Because of the great number of people who make Internet transactions, the problem of Internet hackers trying to steal information and money has become a bigger problem. By equipping yourself with knowledge, you can avoid becoming one of their targets.
No Security, No Transaction
If a website is not secure you should avoid making transactions on it. Scammers can place security images on their websites to fool you into thinking the site is secure. If you send information over a website that is not secure, Internet hackers can steal personal and financial data. When the site is secure, the site implements security measures to encrypt your confidential information. There are a few things you can look for to determine whether a website is secure. First, the web address should begin as "https" instead of "http." The letter "s" indicates that the site is secure. Second, if site is secure, there will be green or blue square in the "Firefox" location bar immediately before the "https." If you use Internet Explorer, there will be a closed padlock at the end of the address bar. Click on the padlock or the green/blue square to verify the website's security certificate to ensure that it is valid. If the certificate is outdated, avoid using the website for your transaction.
Personal Information
When conducting online transactions, be careful what username and password you use. If you have to create a username and password to make the transaction, make them unique instead of using those you use for other online accounts. When you enter your email address, don't use the same password for your transaction that you use for your email. Never give out your PIN number for online transactions. You likely will be asked for your credit card security code, which is the last three digits on the back of your credit card, but you should never be asked for your PIN. If your PIN is required, don't make the transaction.
Read Before Buying
Most websites include a terms of agreement that you must read and agree to prior to making your transaction. The agreement will let you know what you are purchasing as well as the refund and exchange policies. If you dispute the transaction or want a refund or product exchange after making your purchase, you will not be able to do so if the terms of agreement indicate that it is not allowed. Some websites bank on this because they know that many users don't actually read the fine print of the agreement. Some websites allow you to obtain a refund for your transaction if you request it within a certain time period after the purchase was made. Read the fine print before making your purchase. If your satisfaction is not guaranteed, you should think twice before buying.
Print Your Invoice
When you make an online transaction, you should receive an invoice. Sometimes, the invoice will appear immediately on your screen after you make the purchase. Other times, you will receive an email confirmation. However your invoice is generated, you should always print it out and save it for your records. You may need to refer back to it if a dispute arises.
