The exponential rise in popularity of Internet shopping has given way to a huge number of new online shops and auction sites like for instance an online american indian art auction. These shops sell everything from beds to bath bombs. But with literally millions of online shopping portals to choose from, deciding which one to use when shopping around for the best deals can quickly become overwhelming.
Safe online shopping is a priority and there are some important steps you should take to ensure your personal details will be kept safe, private and secure. Even the best deal will quickly seem like a nightmare if your credit card details are stolen and used without your knowledge.
Here are our top five tips for making sure your next Internet shopping experience not only offers fantastic value for money but is safe and enjoyable too.
1. Compare prices across a range of shops
Don’t automatically assume that the first good price you stumble across will be the best. By shopping around and comparing prices on a number of sites you’ll be surprised to find the differences can be huge.
For financial services, it is always best to use comparison sites that will do this all for you, meaning minimal effort on your part. Reputable car insurance comparison sites, like
Captain Compare, compare prices across a number of the largest insurance providers in the marketplace to ensure you always get the best deal.
2. Only buy from websites you know and trust
If an unknown site is offering a deal that looks too good to be true, then chances are it probably is! The safest way to shop online is by only using reputable and well known retail stores but if you decide to use a site you have never heard of before, then check there is a physical address and phone number registered before purchasing anything from them.
3. Protect your privacy
The Internet has become an essential resource for us all but far too many of us are casual and careless with how we manage our personal data and information online. Should your private and sensitive information fall into the wrong hands, it could prove very expensive and cause major inconvenience for you.
In 2012, over 12.6 million adults in the US were victims of identify theft. The cost of this identity theft exceeded $21 billion.
In addition to installing the latest antivirus software onto your digital device, you should be careful about what you share on social networking sites and be cautious when opening emails.
When Internet shopping, make sure the site uses SSL, which is a security system that encrypts the information you enter. Look for the padlock icon when checking out and check that the website address starts with HTTPS.
4. Check the full cost
Retailers are beginning to use a range of sneaky tactics to make you believe you are getting a great deal, only to be faced with additional shipping, packaging and tax costs at the end of the transaction.
Make sure you are completely aware of the FULL cost before proceeding with the transaction and entering payment details.
5. Use discount codes
As competition between major Internet retailers grows, you will find they’ll do more and more to win your hard earned cash. This is great news for anyone looking to bag a great deal as there will probably be a discount or voucher code available online to help you save money.
Search online for valid voucher codes suitable for the retailer you will be using, remembering to enter the code in the appropriate place during check out.
