The Guide to Safe Online Purchases

You might be tempted to have a go at your first online purchase. If you have friends and relatives living abroad, it probably makes geographic sense to purchase a gift from a shop close to its final destination. Stories of goods purchased for a fraction of price these are available locally as well as the keen enthusiasm of certain groups of individuals who compare "bargains" they just found and the handling out of links may entice a newbie to take the plunge. Fear of being ripped off, of ending up with a dud, of using a credit card on the internet or of making a mistake during the transaction may prevent some from joining the e-commerce community.

If you follow the following guidelines you can make internet purchasing a pleasant experience and practically eliminate the risks associated with this type of commerce:

1. Understand what you are purchasing.

Read carefully the description accompanying the item. Is its condition new or used? Does it work, or is it being sold for parts? Where is the minor scratch or slight dent situated? Is this an auction or is it a normal sale? If the web site allows purchasers to rate the seller and pass comments about their own shopping experience read these reviews.