4 of 17

Write now Article Tools

In a word "YES". Let's not forget the problems that go along with shopping in an actual store-front. There's the potential of long lines, traffic, no parking space, getting mugged, spending additional money on food & drink, still being just as exposed to fraud if using a credit card. Really most of the hype over Internet fraud is blown out of proportion. So what are some things you can do to help protect yourself on-line. Well here's a few;

* Use a well known security program like Norton or McAfee

* Pay by credit card. Not only do you limit your liability but the credit card companies are also looking to ensure that there is no fraudulent activity. On Ebay there are other payment methods such as Paypal and Bidpay which are also fairly safe. You might consider paying by Personal Check or Money order on Ebay if you are dealing with a reputable seller with a high rating.

* Consider using Mozilla Firefox for your browser. It's a free program and is loaded with features. Internet Explorer has some security issues and since it's the most common browser it's more likely to be targeted for future exploits.

* Vary your passwords & user-names. I would recommend doing your best to memorize your passwords and write down some information that will help you remember them. If you've ever seen the show "It Takes A Thief" you would have some appreciation how valuable a written list of passwords can be. Also, you should have letters and numbers in each password and if you'd like to add another level of security you can use small and capital letters (this can be difficult to remember though).

* Consider allowing a well known trusted site to keep your billing information on file. Odds of this information being stolen is very slim and odds are greater that it can be stolen if you have to type it in each time. Also you might consider that every time you use a credit card in an actual store your information is even more vulnerable. That being said your liability is very limited with most credit card companies.

* If something about a site concerns you, go with your gut feeling and don't shop there or at the very least do some research. Sites like Bizrate can help you checkout a company and maybe find an alternative seller.

* With a bit of caution (like not parking in a dark corner in the mall parking lot) on-line shopping is probably safer than going to the mall.

Hopefully this information will prove to be of some value. I've personally been shopping on the net since shopping was available and I've only had 1 problem and the fraud was detected by my credit card company before it caused any damage to me. On the other hand, I know plenty of people who have used their credit cards in physical stores and have had their information stolen. The good news is, we are relatively safe regardless of where we choose to shop!

Learn more about this author, William Bartholomew.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Is Internet shopping safe??
We want to hear your view. Write now!