Cyber Buys Could Mean Real-time Trouble

Friday, May 2, 2008

LITTLE ROCK – With many Arkansans attending multiple weddings and graduations this time of year, consumers will not only go to local stores to purchase gifts but they will also shop online. In fact, most wedding registries are accessible via the Internet. While online shopping is a modern convenience that most of us utilize regularly and without incident, there are pitfalls of which Arkansans need to be aware. Accordingly, Attorney General Dustin McDaniel issued this alert today to help consumers shop safer online.

"With more people using the Internet, including more unscrupulous people, consumers need to take extra precautions to ensure they get in reality what they pay for in cyberspace," said McDaniel.

According to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center, fraud committed over the Internet cost the Americans more than $239 million last year, a new record high. If you are contemplating purchasing something online, or already do so frequently, here are some tips to remember:

- Make sure the Web site is secure before you input any personal or financial information. A secure Web site is denoted by "https" in the address line or a golden lock icon on the page.
- When possible, make online payments with a credit card, which will typically offer more protection if you need to dispute a charge. Then, remember to promptly review your monthly statement to assure yourself that all charges are legitimate and accurate.
- Read the fine print. Take time to review the Web site's policy regarding refunds, dispute resolutions and the privacy of your information. You can also contact the Better Business Bureau based in the company's city to see if other consumers have made complaints against it. If you are purchasing something on an auction site, be sure to thoroughly research the seller and his or her past transaction records.
- Never wire money for online purchases.

For more tips on how to shop safely online, visit the Federal Trade Commission's Web site, http://www.ftc.gov/, or contact the Public Protection Department of the Attorney General's Office at (501) 682-2341 or toll-free statewide (800) 482-8982.