Safely enjoy the convenience of shopping online this holiday season.

Want to avoid the crowds this year when it’s time for holiday shopping?

Consider shopping online. It can save you money and is easier and safer than ever before, as long as you take a few simple precautions.

1. First and foremost, ensure the computer you’re using is secure. It should be running the most up-to-date operating system and anti-virus software.
2. Don’t provide your social security number. Online retailers don’t require it. If they ask for it, that’s a red flag.
3. Make sure the website is secure before entering your personal information. The URL should begin with “https://”. The “S” means that the site is secure and that your information will be encrypted.
4. Use a credit card or other payment method that isn’t directly linked to your bank account. Federal law protects you in case of charges to your credit card that result from identity theft.
5. Shop around. Don’t assume a major online merchant has the lowest price on the item you’re looking for.
   
6. Read the fine print. Be aware of policies governing returns and canceled orders, and how to dispute a charge. Also, find out ahead of time whether you will be charged sales tax. One of online shopping’s many benefits is lack of sales tax, but if you’re buying from a seller based in your state, you might be required to pay the taxman.

Ready to shop? Head to Dollar General’s comprehensive Online Shopping Customer Support Area for answers to other questions you might have about online shopping.

Sources:
http://www.bbb.org/us/article/protect-your-identity-dont-get-phished-43929
https://www.privacyrights.org/fs/fs23-shopping.htm

Dollar General is not responsible for the content above and disclaims all liability therefrom. Dollar General does not sponsor, recommend or endorse any third party, product, service, or information provided on this site. All content provided herein is for educational purposes only. It is provided “as is” and neither the author, Dollar General nor Triad Digital Media, LLC d/b/a Triad Retail Media warrant the accuracy of the information provided, nor do they assume any responsibility for errors, omissions or contrary interpretation of the subject matter herein.