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I have used the Internet for shopping for many years. I believe it is safe for making purchases. Follow these few simple rules to protect yourself and get the most out of your shopping experience.

Use Trusted Retailers

When shopping online make sure to use companies that already have a well established online presence. Places like eBay and Amazon are two such examples. Make your purchases from well known chain stores. If you must purchase from a company you don't know very well be sure to contact them with Email or phone. They should provide contact information on their website. If you can't find any contact information or they don't respond to you within a reasonable time period do not shop there. A good site should be able to respond to your inquires if they want to make sales.

Purchase Protection and Refunds

A good site will refund your money if you request it before the sale is shipped or if you request a refund. Make sure your purchase is protected. They should offer some sort of guarantee or money back if not satisfied. Find out if you can return an item once it is opened or not. If you are not sure then don't give out your information or contact the site for a step by step guide in how to pay for your purchase and what the return policies are. You may even be able to pay by check or Money Order. Always be sure before you make a purchase to protect yourself.

Credit Card Purchases

A good site will provide credit card protection. Look in your browser address bar it should read https:// this is the standard for encryption and means your purchase is protected. Your transaction is actually safer then one you would make at a retail store. Check your bills when they come to be safe for any unusual transactions and report anything that doesn't seem right. If you are unsure about credit card purchases or how you are being protected, ask the site before you pay. Many sites will use an online processor like PayPal where you can use money already in your account for purchases. I have made purchases for over ten years online and have never had one single credit card problem. They do happen but that happens with a regular retailer too. I am comfortable providing my credit card information online. My secret is to only use places I trust.

Hackers and thieves are all around us whether online or off. We run the risk of identity theft no matter what we do. I have found buying online to be safe for me. If you are not sure it is right for you, make your purchases at the store.

Learn more about this author, Brian Lamacraft.
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