Shop safely online

Eight tips for secure Internet shopping

[July 30, 2008]

Higher gas prices may drive you to shop more online, but every STCU member should take precautions when buying stuff off the Internet.

Here are eight tips from the Federal Trade Commission, STCU, and the Credit Union National Association to help keep you out of trouble:

1. Use a secure Internet browser. The software you use to navigate the Internet complies with industry security standards if it scrambles the purchase information you send in cyberspace. Typically, you'll know you're in a secure website if a message announces you're entering a secure area, if you see a padlock or key in the locked position on the bottom of the screen, or if the "http" in the URL (website address box) changes to "https." The "s" stands for secure.
   
   
2. Deal with someone you know, especially if you're new to cybershopping. Nearly all major shopping catalogs now have a website, so you should have no trouble finding your favorite catalog online.
   
   
3. Know what you're buying. Look for accurate, clear and easily accessible information about the goods or services being offered. Contact the company to clear up any questions before you place an order. Get a full, itemized list of costs involved in the sale, including the currency exchange where applicable.
   
   
4. Check the site's return policies and customer service information. Some companies place time limits on returns or have special policies for opened compact discs and software. Print out the company's address and phone number, a copy of your order, and the confirmation number -- just in case there's a problem.
   
   
5. Shop only with online vendors who respect your privacy. Look for the vendor's privacy policy on the website. The policy should reveal what personal identifying information is collected about you and how it will be used, and give you the opportunity to refuse having your information sold or shared with other vendors.
   
   
6. Do business only with companies that state their commitment to customer satisfaction and their policy to resolve consumer complaints or difficulties quickly and fairly, without imposing excessive charges or inconvenience.
   
   
7. Always pay by credit card. This way your transaction will be protected, if you act timely, under the Fair Credit Billing Act. That protection gives you the right to dispute charges and temporarily withhold payment.
   
   
8. Get "Verified by Visa" to add safety to purchases made on your STCU Visa^® Classic, Gold, or Platinum credit cards, or your STCU CheckCard.