Tip #1: Shop Around and Check the Retail Price

Don't instantly believe that a "cheapest prices on the net" or "huge discount" claim is true. Ring around before you shop online, find out the actual retail price of a product or service.

Just like "shopping around" in a department store to find the best price, it pays to do the same online - and it's not as tiring!

If you're purchasing a rare or used item, consult collectors or other experts to determine whether or not you are really getting a "huge discount".

A little research could save a lot of money!

Tip #2: Check for Hidden Costs

Read the fine print! Make sure you're aware of all the shipping and handling fees you will be charged - the prices you must pay for the convenience of shopping from home.

Also check to see if you will incur costs if you are unsatisfied with your purchase(s) and wish to return merchandise.

If you can't find all these "hidden costs" clearly explained on a site, take your business elsewhere.

Tip #3: Get Shipping Policies in Writing

Unless the information is readily provided, request that a company tell you (in writing) how long your order will take to arrive. Companies must live up to delivery-time promises or forfeit your money.

Be particularly wary of companies who refuse to provide you with shipping times.

Tip #4: Find a Good Warranty

If you're buying big-ticket items, it's important to ensure you're paying for not only a high quality item, but a decent warranty as well. Things do go wrong, and it's times like that you need a guarantee!

Warranties on expensive items should last a year, include parts and labor, and should include a period of "money back guarantee - no questions asked."

Also check to see whether you will be charged shipping costs if you need to return an item for repairs, how long you will have to wait, what kind of replacement policy a company offers.

A good warranty can save a lot of frustration in the future!

Tip #5: Avoid Illegal or Questionable Products

Don't think that internet transactions are either anonymous or untraceable. Protect yourself by never purchasing illegal items, nor any item that you aren't completely sure of its legality.

If a company is in the business of selling infringing items, do you really want to trust them with your credit card details?

Tip #6: Avoid Unreliable Vendors and Conartists

If you're thinking of buying from a company you've never heard of, check for a physical mailing address and phone number. Email the company and request this information if you can't find it. If they can't supply the information, be suspicious!

It's also wise to check fraud-alert websites. Ask around in relevant newsgroups if other people have dealt with a particular company. It's safe to select a store in the Jumbomall, because help is readily available!

It can sometimes be far easier to believe cons on the internet than you would in person. Treat websites and other internet users as you would treat a complete stranger in the street.

Don't hand over cash before you've been supplied with a suitable amount of information. And never fall victim to pressure buying.

Don't trust companies that ask for highly personal information and remember - there are no reliable "get rich quick" schemes.

Tip #7: Protect Your Privacy

When buying online, you will be asked to submit personal details including your email address, postal address and credit card number. Unless a site has a privacy policy, it is within its legal rights to sell this personal information.

Look for a privacy policy on a site, and take the time to read it all. If a site has no privacy policy, expect to receive junk mail and/or spam if you provide your contact details.

Tip #8: Always Pay by Credit Card

With credit cards, loss due to fraud is limited to $50 and most credit card companies will cover your loss. Consumer protection also allows you to challenge charges for unsatisfactory merchandise. Cheques and money orders offer no such protection, and mailing cash is incredibly risky.

Serious net shoppers should consider a separate credit card for e-commerce. Keeping your e-commerce transactions separate makes it easier to track unauthorized charges.

Tip #9: Check Site Security

Never submit your credit card details over an insecure site. Furthermore, don't simply believe that because a site claims to be secure, that it is. Check your browser - a small, locked padlock somewhere on the base of your browser will indicate that a site is secure. A https:// URL also indicates a secure server.

Stick with well-known merchants. Some sites have been discovered to store credit card details on readily accessible public servers after collecting information securely. Be careful!

Tip #10: Keep Your Records

It's important to keep a hard-copy of all records of transactions you make online. Also print out any guarantees the company provides regarding shipping time, return policies and customer service. File any receipts or other paperwork the company mails to you.

All this paper will come in handy if things go wrong, or if a company changes their policies halfway through a transaction.

Shop safe, shop smart - and enjoy your online shopping experience! :~)