Shopping Online

Most online shoppers use credit cards to pay for their purchases. But before you hand over your credit card details you should be sure you are spending safely. Although you can't control fraud or deception on the Internet, you can take action to recognize it, avoid it and report it.

• Use a secure browser - software that encrypts your personal information before sending it over the Internet. This makes sure that lurkers on the Internet cannot 'steal' your information as it travels between your computer and the web site. When submitting information look for the small yellow padlock at the bottom of your web browser. You can double-click the small icon for further security information.
• Read the privacy policy - often companies will allow you to opt-out of receiving marketing information from them as well as third parties. If you do not choose to opt-out your personal information and purchasing habits may be sold to third parties. Read the privacy policy available on the site (usually in 'Help' or 'FAQ').
• Refund and delivery policies - before making your purchase make sure you understand their refund policy and delivery conditions.
• Keep records of transactions - print out any web page receipts or e-mails that you receive from the company you ordered from. Keep a log of your customer / transaction ID to use as a reference if you need to contact them about your order at a later date.
• Read your statements - check your credit cards or debit cards each month to make sure unauthorized charges have not been made. If you see something suspicious or unlikely, contact your card issuer immediately. You may even be able to claim back the amount if you didn't authorize the transaction.

You should report problems immediately to both the card issuer and the police if you feel you have been a victim of fraud or identity theft on the Internet. Errors on credit and bank statements can also occur.