Maintain privacy when shopping online

With a click of the mouse shoppers can get their hands on groceries, books, cars and diamond rings. For the most part this availability is exciting and convenient. However, the downside to the online shopping industry is the potential for your private information to leak out into the wrong hands. Your credit card number, for example has the potential to reach the hand of an identity theft. So to be sure that you are protecting your privacy while still engaging in some leisurely afternoon shopping, here are some tips:

Shop at Secure Web Sites

• if you look at the address bar while shopping the address should start with https:// the "s" after http stands for secure.
• Also, look for the closed padlock displayed at the bottom of the screen. If the lock is opened, your site is not secure.
• An unbroken key is another indication of a secure website.

Research the Site Before You Order

• You may want to order an inexpensive item right away, if the site is unfamiliar to you.
• Look for a physical address on the site. Reputable sites will have a hub with a real city and a real zip code.
• The Better Business Bureau provides a list of trusted online vendors.

Don't Disclose your Social Security Number

• Enough said.

Shop with a Credit Card

• If something goes wrong, you are protected under the Credit Billing Act.
• E-checks and money orders don't give any protection if something goes wrong.