Shop Smart on the Internet

• Read the customer service section of Web site
  for return/exchange policies and merchandise information. Items are sometimes not returnable.
• Ask questions.
  Learn the details of "special offers" and "trial periods".
• Find out about ordering deadlines.
  To meet delivery times during peak shopping periods, many catalog companies impose a cut-off date.
• Check the delivery schedule and shipping options.
  Companies that sell items such as perishable foods and flowers may provide special delivery information.
• Keep organized records.
  Fill out the order form even if you're ordering by phone or online. Note any special requests you have made.
• Never give out personal information.
  Do not provide your bank account number, Social Security number or Internet password when ordering. Your credit card number and expiration date are all a merchant should need.
• Never send cash through the mail.
  Pay by a credit card. You'll be covered under the Fair Credit Billing Act in the event of fraud.
• When online, shop on a secure site.
  Look for the URL (the "Web address") when you reach the "checkout" page. If the URL starts with "https://", it means that the document is coming from a secure server. Depending on your browser, an icon of either an unbroken lock or key will appear in the lower left corner of your screen. This ensures that your order information is encrypted while in transit.
• Keep a record of your order.
  Print out the order from and keep it in case you have questions.
• Keep your receipts, product packaging and literature
  until you are sure you are satisfied with your purchase. If the merchandise arrives damaged or is incorrect, contact the company immediately. In most cases, they will have the order picked up from your home or office at their expense and send you a replacement immediately.
• Trust your instincts.
  If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is.