Save Money and Stay Secure on the Internet.

Internet buying has many attractions - the convenience of buying in your own home, avoiding crowded shops and inattentive sales assistants and no parking fees to pay. Just with the click of a mouse you can search whole stores, even when they are ‘closed’.

To remain secure and also save money, the following tips will be of help to you.

1. Check that the online retailer you are dealing with has an address and landline telephone number in the real world. Make a note of these in case they should be needed, particularly if the company is based overseas.

2. Always use secure web sites. These sites are indicated by a small, golden padlock icon usually located in the bottom, right hand corner of the screen.

3. If you are buying an item costing over £100 use a credit card to gain insurance under the Consumer Credit Act. This may possibly save you money.

4. Before completing the transaction check the arrangements for payment and delivery and your cancellation right. Check that you are able to return goods if they prove unsuitable or not as described.

5. Print off a copy of your transaction page and also any subsequent emails you may receive relating to your purchase, i.e., confirmation of your order and delivery dates.

6. Use retailers that are known to you or those who have been recommended.

7. Do not automatically assume that a retailer is based in the UK just because their web address has ‘UK’ in it. Check anything that might cause you a problem in the future.

8. Before completing your purchase take into consideration the shipping, postage and packing costs. Balance these against your traveling and parking costs you would have to pay if you journeyed to the High Street.

9. Make sure you use a different password for each web site – yes, a bit of a bother, but worth the trouble. Have three or four ready that you can alternate.

10. Do not write down these passwords or your PIN number. They are both very valuable. Good exercise for the brain to remember them! This point is particularly important if you are using a shared computer. If you are using a shared computer, remember to log out of any site when you have finished.

11. If you must write down these passwords and PIN numbers keep these stored in a small notebook and store it in a place known only you. You have been warned!

12. If you are in doubt about any individual purporting to represent a bank or other financial institution, check their credentials. You can do this by telephoning the FSA - 0845 606 1234 or by going to www.fas.gov.uk/register and searching there by name or reference number.

You will now see how to protect your money and remain secure on the Internet is really just a matter of wise precautions and common sense. Possibly the pleasure without the pain!

Another page of special interest which gives you additional information isIdentity Fraud.Definitely worth a read.

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