Online shopping is easy once you know the basics. The following helpful hints will enable you to have a convenient and enjoyable online shopping experience.

• Shop with merchants you know and trust

  
  Dealing with merchants you already know can make your online shopping experience easier since you already know the merchandise and policies of the store. You can also find out about merchants by visiting their Web sites and reading their guarantees, warranties, and return policies. Don't hesitate to contact the Better Business Bureau's BBBOnLine® and other consumer agencies for information about specific merchants.

• Add shipping and handling to the total cost

  
  When calculating the final cost of a purchase, don't forget shipping and handling charges. If you're doing business with a merchant located in another state or country, taxes and international costs may apply. Before you buy, check the merchant site for a description of what charges will apply to your purchase - you may be able to save money by purchasing multiple items at once or by taking advantage of special promotions.

• Look for signs of security

  
  Look for clues indicating whether a merchant site is secure. Symbols like an unbroken lock or key, a URL that begins https://, or the words Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) mean that no one but you and the merchant can view your payment information. Some merchants also ask you to create a personal account that requires a password. This is a secure method as long as you create passwords that are hard for others to guess (avoid numbers like your birth date, phone number, or social security number), always keep your passwords private, and change them often.

• Protect your privacy

  
  As you shop online, be aware of how various Web sites use your personal information. Make a point of reading a site's privacy policy to find out what type of information is captured and how it is used. If you don't see a privacy policy, send the company an email request for one.

• Never send payment information via email.

  
  Information that travels over the email is not fully protected from being read by outside parties. All reputable merchant sites use encryption technologies that will protect your private data from being read by others as you conduct an online transaction. When you pay online, make sure that you are using a secure browser (see Look for signs of security section above), and always look for the merchant's privacy policy and an explanation of how your personal information will be protected.

• Keep a record of your transaction.

  
  Just as you save receipts when you've made a purchase at a store, you should also keep records of your Internet purchases. Make a habit of backing up your transaction by saving and/or printing the online confirmation of your order. These records are just like receipts you'd get in a store.

• Use common sense and take your time.

  
  Shopping on the Internet offers many advantages, from the convenience of shopping at home to the ability to locate rare collectibles. As you explore the world of electronic commerce, don't underestimate your common sense. Take your time, have fun, and know that while good bargains exist on the Internet, some offers may be too good to be true. If you're uncertain about a particular site, keep surfing - there are many good products available over the Internet from respected merchants

• Read shipping, return, and privacy policies.

  
  Before completing an online transaction, be sure to read the delivery and return policies on the merchant's Web site. Check to see whether the return policy is clear, how long the process should take, and if you'll get a refund or credit if you return your merchandise. Read the privacy policy to see how your personal information will be used. The most reliable online merchants will always make this information easily available.

• Never provide your credit card number as proof of your age.

  
  At times, certain merchants may request that you provide your Tech CU VISA Credit Card number as a proof of age. Never give a merchant this information, because a card number does not verify one's age.

• Get the facts on Internet gambling.

  
  Internet gambling may be illegal in your jurisdiction. Since Tech CU VISA Credit Cards and VISA check cards may only be used for legal transactions, you should confirm whether your jurisdiction allows gambling before paying with your Tech CU VISA Credit Card or VISA check card. The display of a payment card logo by an online merchant does not mean that Internet gambling transactions are lawful in all jurisdictions in which cardholders are located.

• Do research before making purchases.

  
  The Internet allows you to search the world for everyday items, try before you buy, and comparison-shop to find the best deals. Shopping online can help you narrow choices and locate items that are out of stock at your local stores. Access to product reviews and other online information can enhance your knowledge and help you make a more informed decision.

• Look for rewards/incentives when shopping online.

  
  Most online merchants are eager to welcome you to this method of shopping. Look for benefits like free shipping, sales tax exemption, and complimentary merchandise as a reward for your purchases. You may also find special frequent shopper programs, awards, bonuses, and promotions by shopping online. Some merchants even reward customers for shopping with their VISA cards!