By Debbie Gardner
debbieg@thereminder.com
Prime readers may remember this month’s Three Big Questions expert, Stan Prager, from his May column offering tips and advice on avoiding data breaches like the Equifax and Facebook problems that occurred last spring. This month, the owner and president of GoGeeks Computer Rescue (gogeeks.com), located in East Longmeadow, MA – which specializes in computer repair and manufacture, along with offering personalized instruction on myriad computer programs – tackles the safety concerns surrounding the growing popularity of online holiday shopping.
Prime asked Prager to take a look at three common issues shoppers encounter when making purchases online. Here’s his tips for a happier – and safer – online holiday shopping experience!
Q: With so many online shopping sites available, how can you be sure that the site you are using is legitimate – not a fake or a clone – and secure?
“Obviously, the safest course is to shop online with known entities. But there are plenty of products advertised online from unfamiliar vendors. In that case, Google search the product and the vendor and look for reviews.
“Also, make sure you already set up a PayPal account and try to only shop with those unfamiliar vendors that accept PayPal, which will protect your payment and privacy.
“Finally, if that is impossible, if you do use a credit card try to designate a single credit card you will utilize for online transactions, so you can track and monitor your purchases. Never use a credit card that is also a debit card linked to your bank account!”
Q: When you do shop online, what is the best way to do so securely?
Is it safe to use the library or coffee shop’s free Wi-Fi when you shop?
“Never use free public Wi-Fi for any transactions that involve logging into your accounts or making online purchases. This is not secure. You can ‘shop’ on public Wi-Fi, but don’t make the purchase – bookmark the product or email yourself a link so you can place the order when you are home on your own secure home network.“
Q: What are some of the other best practices consumers can adopt for safer online shopping throughout the holiday season?
“Most best practices are the same as when shopping in brick-and-mortar stores: What is the return policy? What are the terms? For online, look for policies on return shipping costs; also, if the online purchase is from a retailer who also has a brick–and-mortar facility, can the item be returned to the store or only via return shipment.
“Always be sure to check shipping costs before you place the order. A plethora of sites tout free shipping – but the catch is that you have to spend a certain amount, or choose a certain shipping schedule. Make sure you know about all costs first, before you push send.
“Set up a PayPal account linked to your bank account – and a credit card you use just for online ordering – for maximum security when shopping online. Always use PayPal if an online retailer accepts it.
“Finally, always check reviews for products and vendors BEFORE you place the order. If most reviewers had a positive experience, then you are likely to have one, as well. If many reviewers had problems—steer clear!“
