Stick to reputable websites with a good track record. Look for familiar logos and URLs you recognize.
Make sure the website uses a secure sockets layer (SSL) connection. This is indicated by a padlock icon in the address bar and a URL that begins with "https://" instead of "http://".
Don't click on links or attachments in emails from unknown senders, especially if they appear to be from a legitimate company. Phishing emails often try to trick you into revealing personal information or clicking on malicious links.
Avoid using the same password for multiple websites. A strong password should be at least 12 characters long and include a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
Public Wi-Fi networks are not secure and can be easily hacked. If you must shop online while on public Wi-Fi, use a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your traffic.
If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers often use this tactic to lure people in.
See what other customers have to say about the product and the seller. This can help you avoid scams and get a better idea of the quality of the product.
Credit cards offer better protection against fraud than debit cards. If your credit card information is stolen, you can usually dispute the charges and get your money back.
Save copies of your order confirmations and receipts for your records. This will help you if you need to track your order or return an item.
Before you make a purchase, be sure to read the seller's return policy. This will let you know what your options are if you need to return an item.