When choosing a password, make sure you choose a password that:
Contains numbers and letters.
Capital and lower case letters.
At least one symbol.
Don't use any words that you can find in the dictionary.
Don't use names.
Don't e-mail any personal information, such as bank account numbers, passwords, social security number, I. D number or passport number, or any other identifying information.
Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) - before sending any secure information check the following:
Look for the locked padlock icon at the bottom of your browser window or the top of your browser window.
Click on the padlock for further information about the security certificate of the company.
Make sure the the http:// is "https://www.sitesname.com
Research the company -
Know the company's physical street address, and phone number.
Resource the company to make sure the physical street address and phone number is correct.
If possible try to find out how long the company has been located at that location.
If a company is located at a specific location for only a short period of time, be careful.
Contact the Better Business Bureau or consumer agency
Contact the Embassy of the country you want to do business with. The Embassy of the country will be able to inform you of how you can research the reliability of the company.
Refund Policies -
Make sure you understand the refund policies of the company.
Do you get a full refund or a store credit?
Is there a penalty if you return the merchandise?
Who pays the shipping and receiving fees, if returned?
How long does it take to receive a refund or credit?
Can you cancel your order before the merchandise is shipped?
Beware of E-mail scams
Don't buy products from e-mail links.
Type the URL yourself, don't use an E-mail link.
Scams that present e-mails and site that look like the company's site.
Check the URL to make sure it is the correct URL and not a fake.
Know the company's URL and check before sending any personal information such as:
user name
password
Credit card information etc.
Credit Cards -
Have one credit card for only internet purchases.
Print out all your receipts of your internet purchases.
Find out from your credit card company the following:
What protection do you have against fraud?
How to get your money back?
How to cancel an unauthorized purchases?
What protection when making internet purchases?
How do you make a complaint against unauthorized purchases?
Know exactly how much the total cost, including the tax, shipping costs and any other charges that might be added on to your final bill.