QUICK GUIDE TO: INTERNET SHOPPING

One of the major advantages of having a credit card is being able to take advantage of Internet shopping. Quick, hassle-free and relatively secure most major retailers have made their goods available over the Net, even supermarkets. Here’s a quick guide to the do’s and don’ts of shopping online.

Is it safe?

Yes, relatively. Phone shopping has been in place for a number of companies; catalogues etc, for years and most people are fairly comfortable with this method. Internet shopping is probably even safer and has the added benefit of being 24 hours. It’s important, though, to remember a few points:

1) Use sites whose name you recognise, or who have been recommended to you. If you found the retailer during a search, like their products/prices and want to know if they are genuine or safe, there are a number of things to look for. Some have a Watchdog, or a Trust UK logo. (http://www.trustuk.org.uk). Also, as you submit your details, you should see a small, locked padlock icon on the bottom left of your computer screen. This means you are entering a secure part of the website and your details should be safe and accessible to only those you want to see them, i.e., the vendor.

2) Keep a record of the details of the company, they should list an address, landline telephone number, and a ‘contact us’ email address. If they don’t, be suspicious. Most will ask for your email address in order to send you a receipt. Often this is automatically generated and you should receive it instantly. Print this email as a receipt until you receive your goods, whereupon you should receive an invoice, which will double as a returns label should you need it.

3) Most companies have entered a further security measure on their sites whereby you will be requested to enter your ‘3-digit security number’. This is the last 3 digits on your signature strip (on the back of the card) and designed to make sure the person making the purchase is in possession of the card.

4) You will most often be protected in your online purchases by your credit card provider who will offer a refund on any single item costing over £100 if it goes missing or is faulty, but always contact the vendor first to see if they can sort it out.

But what if it’s damaged or I don’t like it?

Your consumer rights still apply online and reputable companies adhere to the same strict advertising and trading standards laws. If you’re not happy, first contact the vendor by email. Failing a reply within 10 working days, contact the citizen’s advice bureau or OFT. If you simply change your mind, you should be able to return the goods within 7 working days of delivery for a refund. Whether you or the company pays postage will vary. Items must be sent to you within 30 days, unless agreed otherwise.

Happy shopping!

	Reading the fine print   Be careful about credit card offers   Lower the credit card apr   Chip and Pin secuity   Bad Credit   Credit Card Fraud   History of Credit Cards    Credit Cards Part 2  Remember Your Credit Card PIN  A Quick Guide to Internet Shopping

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