Internet Shopping Tips
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Stay Safe
'''The basic steps to take when purchasing online are simple:'''
# '''Know the seller'''. If you are unsure of a store, make sure you can find a valid contact number that works in case anything should go wrong with your order. Sites that have real street addresses tend to be more reliable then those with PO boxes.
# '''Do your research'''. If the company you want to buy from is unfamiliar to you, check with the
Better Business Bureau for any charges that might have been filed against the site ''before'' you place your order. Another good resource is
TrustE. Cross check company information through reputable, independent shopping sites that have user-generated feedback about the quality of a particular online company. Avoid depending solely on comments created by the company itself on its own Web site, which are potentially biased. Likewise, don't think that a company is necessarily dependable just because it ranked high on a search engine's search results.
# '''Know the return policy'''. Make sure the site clearly states its return/refund policy and that it is accompanied by a valid phone number that you can call to get through to a live person in case of a problem. When buying electronics, it is especially important to know the details of the warranty policy as well.
# '''Use your credit card'''. Most credit cards these days have antiuse numbers that will allow them purchase safely online without concern that the number will be stolen.
# '''Consider the cost of convenience'''. If you are searching for the lowest prices and find a deal that appears too good to be true, always read the fine print. Depending on the state in which you live, hidden taxes, handling costs, international duties (when shopping abroad), and other shipping fees such as insurance, can make an otherwise low price tag become much higher than expected.
# '''Protect your privacy'''. Manufacturers will inherently need information such as your name, email address, credit card number, and a shipping/billing address. This and information about your purchase may be saved by the vendor as a reference to enhance future visits to that particular site. Invasive and unnecessary disclosure requests include asking for your mother's maiden name, social security number, or bank account number. Never give these out. Opting out on receiving "promotional offers" and other related information from manufacturer partners is a good deterrent against email spam. It also keeps your personal information from being distributed or sold to third parties without your knowledge. When in doubt about the safety of your personal data, print and save a copy of the vendor's privacy policy for future reference.
# '''Use secure connections'''. Create "strong" passwords when making new accounts and opt for computers that support 128-bit encryption and SSL (Secure Socket Layer). Usually you will see a lock symbol somewhere on the browser window when you have entered a secure site. On Internet Explorer you can mouse over the lock to see the level of encryption. You can also look at the URL address; an https: (versus http:) means that you have entered a page with a secure connection. Use caution when shopping from public computers and remember to always log out immediately after making a purchase and close all browser windows. You might even want to delete the temporary Internet files, cookies, and/or history.
# '''Always print your receipts'''. Printing your order confirmation and/or saving it to your hard drive will give you a record of your purchase which is vital in the case that there is a dispute in the future. You can even print a copy of the product you are buying, just in case it shows up and doesn't look or perform like you expected.
# '''Beware of fakes'''. If you are buying luxury goods (including fine watches, jewelry, clothes, and accessories), memorabilia, antiques, collectibles, or art, take into account that there are many counterfeits and knock-offs that circulate vendor sites not affiliated with the original manufacturer. Usually they have unbelievable deals, which lead consumers to make impulsive purchases. To safeguard yourself, examine the products with a scrutinizing eye. Compare them with the original manufacturer's product via their Web page. Check for serial numbers and other defining marks of authenticity. You might even be able to send the product to the manufacturer directly to verify its authenticity for free (except that you pay shipping costs).
Fraud Resources
Below is a list of online resources that will help you stay safe and continue to enjoy the wonderful World Wide Web.
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GCtech.net Article about the dangers of shopping online.
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About.com General safety tips from About.com for online consumers.
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Fraud.org The National Consumer League's advice on how to beat Internet fraud. Check out the rest of the site for more information.
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NCL National Consumer League's tips to shopping safely online.
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US DOJ Department of Justice's Internet Fraud Web site.
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SEC U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission's advice on how to avoid Internet investment scams.
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Internet Crime Complaint Center IC3 is a partnership between the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the National White Collar Crime Center (NW3C), whose mission it is to serve as a vehicle to receive, develop and refer criminal complaints regarding cyber crimes.
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FBI.gov The Federal Bureau of Investigation's tips for avoiding all types of Internet fraud.
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Firstgov.gov Resources for all types of Internet fraud.
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Fda.gov Info about buying drugs online.
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Econsumer.gov If you have had a problem with an online purchase and you need to file a complaint, this site will help you do so.
Buying Resources by Category
These guides offer numerous online resources that will help you shop in specific categories with ease. Please feel free to add your favorite sites and resources to help your fellow ShopWiki users.
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Toy Resource Page
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Health and Beauty Resource Page
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Vegetarian Resource Page
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Electronics Resource Page
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Accessories Resources
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Office Resource Guide
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Babies and Toddlers Resource Guide
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Computer and Software Resource Page
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Video Game Resource Guide
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Sports Resource Page
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Wine Resources Guide
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Gifts Resource Guide
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Clothing Resource Guide
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Parents Resource Guide
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Home Resource Page
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Pet Resource Page
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Style Resources for Men
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Style Resources for Women
