Consumers who shop over the Internet should take the same precautions as those who make purchases in a store or from a catalog, says one consumer protection advocate. It's a lot like other kinds of commerce. Those surveyed listed pricing, potential return hassles, credit-card concerns and privacy issues among their reservations to online shopping. Brammer recommends that shoppers follow some tips while navigating the Web. Topping his list is checking to see that a Web site is secure before making a purchase.
Shoppers also can check for icons, such as a padlock symbol, at the bottom of their browser screen.
Shoppers who aren't familiar with the companies they are buying from could request a paper catalog or brochure to get a better idea of the firm's merchandise and services. Checking a company's return policy before making a purchase is another good move, Brammer said. He advises that shoppers use their credit cards for Internet purchases, because those transactions are protected by federal law. Under that law, consumers have the right to dispute charges and withhold payment on the questionable items while the matter is investigated. Brammer said his office hasn't had many complaints from consumers regarding online shopping.