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With Christmas so close at hand you might be tempted to have a go at your first online purchase. If you have friends and relatives living abroad, it probably makes geographic sense to purchase a gift from a shop close to its final destination. Stories of goods purchased for a fraction of price these are available locally as well as the keen enthusiasm of certain groups of individuals who compare "bargains" they just found and the handling out of links may entice a newbie to take the plunge. Fear of being ripped off, of ending up with a dud, of using a credit card on the internet or of making a mistake during the transaction may prevent some from joining the e-commerce community.

If you follow the following guidelines you can make internet purchasing a pleasant experience and practically eliminate the risks associated with this type of commerce:

1. Understand what you are purchasing.

Read carefully the description accompanying the item. Is its condition new or used? Does it work, or is it being sold for parts? Where is the minor scratch or slight dent situated? Is this an auction or is it a normal sale? If the web site allows purchasers to rate the seller and pass comments about their own shopping experience read these reviews. Some sites also keep track of the number of transactions the seller has made. This helps you get an idea of who is on the other side of the transaction.

2. Ask questions before you close the deal.

Do not hesitate to ask questions after having read the information accompanying the item. Many sellers tend to be irritated at people who ask questions clearly noted with the item. Ask the seller to email you a photo of the object if you are not clear about certain statements such as inconspicuous this or soiled that.

3. Getting the item delivered.

Sometimes the cost of shipping exceeds that cost of the item itself factor this into the final cost of the item. Is the item being sent by normal or registered mail or is it being sent by courier? What happens if the item does not arrive are you entitled for a replacement at no cost? How long does it take for the parcel to get to Malta (double that time for busy periods)? When will the seller ship the item for example two business days after the payment is received?

Answers to these questions will give you a good idea of what to expect and when to expect it as well as any risks. Certain merchants charge considerably more to send an item to Malta than to other European counties. Some do this out of ignorance

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