Many of us prefer to shop online. We prefer logging on to the internet rather than go to the local mall, which is often crowded.

However, when it comes to online shopping, whether you are actually buying, just browsing or comparing prices and products, it’s fun, fast and easy. The only part that you need to be careful about is the security measures while making purchases and fund transfers. If one is careful and uses a few smart shopping tips and security tools, then shopping online can be just as safe as shopping at a mall.

There are certain things which you need to know when it comes to online shopping and making monetary transactions.

These dos and don’ts should be kept in mind while making purchases using coupon codes, promo codes and several sites offering online cash back and rebates.

Dos:

Basic background check: If you are shopping on a website for the first time, take a moment to read about the website. Before clicking on “buy”, read the terms and conditions that are given in tiny fonts before the purchase and monetary transactions happen.

If you are using coupon codes, promo codes or cash back, then you should be more careful in reading the conditions. There are many sites that have offers like “Buy 2 get 3 free**”. In such cases, always check out for terms and conditions associated with the “**” because, in most cases, the so called freebies cost a lot more than the items that you actually purchase.

Pay by credit or debit card: Online payment services offer some protection as well. While making your online payments, you should always choose to pay through your credit card because it increases the degree of security. Credit/debit card issuers generally provide the user with purchase insurance which can save your money if you do not get your item delivered.

Buy from an encrypted website: An encrypted website secures your fund transfers by coding your personal information. Look for the padlock symbol either in the address bar or the status bar (usually in the address bar) but not within the web page display area. Verify the security certificate by clicking on the padlock.

Read policies before purchase: It is a good idea to read terms and conditions and website policies before making any purchase online. A secured and trusted website always disclaims their policies in direct and obvious words. Never jump to buy the products without reading policies of the online seller.

Use latest computer security tools: Your computer system should always be equipped with the latest anti-virus and security tools that effectively prevent malware and spyware from damaging your system.

Always check your bill statements for purchases made: It is important that you always check your credit card or bank account statement to reconfirm the amount you paid for the online purchase.

Don’ts:

Buy from spammers: Be alert to those e-mails that give you instant cash back and discounts on providing credit card information. These are generally spammers and scammers looking for some quick bucks. These are always risky deals.

Pay by cash or direct bank transfer: Try to avoid paying by a direct account to account transfer or cash until and unless it is inevitable. This process would directly transfer funds from your bank account and there is no liability of the bank if there is a fraud.

Buy from uncertified websites: Your personal and financial information should not be at risk at any point. Don’t compromise and buy from uncertified websites where hackers are waiting to track your information to deceive you.

Buy from a website that you’re not comfortable with: If it looks too good to be true, it probably is. At any time you don’t feel comfortable buying from the website, abort the process right there.

Forget to scrutinise your new purchase on delivery: As soon as you receive your order, check it thoroughly and if you find any defect, communicate the problem to your seller immediately for replacements or refunds.