Internet shopping offers many benefits to consumers. These include opportunities to save time and money, greater choice, the convenience of shopping when you like and having goods delivered, and a powerful ability to find and compare information, products and prices.Buying products over the internet is safe as long as you follow the guidelines below:
Shopping online is safe if you use your common sense and always check the terms and conditions of offers. When you buy on-line from a European retailer, you have even more consumer rights than when you buy in a shop.
Ensure the web site provides a street address, city/town address, e-mail contact details and a non-mobile telephone number. If in doubt, e-mail or phone the merchant before giving them your payment card details to reassure yourself that it is legitimate.
Make yourself aware of the security features available both on the retailer's website and in your own browser. Only trade with companies that have an encryption certificate and use secure transaction technology (SSL).
During checkout, look for a closed padlock symbol at the bottom of the screen and / or the site address changing from http:// to https:// which indicate that the communication between you and the retailer is encrypted and therefore confidential. While you are on a 'secure' page (i.e. when the padlock is visible), you can right-click to view security information about the page. But remember that web site security depends on ALL of the processes the retailer puts in place to protect you.
Never disclose your credit card’s PIN number (this is not the card number) to anyone, including people claiming to be from your bank or the police, and NEVER send it over the internet.
When you buy goods online from outside the EU you are an importer and liable to pay any Customs Duty and VAT.
Always check your credit card statement carefully. Raise any discrepancies with the retailer concerned in the first instance, as soon as you can. You have at least 90 days to report any transaction you are not happy with.
