What are some tips for Internet auction sellers?

Browse before you buy

The internet is a great place to compare prices. Instead of going out to search the shops, you can do virtually everything without leaving home. Before you buy, take a look at different websites to find exactly what you want and get details of prices. Visa, MasterCard and American Express® are widely accepted at websites around the world and using your Lloyds TSB credit card on the internet can be as easy as shopping on the high street.

Shop with companies you know, or ones that have a good reputation

Take care with the information you give out over the internet. Don't give your personal details, bank account numbers or credit card details to a company you don't know or haven't checked out.

Check the delivery and returns policy before you buy

The delivery and returns policy should tell you about the cost and method of delivery along with the return and refund details. Remember that returning goods to overseas suppliers may be expensive. Many websites will also have a frequently asked questions (FAQs) page that you can read if you have any problems or queries.

Watch for additional charges

Sometimes charges such as VAT, customs duties, delivery and packaging may be hidden.

Be aware of where the company is located

When purchasing from a company within Europe you may still be protected by some of your consumer rights under UK law, regardless of which country's laws are said to be applicable in the contract. If something goes wrong when purchasing from outside Europe it is likely to be more difficult and/or expensive to put things right.

Be careful when buying from private sellers

Be aware that when buying from private sellers your legal rights may not be the same as when you are dealing with a business. Always make sure you know who you are buying from so you can make an informed choice.

Always use a secure website for any payment transactions

You'll know that a site is secure when you see a symbol appear on screen. Also, a secure website's address will normally begin https:// instead of http:// - the "s" standing for secure. A secure connection ensures that your personal details are encrypted before being sent from your computer over the internet. This protects your credit card details from being seen by anybody else on the internet.
An intact key or padlock = secure
A broken key or padlock = not secure

Never send your credit card details in an email

Email cannot be encrypted and secured, so your credit card details are not safe in an email. Although unlikely, it is possible for someone to view emails sent over the internet.

Keep any internet passwords secret

If you register with a site or store you'll be asked to choose a password. Just as you keep your PIN (Personal Identification Number) secret, you should never reveal your password to anyone else; and of course you should never give your credit card details to any other person for use on the internet.

Keep a record of all your online transactions

When you enter your details on screen, print off the page and keep it safe, or save it on your hard drive. You should also keep details of the offer and the small print because information on the website may change after you make a purchase. Then if you have any queries about your order, or you need to return or exchange an item you'll have confirmation of your order and the offer. Many companies will also email you to confirm your order, so print and keep this also.

Check your monthly credit card statements for transactions you do not recognise

Remember to check your monthly credit card statements for transactions made over the internet. You need to be aware that some company names which appear on your statement may differ from their website names.

First answer by anonymous. Last edit by Praveen.design2. Contributor trust: 1 [recommend contributor]. Question popularity: 176 [recommend question]