Shopping on line cannot only save money over department store prices, but also eliminate the need for going to crowded malls and stores, especially during the holidays. However, it’s important to make sure that your online purchases are safe and secure from cyber thieves. Here are a few tips to making your online purchases as safe as possible.

Before making any online purchase check with your credit card company to make sure you have adequate fraud protection in the event a hacker does get your information.

The first thing to look for while shopping online is a logo or icon that resembles a closed padlock or a key. All reputable websites will have this icon as well as a web address that begins with “https” rather than just “http” denoting that your connection to their site is secure.

Make sure that the online store you are using has contact information such as a phone number or a customer service email address, and that all charges are clearly explained including shipping charges and taxes. After your purchase, check your credit card records to make sure you have been charged the correct price, and print and save any invoice or confirmation email from the merchant.The information doesn’t stop now. Keep looking: Occupy the Web Hackathon (in San Francisco this Weekend)

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