How can you safely find the right product in online catalogues? In 2019, Australia alone had over 20 million online shoppers, according to Web alive. Due to this spiking demand, when shopping online at sources like ILikeSales Catalogues you can take steps to make safe and secure purchases. Safety and security should always be prioritised, along with other issues like quality, price, and service. Here are some helpful tips:
Update Software and Virus Protection
These are some of the best steps to take to help prevent online problems when buying through e-commerce sites. For example, make sure you have the latest versions of your web and mobile browser. Doing so will help to provide safe browsing and prevent hack attacks.
Virus protection is another critical issue. For example, over three-quarters of Australians now own smartphones, according to Statista. If you have a smartphone or tablet, pick the best mobile antivirus software. There are several ways your mobile device can get malware.
Read Policies on Returns, Refunds, and Exchanges
These are all essential issues to learn about before buying through an online catalogue. Make sure to read the policies for the e-commerce site itself and retailers offering online catalogues. There’s a chance you’ll want to return items for a refund or exchange. Make sure to find out the specifics about the issues. For example:
- Timeframe to return items for a refund/exchange
- Number of business days usually required to process returns
- Whether shipping costs for returns are covered
Always check if an online retailer or manufacturer offers warranties for their products. The main types are comprehensive and limited warranties. You should also make sure to read the website’s “terms & conditions” page. This page is legalese that includes policies such as refunds and exchanges.
Verify a Website’s Online Security
There are several factors to consider. Make sure the website is on a secure server. You can check this by looking for online catalogues on e-commerce sites whose internet address starts with “https:” Make sure to look for the “s” following “http.”
You should also look for sites that include strong encryption. This includes a big number that’s due to the “cryptographic key.” In general, 256 bits is defined as “strong encryption,” according to PC Mag. This is a critical issue when using payment methods to protect your personal information.
Select Safe Payment Options
In terms of online security, you should also look for e-commerce sites that only accept well-established payment methods. This is another way to help prevent issues like unauthorised purchases and identity theft.
PayPal and similar options provide high-level security since your bank account information isn’t visible to would-be hackers. You’ll be charged an extra fee for such services, but the added security is arguably worthwhile.
Famous credit or debit cards like MasterCard and Visa are also good options. In the case of unauthorised purchases, you’re protected because the physical card wasn’t compromised during online purchases.
Avoid Using Public Wi-Fi
The main benefit of this option is it’s free. On the other hand, it also creates security gaps since it’s easier for hackers to steal information. A standard internet connection is a better option. If you’re in a Wi-Fi hotspot, then consider browsing items but not providing payment information.
While shopping through digital catalogues like ILikeSales Catalogues can be convenient, it’s important to make the process as secure as possible. Keeping issues like return policies, encryption strength, and terms & conditions in mind can help you to increase savings and decrease security vulnerabilities. Shop safely!
Author Bio: Hannah Gilbert is a freelance writer who offers ghostwriting, copywriting, and blogging services. She works closely with B2C and B2B businesses providing digital marketing content that gains social media attention and increases their search engine visibility.