[Image: online shopping]Shopping at a relaxing pace, grabbing great bargains, no waiting in long lines and an easy checkout process can be great conveniences in our hectic lives. Online shopping offers those and can be a great alternative -- but ONLY if you put safety first.
Once you take safety “out of the picture” with online shopping, you might as well invite the entire world into your home for a public viewing of your personal files. Protecting yourself and family from online scammers needs to be the first priority when shopping on-line.
Here are some pointers from the LSU AgCenter on how to protect yourself while shopping online:
- When you first think about shopping online, assume the role of a detective. Do a background check of the Web site before typing in any personal information.
- Locate the point-of-contact information on the Web site. Any company worth doing business with should provide point-of-contact information which includes the name of the business and its physical address and phone number. Should you find yourself with a defective product or incorrect billing, you may be less frustrated if you speak with a live person rather than having to endlessly search the Web site to resolve the problem.
- Avoid a mess; look for the “s." An "s" means it’s a secure connection, and consumers should only transact business on a secure line directly connected to the Internet. Where to look for the “s”? On the same screen that asks for your credit card information, notice at the top of the page if the Web site address begins with “https.” There should be an “s” after the letters “http.” If you don’t see the "s," do not give your credit card information. No “s” means no security. At the same time, if using a wireless router, be sure the signal is blocked to protect outside sources from your information.
- Passwords – choose carefully; store safely. Use a combination of numbers, letters and symbols. Never use your Social Security number as a password. Don’t share your password with others. Keep them in a locked and secure place.
- Maintain antivirus software. It can help to protect you. Read privacy policies. Check "no" when asked to share your information.
- Designate only one credit card in your household for all online transactions. It allows you to keep closer tabs on charges to one card rather than monitoring several cards that are being used by different members of your family. Be sure to review transactions that post to your account often so that you can catch any charges that you didn’t request.
- Be aware of what can distract you when shopping online. While attractive advertising, free shipping and bargain prices from online shopping can tempting, keep your focus on the real prize – protecting your personal information. When you finally locate that hard-to-find item or great deal, if it is at the expense of your safety, privacy and identity, then no item is worth the cost of your peace of mind.
- Always get a receipt. It’s your proof of your requested order. Simply print a copy of your order and the confirmation number to use as your receipt from your online shopping experience.
Taking a proactive approach to protecting your personal information means there will be less of a chance you’ll deal with hassle of correcting damages or unwelcome charges.
For questions related to family and consumer sciences, contact Penny Thibodeaux, LSU AgCenter Extension Agent at (337) 824-1773. For the latest research-based information on just about anything, visit the LSU AgCenter Web site.