Using your credit or debit card online can be just as safe as using it in shops, and sometimes a lot more convenient!

It is best to stay with names you know and trust or those recommended by others. Examples are: Tesco, Amazon, Marks & Spencer or Wilkinson’s. All these sites will have secure online shopping facilities which will not allow your details to be disclosed or accessed by anyone else. Never put your card details into a page that is not secure i.e. if you can’t see the padlock then do not give your details.

Most reputable companies will provide secure online purchasing as they rely on it for a part of their business. You will also have certain protected rights when using most UK credit cards.

If you enter your details or login to a public access computer (e.g. a computer in a library or day centre) make sure you logout after you finish. Otherwise other people may still be able to access your information or account.

Delivery and Returns of Goods

Most companies will use courier services to deliver their goods except where they are small enough for normal post (such as CD’s). You will need to be at home to sign for the goods; some couriers will only try twice after which you will have a limited amount of time to collect the goods from their depot before they are returned. It is best to check the delivery details before ordering anything online.

Top 10 hints for safe online shopping

• All of your usual shopping rights apply online: you can find these in the CareOnLine ‘Online Shopping’ section or see www.consumerdirect.gov.uk
• Know who you're dealing with: get the seller's landline phone number and postal address
• Be aware of terms and conditions: check payment and delivery details
• Keep records of what you order e.g. print a copy of the sellers order form
• EU Law protects you against fraudulent use of your payment card in EU transactions: credit cards give you extra protection
• Only give your payment card details over a secure connection, and never by email: never disclose your PIN number to anyone, and never send it over the internet to anyone else
• You usually have at least 7 days to cancel an order and request a refund from an EU retailer
• Check your payment card statement carefully: you have at least 90 days to report a suspect transaction
• When you buy goods online from outside the EU:
  - you are classed as an importer and may be liable to pay any Customs Duty and VAT
  - be cautious as it may be difficult if problems arise
• If you have a problem, contact the seller then, if you need to, the payment company, or local Trading Standards Office www.leics.gov.uk/trading-standards

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