College students are constantly on the go. There is often no time to run out and shop for clothes or necessities. That is why online shopping is so successful among those in our demographic. Students can stay right where they are and order what they need online. However, shopping online can present some negative outcomes if you are not careful about how you are shopping. Here are some ways you can maximize and keep your online shopping experience pleasant:
Make sure the site you use is safe.
There is always the chance you can be scammed. You should start at a trusted site rather than shopping with a search engine. Search results are often sponsored and can lead you astray, especially when you wander on past the first few pages. If you know the site you are on and others you know you use it as well, chances are you are less likely to get ripped off. Everyone knows that Amazon carries everything under the sun.
Never buy anything online using your credit from a site that does not have SSL (secure locks layer) installed.
One major scam is the offer of a free product with purchase, for example, an iPad or even a job offer. You will see many of these “offers” on social media sites. Be skeptical of various offers that your friends might send you. This will go a long way in saving you from a stolen card number.
Make sure to regularly check your credit card statement for any discrepancies.
Don’t wait for your bill to come to you at the end of the month. You should be regularly looking at your electric statements for your credit card, debit card, and checking accounts, especially during the holiday season. If you see anything out of the ordinary, call the bank immediately. Sometimes when you buy a product online, it sneaks it in the fact that it will continue to charge your card every month. Take it from experience, read the fine print.