The Better Business Bureau and Visa offered tips in 2004 for people shopping through online retailers, auction sites or travel agencies.

The Better Business Bureau and Visa offered tips in 2004 for people shopping through online retailers, auction sites or travel agencies.
Shop only at Internet merchants you know and trust, and if in doubt, check with the BBB.
Be careful of e-mails offering cut-rate prices on popular toys and other gifts.
If you receive an unsolicited e-mail from an Internet merchant, don't click the links within it. Locate the merchant's Web site address through a reputable search engine.
Check Internet merchants' refund policies; some merchants set a deadline for returns or charge a fee to accept returned items.
Pay with a credit or debit card and for extra protection, enroll your card in anti-fraud programs.
Don't share passwords with anyone and use different passwords with different Web sites.
Protect private information. When shopping online, look for the retailer's Web site privacy policy and never provide your Social Security number, birth date or mother's maiden name.
Ensure your computer has the latest anti-virus software installed before shopping online.
Always print and save the confirmation page when completing an on-line purchase.
Don't wait for paper statements. Check credit card and bank statements for suspicious activity by either calling the bank or visiting its Web site.