When you’re buying from an online retailer or an auction website, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)—the nation’s consumer protection agency—wants you to keep these shopping tips in mind:
- Know who you’re dealing with. Confirm the online seller’s physical address and phone number so you can contact them if you have questions or problems.
- Know exactly what you’re buying. Read the seller’s description of the product closely, especially the fine print. Some name-brand items with “too good to be true” prices may even be counterfeits.
- Comparison-shop. Check out Web sites that offer price comparisons on similar items from different manufacturers or different Web sites.
- Check the privacy policy. The company’s privacy policy should let you know what personal information they are collecting, why, and how it’s going to be used.
- Pay with a credit card. It offers you the most protection as a consumer.
- Use a secure browser. Look for an unbroken key or padlock at the bottom of your Web browser window to ensure that your transmission is protected.
- Consider shipping and handling costs. Factor these into the cost of the order, and choose the delivery option that best meets your needs and budget.
- Print records of your online transactions. Save the product description and price, the online receipt and copies of every e-mail you send or receive from the seller.
- Understand the return policy before you buy. Can you return the item for a full refund if you’re not satisfied with it? If you return it, are you required to pay shipping costs or a restocking fee?
- Check delivery dates. An FTC rule requires sellers to ship items when they say they will or within 30 days after the order date when no specific date is promised.
- If you feel you’ve been misled or deceived, file a complaint online at www.ftc.gov.
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