Useful tips for shopping online

By CNET staff
22/04/2003

Cover yourself

You found what seemed to be a reliable online vendor. But something has gone wrong. The product wasn't what you thought it would be, or maybe it never even showed up on your doorstep. Somebody got your email address, and they're deluging you with spam. Or even worse, there are unauthorized charges all over your credit card bill.

If you follow these simple precautions, you'll minimize the chances of your worst nightmares coming true, and you'll also be able to control the damage if something does go wrong.

9. Safeguard your privacy
When you buy something online, you'll have to offer some personal information, such as your address and credit card number. Worried? Maybe you should be. Unless there's a specific privacy policy stating otherwise, a site is perfectly within its legal rights to turn around and sell this information to marketers. Shop only at sites that post a privacy policy, or prepare to face the consequences--a flood of junk mail, unwanted phone calls, and spam.

10. Get shipping policies in writing
Find out how long it's going to take for your order to arrive, then get the number of days in writing or on a printout from the company Web site. Companies that refuse to provide shipping times could be having business troubles (and good luck getting a bankrupt company to honor your warranty). They may even be up to some kind of scam, delaying your imaginary order while they take the money and run.

11. Always pay by credit card
Many cards also offer some measure of consumer protection, letting you challenge charges for unsatisfactory merchandise. If you fax a check or--even worse--mail cash or a money order, your money is probably gone forever. If you're a serious Net shopper, consider getting a separate credit card for all e-commerce. That way you can pick out unauthorized charges more easily, and if something goes wrong and you have to cancel the account, it won't put your entire life on hold.

12. Keep all your records
Even though you're shopping in the wondrous digital world of 1s and 0s, it's vital to keep records on old-fashioned paper. If the company site has any sort of guarantee--about shipping time, customer service, return policies, or anything else--print it out. (It's very easy to change Web pages on the fly, and you'll want a copy of the agreement as you first see it.) Write down details of all phone conversations, including dates, times, and the name of the person you spoke with. Save any paperwork that's shipped to you, including receipts, canceled checks, and even business letters. This paper trail will be crucial if something goes wrong.