If you are not familiar with a merchant, request a paper catalog or brochure. Determine the company s refund and return policies before you buy. Keep your passwords private. Avoid using a telephone number, birth date, or a portion of your Social Security number. Always read the cyber-merchant s privacy and security policies before you buy.
Many companies post their privacy policies on their web site.
These policies should disclose what information is being collected on the site and how that information is being used. If the policy is not posted, e-mail the company and ask for the policy. Some companies give you a choice as to whether and how your information is used. Pay by credit card. If you do so, your transaction will be protected by the Fair Credit Billing Act.