Many first-time Internet shoppers worry about credit card security, their privacy, unscrupulous merchants and, in some cases consumers are a little apprehensive about using online shopping technology. As always, the darker side of new technology always seems to headline the media, but the media-hype far outweighs the actual danger, privacy violations and security issues.

By taking a few precautions, and by using a little common shopping sense, just as you would do when shopping in the real world, your online shopping experience can be a very pleasurable, convenient and secure one.

Be comfortable with whom are you dealing with?

Check that the retailers has provided proper identification. This includes the legal trading name, a physical trading address and phone number. Australian retailers will have either an ACN or ABN number displayed on their web site. You should also find details of any statutory registration or license numbers required to be stated. Contact details and links should be included where a retailer is claiming membership of an industry association, or compliance with a voluntary code of practice.

When dealing with any retailers located outside of your state or country, look for statements about which state and country laws apply. It will most likely be the laws of the country in which the retailer is located. These laws will apply to all transactions. State, Federal or Commonwealth fair trading laws offer protection to consumers dealing with local retailers, but there may be little or no protection available when dealing with some out-of-state or overseas retailers.

Check the price

All goods and services offered should be described clearly and in sufficient detail as not to misrepresent, mislead or confuse you. If you are unsure of a particular product or service, contact the retailers by e-mail, fax or phone to clarify any questions you may have before you buy. If your are not in a hurry to purchase, you can perform your own price comparisons at your local stores or at other related web sites.

Determine what the final cost will be including handling and delivery to your door. If the retailers is operating outside your local country, check which currency applies and the current exchange rates. Find out if any tax (GST) or import duty is applicable to products delivered to your state, province or country.

Warranties and Refunds

Check for statements that outline your warranty and refund rights. Local state, federal and commonwealth fair trading law provides a basic level of consumer protection when purchasing goods or services. This will not apply when dealing with overseas retailers. If problems do occur that cannot be resolved directly with the retailer, contact your local BBB, state fair trading agency or your local consumer protection agency for advice.

Remember shipping costs

Clarify the delivery date or maximum delivery period. Ensure the web site provides clear contact details in case of delivery delays or if any other problems occur.

Is your privacy protected?

Find out if the web site contains a privacy statement setting out how it deals with the personal information you provide. Some retailers may use it for marketing purposes. Some may even sell your personal details to other organisations that could lead to unsolicited and unwanted e-mail (known as spam).

Always use secure online ordering systems

Security of credit card details provided over the Internet is a concern for many consumers. Ensure that the retailers web site explains the type of secure ordering system used. Many reputable online retailers use the SSL system (Secure Sockets Layer). SSL encrypts your credit card details so that the information is protected during transmission. SSL may be identified by an unbroken key or lock appearing at the bottom right hand side area of your browser window.

Many online shops make use of a frames navigation environment. In these cases, when in SSL mode, you will not be able to see an unbroken key or lock. To confirm that the actual order form is secure: Right Click on a blank area of the main window, and view the security certificate properties.

What type of online ordering is safe?

As with any credit card transaction, be it online, via fax, mail or by telephone, the ultimate responsibility for the transaction rests with the retailer. In most cases your maximum liability on any credit card transaction is $50.00. This may vary depending on the policy of your credit card provider. Many financial institutions are encouraging the use of credit cards for online transactions by offering a '100% Internet Safe Shopping Guarantee'.

Print out a copy of your order and keep it

Print out any forms, order forms, order confirmations and any e-mails sent and received. Also print out the web pages that details the offer and any promises made. Retain the documentation as proof of the purchase in case anything goes wrong with the deal.

Customer Service and Complaint Handling:

Businesses should include information about their complaints handling procedure and contact details. If you are dissatisfied with any of the internal complaints handling procedures, contact your local fair trading agencies for further advice.

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