Business & Finance Shopping

The Dos And Don" ts In Shopping Online

Shopping is shifting online. More and more people are filling in their online shopping carts each year. Since 2010, it has been observed that this trend is increasing by more than 40% year on year. Furthermore, the mass availability of smart phones makes it possible for more people to make purchases anytime and anywhere. But all shoppers should think that there are some safety tips to be considered when buying online.

The Dos of Shopping Online

Know your own seller - Even if you make a thorough online search using today's powerful search engines, there's still a big chance that you'll be redirected to a fraudulent site. Many online experts agree that as much as 3 in every 10 search results per page are scam.

If you have a trusted online retailer in mind, make it a habit to visit it first. But if you want to explore other options and try something new, you better check if that online shop is secure by spotting https:// in the site URL. The presence of security labels also make the stores more authentic.

Make the purchase at home - As much as possible, never make online purchases when you are using public Wi-Fi hotspots. There is an increased chance for expert hackers to tap into a public connection and steal your sensitive information.

Check your credit card bills regularly - Especially for regular online shoppers, it is wise to make it a point to check your bill for peculiar items. Unauthorized purchases usually befall to those who use their credit cards in paying online. Once your card number and other information have been typed at certain unsecured web pages, there's a high chance that some other person may use that information to his advantage.

The Don'ts of Shopping Online

Don't fall easily for discounts - Be extra doubtful about over hyped and over discounted online items. These offers are usually non-existent and victims often end up paying for nothing. The latest gadgets whose prices are cut down to more than half their original prices are very attractive. But these are the things you should keep your hands off. It is best to counter check the current pricing by visiting the official manufacturer's site and other competing online stores for comparison.

Not all escrows are trustworthy - Yes, this system enables safer payments. However, some online retailers are abusing it. Even if a seller asks you to pay via their escrow service, make sure that you counter check its authenticity. Else, it may be safer for you if you nominate to use your chosen escrow service.

Social network deals are sometimes fraudulent - Unless the offers come from someone you really know, the items put on sale at popular social networking sites are a cause for suspicion. They may redirect you to land on unsecure shops when you simply click the link or the product's image.


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