Greener online shopping is a perfect way to help conserve our natural resources while shopping in the comfort of our home. It saves time, money, and energy regardless of physical location. However, it is important to experience greener online shopping by taking security precautions.
Know the Dangers
Greener online shopping is an option for consumers who may be stressed for time because of home and work obligations. However, some consumers are unaware of the possible dangers of online shopping. Some of these dangers are identity thieves who clean out your financial accounts while creating ongoing legal problems, computer hackers who sell personal information, and unprofessional business people who want a quick sale.
How to Find Reputable Store
Online shopping can be a great option for saving time and money while preserving our natural resouces by taking basic steps. First, shop at reputable stores. Look for brand name stores with a full range of products and services, a clear explanation of rates/fees, about us page, a privacy page to explain how gathered personal/financial information is used, a contact us page with a physical address and telephone number, and a money-back guarantee
Best Payment Options
Second, determine which payment options are allowed for purchases. Most reputable stores provide mulitple payment options so each should be considered based on your preferences and these may include credit cards, debit cards, Paypal, and/or a pay later option. The best is a credit card since a consumer may dispute the charge. A debit card takes money from an existing bank account so the money is immediately used. Meanwhile, Paypal uses a bank account or credit/debit cards without giving specific account information. Last, the pay later option is relatively new (you receive a bill at a later date) but few stores offer this option.
Credit cards offer the greatest security with the best option to dispute charges for defective or never received products/services.
How Safe is the Transaction?
Also, the website should use a secure sockets layer certificate (SSL) which scrambles the financial information during the purchase and keeps your information safer. When you reach the website's checkout page, the address bar showing the "http" in the URL (Uniform Resources Locator) should change to "https". Also, a closed padlock or key should appear on the page to confirm your personal information will be scrambled/encrypted.
Check the website for third-party verification devices, such as Verisign (transaction verification), TRUSTe (protects against website hackers) ,or the Better Business Bureau.
Tracking Multiple Purchases
Last, If you make purchases from multiple stores, you should follow the simple guidelines for each one and make a copy/print of your receipts using both sides of paper. This is important so you know the dates, times, and money spent on each purchase. Also, write down the name, local time, and date when you contact the customer service department for any questions or confirming information.
Online shopping can be safer with basic steps such as using a credit card, purchasing from reputable stores, checking the website for possible fraud, and keeping track of your purchases. By using greener shopping options, our natural environment can be enjoyed by us and by generations to come.