Buying stuff online can be convenient, economical and hassle-free at the same time. Online shopping come with advantages like buying stuff without leaving your home or office, finding the best deals, and most importantly getting the order delivered to your doorstep.
Getting better deals on the web is something more than getting the reasonable rats and a buyer may need to ensure things like the quality of products or services is as expected, security of financial & personal details shared and proper warranty etc.
Aside from advantages offered, online shopping also come with many issues like poor quality of products, ID theft and money related scams etc. However, everyone should read this ultimate guide for safer online shopping experience carefully before visiting a virtual store or online outlet to buy quality stuff without losing your money or confidential details.
Make use of a Secure Internet Connection
All your personal and financial details are at risk if you are using an insecure internet connection and your mobile device or PC is not protected with an online security solution. Hackers can easily access your device by hacking into the internet connection which is not secured or firewall of the PC is turned off.
If there is a wireless connection you are about to use for placing an order online, try to make use of trusted virtual private network to make sure all the personal or financial information shared with the online store would be encrypted. Online shopping on public Wi-Fi and insecure networks is strictly prohibited by experts.
Check the site for Security Lock
Don’t share your confidential or financial information with an online store or ecommerce website if doesn’t have SSL certificate installed. Website URL with HTTPS shows that all the information shared with this website would automatically be encrypted and protected from any third party. An icon of a locked padlock is also displayed in the URL bar that can help you find out the store which is safe to place an order.
Buy from Websites you Trust
Physical business comes with a great advantage that you can be sure about the business and the inventory they have at place. On another hand, you cannot see anything about an online business but just a website or e-store. That is the reason, always buy stuff from the ecommerce websites you trust.
For instance, if you are about to buy a t-shirt for yourself or for a loved one, you should shop from trusted vendors. In order to buy quality stuff and to keep your financial details in safe hands, always buy from the retailers and sellers you trust on.
Don’t provide Too Much Information
Social security number is not the requirement for delivery of an online order. It means, never ever share too much details with an online seller when it comes to place an order as it can be risky for your repute and money as well. If someone is asking for more details other than your contact details, simply walk away for a better option.
Check your Statements Often
Checking your credit card and bank account statements is one of the best ways to enjoy a safer online shopping experience. If there are unusual payments made automatically, ask the bank for further details and also contact with the retailers to whom payments made and ask for refund. Most of the online sellers usually use your financial details for malicious activities to take your money away.
Be Extra Careful on Mobile Devices
Due to the advanced mobile technology, everyone is using smartphones not only for convenient communication but to execute many minor and major computing tasks as well. As mobile devices normally come without antivirus or security solutions, buying stuff online on a mobile device can be risky. Cyber criminals can easily access your devices via an insecure internet connection to gain access to the details and information stored on your device. That is the reason, always try to use anti-virus app and VPN for public networks in order to enjoy better and safe online shopping experience.
Check the stores for 24/7 Customer Support
Customer support is one of the vital things to be considered when it comes to buy something online. Always check your favorite online store for 24/7 customer support and other contact details before placing an order. Quick and great customer support will definitely provide you a safer online experience.
