Shopping
Buying products over the internet
Shopping on the net is convenient, but it is not perfect. Children find it natural to search for products online, and it's alluring to spend money until the bills come in. Use all the care that you would in the real world, and don't hand over your credit or debit card details.
Shopping on the net is convenient, but it is not perfect. Kids find it natural to search for products online, and it's alluring to spend money until the bills come in. Use all the care that you would in the real world, and don't hand over your credit or debit card details.
Online shopping can also be insecure. Anyone can build an online shopping site that looks impressive, so stick to shops and brands you trust. And make sure that the connection is secure any time that you give personal information. You can usually see a little padlock or key at the bottom of the web page, and the https:// at the front of the web address. If in any doubt, don't buy.
Mail order might not be as simple and convenient as you thought it was. For example, does the company give you a delivery time, or an option to specify that your product is delivered at weekends? What if the goods have to be returned? Most companies will expect you to pay the postage cost. Are the goods insured for delivery? Check the rules on the site before you buy, and if in doubt, call them.
Auction sites are popular and addictive. It's easy to sign up and bid, but be careful: you might get carried away. Don't let your children bid on an auction site if they want something, you bid on their behalf.
You can also buy services online - gambling is one activity that's very popular. In a recent survey, a 16-year-old girl attempted to register with 37 gambling websites. Only seven refused her registration. You might choose to block gambling sites at home.
What you can do
- your children should always ask your permission before buying anything on the internet and you should help them fill out any online forms
- many of the questions asked will be for marketing purposes. If you answer them it is likely that you will receive unwanted email (spam) from a number of companies. Do not answer these questions, or tick the OPt-out box to avoid unwanted mail
- card details should only be given though a secure connection - you can see if the site is secure by checking if the site URL is preceeded by "https://" when the site is asking for your payment or personal details
- only buy from well-known companies if you can. If this isn't possible, try to contact the online shop to check its credentials before passing on your details. Companies that have high street stores will be more established and have a reputation to protect
- remember that you will have to sign for goods received which could result in you having to take time off work to await delivery. Is it worth the hassle?
- be sure you know what you're getting for your money. With items like CDs, books, etc. you'll know what to expect, but for more unusual, fragile or unique products it isn't always obvious. Contact the seller if you need more info and read the small print
- find out about after sales services. Most reputable shops will offer guidelines on their sites. Returning items may be expensive and take a long time, as most companies will charge you for this
- auction sites like eBay (where you bid for a product being sold by a private seller) are becoming increasingly popular. If you buy through an auction site be sure to check out their terms and conditions and what procedures they have in place to protect you. If your bid is successful it is advisable to request the item be sent by registered post
- remember, you can always complain to your credit card issuer if you feel that a site is fraudulent. The issuer may be able to get your money back and withdraw card processing facilities from the site
Next Steps
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'Using computers and the
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