Internet Shopping
Advice Leaflet
The Internet is quickly becoming a world wide market place where an immense variety of goods and services can be purchased, however, recent publicity has raised the question of how safe is it to use credit or debit cards while shopping on-line. The following points contain advice which can help minimise any risk and reduce the potential for Fraud.
Always use secure sites when shopping on line. Popular Internet browsers such as Microsoft Internet Explorer and Netscape Navigator contain security features which allow them to communicate safely with such sites. When a secure site is accessed by Explorer, a padlock symbol appears while Navigator displays a padlock or an unbroken key. Using secure sites reduces the risk of card details being intercepted and misused.
Always deal with reputable retailers whose names you recognise or who have been recommended to you by a trusted source (i.e. magazine, newspaper or knowledgeable friend). If you have any doubts, obtain the retailers telephone number and postal address then contact them by traditional methods to confirm identity and conditions of the offer. If you cannot make contact in this manner, treat the retailer with caution and proceed carefully.
Check List
- Always confirm delivery guarantees and check the retailers return and refund policy.
- Keep back-ups and print outs of all on-line documentation, advertisements,e-mails and acknowledgement messages created during the transaction.
- Never release your card PIN (personal identification number) to anyone.
- Never disclose your card or bank details as proof of age of identity.
- Never transmit financial details by ordinary e-mail.
- Never publish your card or bank details in newsgroups, bulletin boards or chat rooms.
- Always check card and bank statements carefully for discrepancies. If you find questionable debits contact the retailer and your bank or card issuer as a matter of urgency.
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