common sense shopping tips

before you buy

When shopping online

1. Become familiar with the merchant's terms of sale, including shipping costs, return policies and accepted payment methods.
2. Always verify the validity of any third-party endorsements that a merchant claims to have (i.e. guarantees, payment providers, escrow services)
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3. If you are unsure about a product or transaction, communicate with the merchant by phone or e-mail before making any payment. The inability to correspond with a seller is a bad sign.
4. Make sure that the merchant from whom you are purchasing has a good reputation.

while you buy

During checkout and payment

1. Only pay using methods that protect your information as a buyer; some examples are credit cards and PayPal
2. Avoid sharing personal information like credit card and social security numbers with people who are not reputable
3. When online, only share personal information over a secure server
4. Avoid sending money orders to people outside of the country or who do not offer other forms of protection like a third-party guarantee
5. Ask for a tracking number on all shipments

after you buy

After payment

1. Communicate with the merchant about the status of your transaction
2. Verify that what was sent is what you paid for
3. Save all records of communication with a seller until you receive the product that you paid for