Internet Shopping Tips
Shopping online might seem like a dream come true--you can snag those Jimmy Choos 
while still in your PJs--but the world wide web can be a mean place. You need to beware of shoddy deals so you don't end up in Keds and a cocktail dress. Check out our internet shopping tips for a little help on how to get the best deals on the best products. Happy shopping!
Safety Tips
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- Only shop at secure websites. Since you're sending tons of important information over the net--like those coveted credit card numbers--you want to make sure your shopping site uses encryption technology to transfer information from your computer to the online merchant's computer. This prevents hackers from grabbing it. In order to determine if your website is secure, look for the padlock symbol displayed at the bottom of the screen or the "s" after the http section in the web address.
- Read the security/privacy policies. Every reputable website should give you the details on how exactly they process your order. This is where you'll read stuff about spam. If the company plans on sending your information to a third party, you might want to say sayonara to shopping on their website.
- Shop with familiar companies. It's best if you buy from companies you already know. If you really need to get something from an obscure boutique, do some research on the place before you ever click "Place My Order."
- Read all the fine print. Make sure you read everything thoroughly, from the product description to the refund policy.
- Credit's the new debit. For online shopping, credit cards work best. If anything goes wrong with your purchase, you're legally protected under the Fair Credit Billing Act.
Staying Organized
- Always print out copies of your orders. This will help you keep track of how much you spend and when the order is supposed to arrive.
- Opt for email notifications too. Make sure you have confirmation of your sale sent to a viable email address as well. The more records you have, the better.
- Remember your password. While you want your password to be hard to guess, it shouldn't be so hard that you can't remember it. Try writing it down on a sticky note and placing it in a drawer that can be locked.
Getting the Deals
After reading up on the rules of the game, you'll find that auction sites are great for getting the goods you want for discounted prices. Online auctions connect buyers and sellers directly, allowing them to communicate in a bidding process over items for sale. Once you've secured a deal, it's best to only use on online account for payment, like PayPal. Sending money orders or checks can be dangerous--they may get lost in the mail--or just a little fishy. Both parties should want the most secure exchange of goods and cash.
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