Your step-by-step guide to buying online
From food to holidays to train tickets, buying online can take the hassle
out of shopping – and save you pounds in the process. But many people are
afraid of security risks, or simply don’t know the benefits of internet
retailing. Stephen Balkam from the Family Online Safety Institute (FOSI) has
put together this step-by-step guide to help you make the most of buying
online.
- No queues, no crowds, no waiting around… Using the internet for purchases can save you time and stress. So don’t wait in line – go online.
- Many companies offer great discounts for online deals – because it’s easier for them as well as you. So next time you renew your car or house insurance, for example, look out for companies that offer online discounts.
- For cheaper deals, booking transport or concert tickets in advance could save you pounds.
- There’s a wealth of stuff online that you can’t get in shops, so check out sites like eBay and the marketplace on Facebook.
- Supermarkets also offer competitive delivery services for an easier way to do your weekly shop.
- If you’re not sure where to buy what you want, use a search engine like Google or Yahoo!.
- Alternatively, you can go straight to a particular retailer’s website by typing in their web address or doing a search for them.
- When you’ve reached the desired site, the details for buying are pretty straightforward – most e-retailers offer a ‘shopping cart’ facility where you can buy as many items as you need.
- You’ll be asked to include your delivery address and card details, so it’s useful to have these to hand if you want to shop online.
- Your search engine will provide links to similar sites if you can’t find what you’re looking for.
- Online shopping is becoming easier and safer – but look out for reputable sites from well-known companies.
- When companies ask for your card details, their pages should be secure – but be as wary as you could be in normal shops.
- Security is in place to protect the consumer. Most big-name shops conduct identity checks to put your mind at rest.
- Buying from individuals on sites like eBay can be riskier, so check out the seller’s profile and feedback if you feel unsure.
- You’ll be given confirmation when your order has gone through, and it’s useful to keep this as a receipt.
- Vendors often have a locked padlock icon in the corner of the browser window. This means the connection is secure so there’s no reason to worry about your card details being copied.
- Make sure the company has legitimate contact details, including a full postal address and phone number.
- Don’t be put off by being asked questions by the seller – it’s just to make sure you are who you say you are.
- However, be wary if the site asks you for more information than they would need to know.
- Finally, the convenience of buying online means you can shop around for the best deals at a glance – so enjoy it!