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How To Shop Securely Online

On this installment of the Internet Bootcamp we’ll look at online shopping. Shopping online is easy, as long as you keep a few things in mind. First and foremost, make certain that you trust your merchant. There are thousands of sites on the web, all chomping at the bit for your money. If you are going to be giving away your most sensitive information online, at least do your due diligence. Before making a purchase online, search through multiple sources. Your safest bet will always be online versions of stores that also have physical locations. Unfortunately, these are almost always the most expensive options. Here are a few:

Shopping Online

Amazon - Along with their normally lower than average prices, Amazon gives you access to user shops. These shops sell new and used merchandise which is often 10%-50% cheaper than the retail price. Many times, these merchants are trying to get rid of excess inventory are willing to accept a lower price as a result. Use your good judgement, and read the merchants reviews before purchasing.

eBay -

How To Buy On eBay

Overstock - Overstock offers great products at cut rates. As you may have figured out from their name, they deal in inventory overruns from traditional merchants. The plus side is that they are much less expensive than retail, the downside is that their inventory fluctuates wildly.

More Internet Shopping Tips

“Shop at Secure Web Sites. You can tell when you are dealing with a secure web site in several ways.

First, if you look at the top of your screen where the web site address is displayed, you should see https://. The ’s’ that is displayed after ‘http’ indicates that web site is secure. Often, you do not see the “s” until you actually move to the order page on the web site. Another way to determine if a web site is secure is to look for a closed padlock displayed at the bottom of your screen. If that lock is open, you should assume it is not a secure site.” — Privacy Rights

“If it’s your first time on an unfamiliar site, call the seller’s phone number, so you know you can reach them if you need to. If you can’t find a working phone number, take your business elsewhere.” — Federal Trade Commission

“Many online merchants offer rebates that can save you a bundle of money. To receive the discount, typically you enter the coupon code in the order form. It’s then deducted from the total purchase price. (Take a look at Retailmenot for a database of coupon codes -editor)” — Learn The Net

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More shopping resources.
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