Playing it safe while shopping online
By Erica Hill
CNN Headline News
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The safest way to pay for items online is with a credit card because you have a record of the transaction.
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(CNN) -- If the thought of fighting the mall crowds makes you want to run screaming in the other direction, you're not alone. I know plenty of people who would much rather pick up the phone or click that mouse to get their holiday shopping done.
Online holiday retail sales are expected to hit $17 billion this year, up 21 percent from last year, according to Jupiter Research, a division of Jupitermedia. As many as 40 percent of the survey participants will do all or part of their shopping online this year. Half of those who participated in the survey said it's easier to find what they're looking for online than in a store.
Online shopping is also easy on the schedule. Cyberstores are open 24/7, and you don't even need to change out of your PJs -- or brave the cold -- to get there.
With the convenience of online shopping, comes risk, but not everyone is aware of the hidden dangers. Here are some tips from the Better Business Bureau and the Federal Trade Commission to keep you safe online this year.
Trust your instincts -- If you're uncomfortable buying or bidding on an item, maybe you shouldn't.
Find, read and understand the privacy policy -- Understand what information the seller is gathering from you, how it will be used and how you can opt-out. If the site does not list a privacy policy, the BBB warns against doing business with that site.
Review the return, refund and shipping and handling policies, prices and other legal terms -- If you can't find them on the site, request more information from the seller over the phone or via e-mail.
Use a secure Internet connection -- Most sites will tell you if they use encryption technology, and some icons also alert you to a secure site. Look for the padlock icon at the bottom of the screen, or an unbroken key in your browser.
Pay with a credit card -- This is the safest way to pay because you have a record of the transaction.
Double-check the pricing -- If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Don't forget to figure in the cost of shipping, which may change the price of that "great deal."
Keep records and receipts -- Print and date a copy of terms, conditions, warranties, item description, company information, even confirming e-mails, and save them with your records of your purchase.
Happy holidays!
