Safe Shopping

Lynda Marconi
Top 10 Tips For Online Safety while Shopping

Well' the truth is unfortunately there is no 100% safety while shopping online YET!
However; We strongly recommend you to consider next section while shopping online.
Please note: Within the next section - 'Ten Top Tips for Online Safety' - we do include links out to various external independent and Official UK sites where further information on internet safety may be available.

Top Ten Tips for Online Safety

Following these simple steps allows you to shop online with more confidence:

1. Don't hand over valuable card or bank account information to the fraudster.
   Don't give away your Personal Identification Number (PIN) or bank passwords to cold callers or in response to unsolicited emails - often known as Phishing scams. We will never ask you for this information.

2. Keep your cards and card details safe in the real world.
   Most Internet fraud happens because card details are stolen in the real world and used online, so keep them safe at all times.

3. Know your Seller
   Prefer online businesses with a valid telephone number and a valid UK address; make sure they do exist.

4. Only ever use a protected computer.
   Make sure your computer has up-to-date anti-virus software and a firewall installed.

5. Only shop at secure websites.
   Ensure that the security icon - the locked padlock or unbroken key symbol - is showing in the bottom of your browser window before sending your card details. The beginning of the retailer's Internet address will change from "http" to "https" when a purchase is made using a secure connection. Note: By double clicking on the padlock, you will see a confirmation that it is still valid.

6. Make sure your browser is set to the highest level of security notification and monitoring.
   The safety options are not always activated by default when you install your computer. The most popular browsers include Microsoft Internet Explorer and Firefox. Check that you're using a recent version - you can usually download the latest version from your browsers' websites.

7. Always check your statements.
   Check statements as soon as you receive them. Choose online statements and check them regularly. If you find a transaction on your statement that you did not make, contact your bank or card company immediately.

8. Print out your order.
   When shopping online make sure you get a hard copy of both your order form and the retailer's terms and conditions. When buying from overseas remember that it may be difficult to seek redress if problems arise, but having all the relevant information will help your bank or building society take up the case if you have any problems.

9. Learn more about online security.
   For more information about how to bank and shop safely online visit: Get Safe Online, CardWatch.org, or Bank Safe Online.

10. Your Rights and Responsibilities
    Find out what your rights and responsibilities are on these Official UK sites. Trading Standards - Office of Fair Trading - DTI