Five tips for safe online shopping

Shopping online in Australia has surged in recent years: More than 80% of Aussies shopped online post-pandemic — and that number is expected to grow.¹ But how many considered their online safety?

To shop safely online, consider the below best practices:

• Knowing your rights as a buyer.
• Using safe online shopping websites.
• Viewing privacy statements.
• Verifying company contact information.
• Checking online reviews to make safe purchases.

Read on to learn more.

1.Know your rights as a buyer

Safe online shopping starts with knowing your rights as a buyer.

Here are some tips for online shopping and buyer protection:

• Consumer rights: Generally, the products you purchase online should meet the requirements under consumer protection laws.²
• Transparent pricing: Online sellers are typically required to display the total price of goods or services, including any additional charges such as shipping fees or taxes.³
• Secure payment: Online stores should provide secure payment options to protect your financial information.
• Privacy and data protection: Online businesses are required to handle your personal information in accordance with applicable privacy laws.
• Dispute resolution: If you encounter problems with a purchase, you can seek a resolution. You could consider contacting the seller directly, or you may use alternative dispute resolution methods with relevant consumer protection agencies.
• Report unauthorised charges or payments: If you notice unauthorised charges or suspect fraudulent activity on your bank card or account, you can consider reporting it to your financial services provider and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s Scamwatch website.

2.Consider using safe websites

Using safe online shopping websites can provide increased protection when making purchases in the digital world.

You could consider the below factors when trying to determine if a website is safe and legitimate:

• Secure connection: Shop from websites with a secure connection, indicated by a padlock icon in the browser's address bar (usually accompanied by "https" in the URL). This can help ensure that personal and financial details are encrypted and protected.
• Return and refund policies: Legitimate businesses will normally have clear and fair return and refund policies.
• Trusted payment methods: Reliable online businesses will likely offer trusted payment methods. Be cautious of websites that only accept unconventional payment methods or ask for direct bank transfers.
• Professional website design: While not a foolproof measure, a professionally designed website may suggest that a business is reputable and invested in providing a positive user experience.
• Trustmarks and certifications: Look for trust marks or certifications, indicating that the business has undergone security and reliability assessments by reputable third-party organisations.

3.Read and understand privacy statements

Carefully review the privacy statement when shopping online. Generally, businesses are legally required to disclose how they collect, use, store, and protect personal data.⁴

This can help provide insight into how the business handles information, whether it’s shared with third parties, and the security measures in place to safeguard customer data.

4.Look for the address and phone number of the business

Legitimate businesses will normally provide clear and accessible contact information, including things such as a physical address (if applicable), phone number, and email.

If a business address seems suspicious or does not match the nature of the business, it may indicate fraud. Likewise, confirming a valid phone number and reaching out to enquire about the business may provide peace of mind.

5.Consider checking online reviews

Reviews can provide insight into current or past customer’s experience with a business. This may help a potential customer to gauge the reputation and reliability of a business. Typically, if other shoppers have had negative incidents with a specific company — including fraud — they might post about it online to warn others.

By taking the right precautions, it is possible to buy with confidence, protect your shopping, and enjoy safe online shopping without compromising your security.