Shop smart and shop safe on the Internet.

From buying music, books, and software to electronics and furniture, millions of people enjoy shopping online. Security features on reputable online shops help ensure transactions are safe and secure. There are, however, some safety tips you should follow to avoid becoming a victim of cyber-crime.

  1. Use a payment method that gives you protection and check your credit card statements every month

    Credit card and bank transfers give you a record of all transactions and help you identify any unauthorised activity. Depending on where you live and what kind of credit card you use, you may be protected by law and liable only for a limited amount of money if your credit card number is stolen and misused.

  2. Reputable online shops will offer special technology for ensuring that your personal information remains safe throughout the transaction

    Cyber hackers may attempt to intercept your communication with online shops, so reputable shops use encryption technology to scramble your personal data while it's moving across the Internet. The most popular type is called Secure Socket Layer (SSL). One way to know if a site is secure is to check the web address (URL) on the page: it should begin with "https" instead of just "http." If in doubt, call the online store's customer line and ask about their security policy.

  3. Purchase comprehensive computer security software that can identify and block possible threats when shopping online

    Security software doesn't cost very much and could save you a lot of money by stopping online shopping fraud before it can harm you. Proven security software such as McAfee® Internet Security protects you whenever and wherever you go online. Including features such as identity theft protection, anti-phishing, and SiteAdvisor®, McAfee Internet Security helps keep your identity safe.

  4. It's never a good idea to send cash in the mail

    Genuine online shops will almost never ask you to send cash. In fact, in many countries, sending cash in the mail is illegal. Use a payment method that gives you a record of the transaction and protection if anything goes wrong.

  5. If you don't feel absolutely comfortable with a particular website, don't shop there

    Trust your feelings. If you sense something is just not right about the company you're ordering from, then don't go through with the transaction. If an offer seems "too good to be true", then perhaps it is. There are many other online shops just a few clicks away - and it's always better to be safe than sorry.