Careful shopping can avoid online scams
From concert tickets to a vacuum cleaner part, online shopping combines the advantage of visiting dozens of stores to compare prices and merchandise quality with the convenience of clicking a few computer keys.
Successful online shoppers must avoid the pitfalls and make sure they never divulge their personal information to scammers.
The online shopping experience has matured to the point where legitimate merchants followed standard procedures. They offer secure payment methods and are clear about the cost of the product and shipping. They offer ways to confirm or reject an order before making payment. They communicate by e-mail when the product has shipped and often allow customers to track the progress of their shipment.
Here are some tips for a successful Internet shopping experience:
- Buy from websites where you know the reputation of the business. If you haven't heard of the business, do some research by checking for information and complaints on Internet search engines. Previous unsatisfied customers often want to share their bad experiences.
- Check on the website for a physical address, phone number and working e-mail address. You can verify that the phone number and e-mail address are working before you buy. Legitimate businesses usually provide this information and you may need it if you want to contact the company after the making a purchase.
- If buying from an overseas site, make sure the product is legal in Australia and that warranties apply. Find out about import duties or taxes, how to get a refund, the cost in Australian dollars, how to return the product and the availability of repair services. Electrical items or toys may not meet Australian safety standards. You can check the legality of products with the Australian Quarantine and Customs Service.
- Make sure to read the warranties and product information carefully. Make sure the product's size, colour and other features are what you want.
- Use a credit card or secure online service like PayPal to pay for the product because these methods make it easier to dispute the transaction. Avoid private deals offered on auction sites. Watch for a padlock image below your browser to make sure the site is secure. Never send credit card or personal information by e-mail and be wary of unsolicited offers through e-mail. Don't use direct money transfers.
- Print out a copy of the order and record any order numbers. Keeping records of your purchase is important if there is a dispute.
- Stay away from aggressive websites that employ tactics to prevent you from easily clicking away and moving on. Be wary of websites that are suspicious or offer bargains that seem too good to be true.
Here are some useful links for more information:
Stay Smart Online, http://www.staysmartonline.gov.au/home_internet_users/protect_yourself2/smart_online_shopping
Queensland, Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation, http://www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au/online-shopping.htm
Queensland Police, http://www.police.qld.gov.au/programs/crimePrevention/eCrime/shopping.htm
Australian Quarantine and Customs Service, http://www.daff.gov.au/aqis
