security when you shop online.

[tater03]

I was thinking about doing some Christmas shopping online this year. I guess what I'm concerned about is the security on the different sites. Is there a way to tell that the site has a good security certificate? I just get so nervous when I have to give out my personal information online. Do you have any tips to look for when shopping online? Thanks

[brian]

Generally look out for the https showing in the URL, and the "padlock" icon appearing in the bottom right of your browser window.

Sticking to big names means generally security shouldn't be an issue, but I've had to shop online with a number of smaller niche ecommerce merchants, and everything seems to have been absolutely fine.

[tater03]

Thanks for the information. It's nice to see someone that has not had a problem. I think I just need to get over my nervousness.

[mtatum4496]

Originally Posted by brian

Generally look out for the https showing in the URL, and the "padlock" icon appearing in the bottom right of your browser window.

Sticking to big names means generally security shouldn't be an issue, but I've had to shop online with a number of smaller niche ecommerce merchants, and everything seems to have been absolutely fine.

Yep, I always look for evidence that I am dealing with a secure site before I order anything. Most of the sites I purchase at regularly do not save my credit card information for future use, which gives me a little bit of comfort too. Something can't be hacked and grabbed if it is not on file.

[tater03]

That is so true. I never let them keep my credit card information for future use. I just started buying online and most places seem to let you have an option of whether or not you want it saved. If that is the case I would say never save it. Better to be safe than sorry. New to this online shopping so I'm nervous to begin with without leaving my credit card online.

[papia]

Be careful while shopping online.
1. Your credit card no, telephone no etc are enough to purchase an item but be careful if any companies require other informations such as social security no, moy=ther's maidan name, bank account no.

2. Always use the website begining with http.

3. Internet explorer 7 have latest security system that gives you information about the website whether it is safe or not.

[reviewer]

It's best to buy from reputable and established sites, or to use sites that have payment protection (like eBay or paying through PayPal). This way you can be careful about those card numbers.

[brian]

Always pay by credit card as well - here in the UK at least, if you pay by credit card and your product/service isn't delivered, you can get your cash back in full via a "chargeback". Then the credit card company is left chasing the offender for the money back.

[classyred]

I can tell you I shop on line all the time and love it no packages to carry in the house and heavy lifting, UPS brings it right to my door, I have got to tell you I have never had any problems with online security with the websites I visit, I also think if your bank offers online protection you should be fine, my banks offers that protection and it really puts me at ease when shopping on line, If you do like to shop online check out Ebates, you get rebates from most online merchants I love it.

[papia]

Online shopping also can be fun if you follow some rules such as
1. alsways shop with your visa card
2. only shop at internet merchants ,you trust and know.
3. Never disclose your social security no, mother's maiden name and birth date.
4. Don't wait for the paper statement, check your credit card statement online or calling your bank.