Before I Buy Stuff On The Internet I Always Follow These Rules

This is a check-list that I use before making any purchase on the Internet.  It is not intended as advice it’s just the procedure I use to ensure I stand the smallest chance of being ripped off.

1. Is the purchase over $20 including shipping and handling.  If it’s over $20 I will not buy it on the day I see it I will usually leave it until the next day and maybe do a little bit of research. Then if I still think it’s a good idea I’ll buy it.
2. I always look for contact customer support telephone numbers on the site.  I then ring the number before I buy to make sure a real person answers the phone.  That way I can be sure if I need to return the goods I can talk directly to somebody at the company.
3. Before entering my credit card details into any form on the website I’ll check to make sure they using a secure site.  You can usually tell by the little padlock that will appear in your web browser.
4. I always use a credit card.  My favourite type is one of the prepaid credit cards that way I know the maximum amount any one can withdraw.
5. I always check very very carefully the sign up page and subsequent pages for any hidden up-sells like recurring subscriptions or any other items that I don’t want.
6. Make a note of the credit card you used, the date and the amount requested.
7. As soon as possible when your credit card statement arrives verify you were charged the correct amount of money and ensure there are no other transactions you don’t recognize.

If the item is over $20 and the offer states that you can try the goods for 30 days and then return them if I don’t want them check the returns policy.  You will often find it’ll cost you over $30 to ship the goods back.  That’s assuming after contacting them you can actually cancel your order.  Trust me trying to get the returns number out of some of these companies is like trying to get water out of a stone.

Most of the companies that sell products and services on-line are ethical and want to ensure their customers are happy.  But it always pays to be prepared remember proper planning prevents poor performance.