Online Shopping Tips

Holiday shopping season is approaching and Online Shopping is an alternative way to purchase gifts. However, before you shop on the Internet, you should know how to keep your computer and private information secure. The Broward County Consumer Affairs Division recommends that online shoppers follow these tips:

• Use the latest version of anti-virus software and a personal firewall. Anti-virus software scans incoming communications for troublesome files. Look for anti-virus software that: recognizes current viruses as well as older ones; can effectively reverse any damage; and updates automatically. Make sure that you update your anti-virus protection software regularly. A firewall blocks unauthorized access to your computer; if you have a broadband connection, it’s especially important that you run a firewall to block communications from unauthorized sources.
• Make sure your web browser and operating system are up-to-date. Your web browser security setting should be high enough to detect unauthorized downloads, for example, at least the “Medium” setting for Internet Explorer. Your operating system (like Windows or Linux) may offer free software “patches” to close holes in the web browser or operating system that spyware, hackers, or phishers could exploit.
• Don’t email your financial information. Email is not a secure method of transmitting financial information like your credit card, checking account, or Social Security number. If you initiate a transaction and want to provide your financial information through an organization’s website, look for indicators that the site is secure, like a lock icon on the browser’s status bar or a URL for a website that begins “https:” (the “s” stands for “secure”). Unfortunately, no indicator is foolproof; some fraudulent sites have forged security icons.
• Be cautious about opening any attachment. Don’t open an email attachment even if it looks like it’s from a friend or co-worker unless you are expecting it or know what it contains. If you send an email with an attached file, include a text message explaining what it is. Remember not to click on links in pop-up ads. They could install harmful files on your computer.

If you’re buying items from an online retailer or auction website, the following advice will limit problems and will enhance your online security:

• Know who you’re dealing with. Confirm the online seller’s physical address and phone number in case you have questions or problems. If you get an email or pop-up message while you’re browsing that asks for personal or financial information, don’t reply or click on the link in the message. Legitimate companies don’t ask for this information via email.
• Know exactly what you’re buying. Read the seller’s description of the product closely, especially the fine print. Words like “refurbished,” “vintage,” or “close-out” may indicate that the product is in less-than-mint condition, while name-brand items with “too good to be true” prices could be counterfeit.
• Know what it will cost. Check out websites that offer price comparisons and then, compare “apples to apples.” To get the best consumer protection, pay with a credit card. Factor shipping and handling along with your needs and budget into the total cost of the order. Do not send cash under any circumstances.
• Check out the terms of the deal, like refund policies and delivery dates. Can you return the item for a full refund if you’re not satisfied? If you return it, find out who pays the shipping costs or restocking fees, and when you will receive your order. An FTC rule requires sellers to ship items as promised or within 30 days after the order date if no specific date is promised.
• Keep a paper trail. Print and save records of your online transactions, including the product description and price, the online receipt, and copies of every email you send or receive from the seller. Don’t email personal or financial information. Read your credit card statements as you receive them and be on the lookout for unauthorized charges.
• Check the privacy policy. It should let you know what personal information the website operators are collecting, why, and how they’re going to use the information. If you can’t find a privacy policy, or if you can’t understand it, consider taking your business to another site that’s more consumer-friendly.

We wish to thank the Federal Trade Commission - www.ftc.gov, the Consumer Federaton of America -www.consumerfed.org, and the National Consumer League -www.nclnet.org, for their assistance in providing this information.