So You Better Watch Out…

Business Wire, Nov 7, 2007

Online Holiday Shopping Tips From the Experts By Travis Brown, buySAFE

ARLINGTON, Va. -- During the holiday season, most people naturally think about the best gifts to purchase for loved ones. But savvy shoppers should be aware 'tis also the season for online scammers to rake in the dough, separating shoppers from their beloved credit card numbers and cash.

While it's easy to say "BE CAREFUL OUT THERE!" it remains increasingly difficult for most shoppers to protect themselves. Shopping online is the best way to buy great goods, save time and money, and avoid the nightmare of The Mall. It's also one of the best ways for the unwary to become a victim of a virtual mugging.

The only thing worse than getting ripped off on a purchase for yourself is discovering too late that you got ripped off on what you wanted to be a special gift for someone else.

* What if that antique gumball machine for dad never arrives?

* What if the pure cashmere sweater for your fashionista sister is, well, a rayon blend?

* What if the Hermes scarf for mom is a Chinese knock-off "Herpes" scarf?

Oops, and worse!

So, how does an online shopper become a smart online buyer? With the hope of making YOUR holiday shopping both convenient and risk-free, take a look at some of these tips from the experts.

FIVE DO'S AND DON'T'S FOR SAFE ONLINE SHOPPING

1) DON'T buy based on price alone. We all know that if the price is too good to be true, it probably is. On the other hand, high prices are no assurance that an item is legitimate or that the merchant will perform.

2) DON'T think that every picture is worth a thousand words. If a seller has only a few pictures and won't share more, you're likely dealing with someone illegitimate. Digital copying of pictures from catalogs or other retailers' sites can make ANY website look good, even professional. But if the merchant is selling something genuine, he/she should be happy to provide more photos and other information.

3) DO Read the fine print. Before purchasing, read and fully understand all terms of sale, including shipping costs, return policies and accepted payment methods. If the merchant hasn't addressed these items in a clear, professional way, or if the policies are overly restrictive, that's a serious warning sign.

4) DO Establish contact. If you are unsure about a product or transaction, communicate with the merchant by phone or e-mail before making any payment. Honest merchants should be happy to respond.

5) DO Rely on a trusted third-party endorsement. You WANT to buy from reputable merchants, but feel like you don't know how to research them? Well, relax ... independent experts have already DONE that research for you! The single best way to protect yourself when shopping online is always to look for a trusted, third-party endorsement of the merchant. For example, look for select bonded merchants that display the buySAFE Seal. This indicates that the merchant has been inspected, is continuously bonded and that your purchase is guaranteed by a bond up to $25,000. It doesn't get safer than that! And remember always to verify any third-party endorsement by clicking on the seal.

Best wishes for a safe and happy holiday shopping experience.