What's The Safest Way To Shop Online?

With the pandemic, online shopping has increased tremendously. In fact, from the data of the UK Office of National Statistics, online retail has steadily increased by up to 40% of the total retail for the year 2020. This means online shopping is becoming more of a necessity than normal.

It becomes increasingly essential that we know how to protect ourselves from being scammed and to ensure we shop safely online. Let us look at some safe ways to do this.

Anti-fraud Security Checks

These are the initial checks to perform yourself on the website, you want to use. What are these? 

First and foremost is your own browser, is this safe? The most popular browser, used by millions is Google, and this is being updated regularly. You should not downplay your browser regular updates, simply because software and anti-virus updates will give you the latest security.

Research the website of the seller - it is important to do a bit of research on the websites. Are the company and the website legitimate? Look for clone websites that look so similar, e.g. amazon.co.uk as opposed to amaxon.co.uk. If you are not vigilant, you can fall into dealing with the scam website, thinking you are dealing with the right one. Then look for the green padlock, that states the website is secured.

What is the company return policy? In case you are not happy with your order, how likely will they accept it back and refund your money?

Pay with a credit card, as credit card gives you additional protection. This is because in case you did not receive your goods, not happy and you have returned, you can ask your card issuer to reverse your payment. This additional payment protection is not available with a debit card payment. With a Paypal payment, they will want you to first discuss with the seller first, and they will only come in if there's a deadlock. So paying by a credit card remains the best option.

Do not click on any link that made you an offer -  you should instead go directly to the website that made the offer and buy from that. This is because it is not unusual for links to contain phishing scams.

Be smart, if an offer looks too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers will post ranges of top designers goods for a relatively cheap price. Beware, this is to lure you. The goods will probably not be supplied, and you will not be able to get your cash, back.

Use only secured Wi-Fi, free public Wi-Fi is not secured, and both your password and bank details can be compromised.

Also, public computers are also not secured, although most library computers log you off after some certain time limit allowed, and are said to encrypt your data, it is best to play safe and not use any sensitive activity on public computer and Wi-Fi.

Preloaded Credit Card - might be safer. You know what you want to buy, and load in the money. In this way, there will be nothing to overcharge you with, and even if fraudster gain access to the card details.

Watch out for the scam email, luring you with unbelievable offers. Do not be greedy, London Metropolitan Police mentioned that people who fall into such scams are actually the greedy types.

Instal spyware and anti-virus software, to protect your own computer. Although you still have the same protection if you update your software regularly. Windows 10 update, for instance, is another good protection for your computer.

Always log out of the website you have shopped, as it contains your sensitive details - Make sure you log out safely after shopping online to prevent your details been cloned. Apart from that, always log off when you are not using your computer, NOT CLOSE.

Keep your receipts - As your receipt is your proof of purchase, it is important to keep it. You will need it to claim a refund or return goods. If you buy with a credit card, your receipt will also be important to further proof of purchase, in case you want a refund from your card issuer.

Always check your statements (bank or credit card) - as soon as it becomes available. This is to ensure the right amount is charged, and or no further charge takes place again.

Auction Websites

Using auction websites as the online transaction is a bit risker than the normal shopping websites. Therefore an auction website needs additional security checks. These among others are important.

Additional Surcharge - is common in an auction website, so look out for this to determine whether it is worth your while bidding in the first instance. 

Delay closing auction early far ahead of the final bid date - you might be tempted to make your interest known by closing the bid earlier than required. This is not necessary and could open your details to potential scammers. Avoid clicking on links sent to you purportedly coming from the auction website, but has been infiltrated by scammers.

Best to use another email - set up mainly for the purpose of the auction. This makes it clear what you are receiving from the auction site only, which will heighten your senses. Set up this email address and strong password solely for your online shopping.

Read Online Review - of the seller and or the buyer, as appropriate. Online review highlights important information about buyers and sellers. If there is no review on them, that raises an eyebrow about their existence in the first place. Or better still check if the company exist in better Business Bureau about the activities of the company.

The Final Thoughts

You have to make sure you protect your identity online, including your online activities and purchases.

Realise that identity theft is real, and there do not take your online activities for granted.

A fraud alert on your credit report will allow organisations that receive any offer to double-check from you before proceeding further.