Online shopping is easy and convenient. You can buy almost anything without leaving your house. But, there are also some risks. The good news is, you can protect yourself if you follow a few simple tips.

Shop on a secure network

Try to shop from your home Wi-Fi. Avoid using public Wi-Fi or public computers, like the ones in libraries or cafes. These places are not very safe and can put your personal information at risk.

Check for HTTPS
Before entering any payment information, look at the website address. A safe website will have a lock symbol and start with “https.” This means the site uses a secure connection. If you don’t see this, don’t type in your credit card details.

Research the seller

Not all websites are trustworthy. Anyone can create a website to sell things. Always check if the seller is real. Look for contact information, like a phone number or address. Read customer reviews on trusted sites like Google or Yelp.

Use safe payment methods
Credit cards are one of the safest ways to pay online. Try not to use bank transfers, wire services, or send cash. You can also use secure payment services like PayPal or Google Wallet. These services add an extra layer of protection.

Save your receipts
Always keep a copy of your purchase. Save the order number, price, product details, and confirmation email. These can help if something goes wrong with your order.

Trust your gut

If something feels off, it probably is. Be careful with deals that seem too good to be true. If you don’t feel comfortable, don’t buy it.

By following these simple steps, you can enjoy online shopping and stay safe at the same time.