Online sales are continuing to grow with many companies forecasting growth in the next 2 years of between 50% and 100% growth in their online sales in the next 2 years.
But what can you do to make sure you are not a victim of an online scam?
Do not make payments by credit card or debit card unless you use a secure web site to enter the card information. You should look for a padlock symbol in the bottom right of the browser window and for the website address to begin with 'https and preferably use a credit not a debit card as this gives you more protection and stops a fraudster emptying your bank account.
However, the padlock is not an absolute guarantee of safety. If you get a warning about a certificate be very cautious. The padlock is no guarantee that the the business is trading ethically.
Also if possible if it is an unknown company to you do a quick check on the web to see if you can get hold of their latest accounts as just because they have a website does not mean they are paying their supplies and have the stock.
To try and prevent problems
Try to buy from merchants and online stores thatyou know or who are showing good reviews on other website sites as sometimes it is worth questioning how they can be 50% cheaper than anyone else! (but yes bargains can be had)
If they do not have a physical address and telephone contact details ask yourself why? And if you did have a problem how would you contact them? Check what the returns policy is in the website. Be even more cautious if buying from overseas companies.
And Finally - Never give card payment detail unless there is an appropriate, safe means of online payment.