Security

Security is far less of a problem than many would have you believe if you make sure you only shop at sites that offer secure payment procedures (most do).

These procedures ensure that before you send any credit or debit card details, you are moved to a secure part of the site where all the information sent over the web is scrambled and protected.
You can check this has happened by making sure there is a padlock sign in the bottom bar on your screen, and the site address has changed from one starting with http to one starting with https.
Below are some handy tips to help you shop safely on the web, but remember the best advice is to use common sense in any transaction

• Pay by credit card. Only use debit cards when you are dealing with shops you know you can trust. When giving out these details, always make sure you are using a secure site (see above).
• Do some real-world research as well as internet research to compare prices. Net prices may not always be the cheapest.
• Print out your order and keep a record of any terms and conditions in a safe place along with the company's postal address and telephone number.
• Don't let your common sense and shopping skills desert you when shopping online. The same principles apply. Buy at your own speed, and if you can, get recommendations about on-line sites from friends.
• Check the company's policy on returning goods. If you have bought the item from a site abroad, you may find returning it costly.
• Be careful about spending too long surfing for a bargain - it can be addictive and costly.