems to do at least some of their shopping online these days either because it's more convenient or because the cheaper deals can be found on the internet.
But knowing the retailers you're buying from are legitimate and staying safe online are still vitally important. Otherwise you could end up with no goods arriving or, worse, finding that fraudsters end up using your credit card.
Here are a few pointers showing how to stay safe whilst you shop online:
How can you trust the site you’re buying from?
If it’s not a major recognised brand or high street store that you’re buying from, it’s worth taking a look at a directory such as Safebuy or shopsafe.co.uk. These organisations have checked out shopping sites before listing them and tested them for things like prices, site security and delivery.
If it's not listed it doesn't mean the site should be avoided- you're just going to have to carry out your own checks. Take a look to see if the company is VAT registered and that the site displays a UK phone number and contact address. It’s also worth calling the number to see if you actually get through to a real person.
The importance of Security
For safe shopping retail websites should display the padlock symbol in the browser and the website address should begin with 'https' whenever you are asked to input your payment information.
It’s also a wise precaution to register your cards with Verified by Visa or MasterCard SecureCode when prompted if you haven't done so already. It is quick and easy and offers another level of protection. Cardholders can sign up to Verified by Visa and MasterCard SecureCode at the website of the bank or card company that issues their card, or when they are shopping online at participating merchants. It means that when you use these cards to shop online you'll have to enter a password for your payment to be accepted.
As well as keeping your cards safe, it's important to keep your Computer safe too. Make sure you have the latest operating system, browser and up-to-date anti-virus software. If someone else uses your computer or laptop or you use one in a café or library, always log out as soon as you've finished. It’s also a good idea to make a note of the confirmation number of your order or print a copy of the confirmation.
If you're buying something that costs over £100, pay by credit card and you'll get extra protection under section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act in case things go wrong or if the retailer goes out of business.
Check out the best deals on 0% credit cards, and cashback credit cards here
When will your goods arrive and how can you send them back?
There are two things you need to take into account regarding delivery of your shopping.
Firstly, when is it going to be delivered? Check whether an item's in stock before you commit to buying it. Secondly, check if there's an extra charge for delivery and take this into account when comparing the cost of items. Some sites offer free delivery while others charge a fee. Often you can get standard delivery free but will be charged a premium if you want it delivered straight away.
Also take the time to understand the refund policies for any online retailer you are planning to buy from, especially if they are not based in the UK. Make sure you are comfortable with the refund and return postage policies or compensation that you would get if something were to go wrong.
By law online retailers have to give you seven days to return your gifts but sometimes you’ll find that other sites will offer longer returns periods.
Shopping online will undoubtedly become more and more popular, and there’s no reason why you shouldn’t be part of it, just make sure you know who you’re dealing with and take the precautions we’ve outlined above.
Happy shopping!
Published: 07/12/2010
The information in this article was correct at the time of publication and contains time sensitive data and links, it may not be accurate at the time of reading.