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With the internet’s ubiquity, many people are finding it extremely convenient to shop online. But doing so carelessly opens up the potential for fraud and identity theft. To protect yourself and your money, be a smart shopper by adhering to the following tips: 1) Know who you’re dealing with
Shop only at sites you know and trust. Make sure the seller has a secure transaction system before giving them your credit card or any other personal information. Look for a small lock at the bottom of your browser screen—this is the secure transaction symbol. Buying internationally increases the risk, so be extra careful when purchasing anything outside Australia. 2) Know what you’re buying
This may seem obvious but make sure nothing extra is tacked onto the transaction. Also look for details about terms of purchase and whether there’s a warranty. Also understand extra costs such as shipping. Reputable sellers will give you all the costs, in your own currency, before you enter your credit card details. 3) Protect personal information
Only provide personal information when you know the transaction is secure. Always change your password regularly. If you think you’ve entered your details on a fraudulent site, contact your credit card company immediately. 4) Read and keep records
Be sure to print and save the confirmation page and contract terms. Store them in a secure place. 5) Secure your computer
Make sure you have a firewalls and the latest anti-virus software installed. This will guard against unwanted access to your computer. Never open spam email messages and never walk away from your computer while mid-way through a transaction with your personal details. |
