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E-shopping or online shopping simply means shopping via the Internet. An
example is the integrated online shopping-cart system that allows the user to order
directly over the Web. Then, there is the online shopping-cart system that allows the
user to generate an order form to be sent to the merchant via fax or snail-nail.
Today, many people are taking advantage of this convenient way of shopping.
However, together with this luxury of convenience, new concerns on information
security have emerged, with online frauds or cyber crimes being one of the biggest
threats.
To make e-shopping safer, here are some tips: First, choose
e-shopping sites that
are well-known or provide trusted services like Amazon.com as these sites "put
their name on the line". When in doubt, always check out the merchant website.
Contact someone there who can verify the company's privacy policy for you before
you make a purchase. Ask if they will send you a catalogue. If they do not list phone
numbers and only have an e-mail address, you have to be careful.
Before typing in your credit card information, look for the "plural URL."
That is, when you go to the site's checkout page, the "http" in the URL should change
to "https." A closed padlock or key should also appear on the page, letting you know
your personal information will be encrypted or scrambled. if you don't see either of
these "locked" icons or a change in the URL, log out and shop elsewhere. Even if you
see a proof of encryption, such as the plural URL, you should not equate that with
the site's trustworthiness. To verify the site's trustworthiness, call the company to
ask about its privacy policy.
You have found a trustworthy site with a secure checkout page. Now you are
ready to pay. With what do you pay ? Cheque, money order, debit card or credit card ?
Experts say credit cards are the safest method for online purchases as most credit
cards have protection on them. Even if someone rips you off, you can dispute the
charge. Secondly, by using a credit card, it is not just your money on the line but also
the creditor's. If you have a problem with your transaction, the credit card company
will help you resolve it. If you are at the checkout page and the site asks for your
date of birth and identity card number, be very careful as people can manipulate this
combination to start applying for new credit cards in your name. If anything seems
suspicious, call up the company. Also, be wary of sending out credit card information
via e-mail or instant messaging as neither is encrypted.
According to the latest survey, books are one of the things bought most online.
This is followed by accessories. Cosmetics and groceries are increasingly being
purchased online. Today, most of the travelers are buying tickets online because it
is a quick and easy way to make a purchase.
Is online shopping safer than shopping offline ? It is difficult to say.
When shopping online, caution is the word.
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