. The Internet is an incredible environment, probably the most vast and exciting manmade environment ever created. Users of the Internet should however pay due care and attention to the integrity of web sites they choose to visit. The Internet is no different to any other in this respect - due diligence just makes commonsense. Previously however it has been impossible to access independent verification of a sites integrity - such information has simply not existed, and still doesn't outside Safe2Shop. Many web sites use cookies to track visitors and to enable their site to be loaded far quicker on subsequent visits, many also use them to leave information on your computer which will identify you as a previous visitor or customer - in many instances then making placing subsequent orders a far easier process. When used legitimately for such purposes cookies present no threat to Users, their computer systems or their privacy. Indeed when shopping on Non "Adult Only" or "Gaming" sites it is advisable to have cookies enabled as they make the process simpler and more convenient for you - indeed some shopping sites will not operate properly without the use of cookies. However - Users would be well advised to disable cookies in Windows Explorer Properties before venturing on to any "Adult Only" or "Gaming" sites as most use cookies for other purposes which DO invade your privacy. Examples would be writing cookies to your hard drive which constantly prompt the opening of web sites that they seek to promote - pages from porn sites opening for no apparent reason would be a typical example. Should this occur you should "Delete Cookies" in Windows Explorer Properties. Whilst Safe2Shop will never claim that web sites that do not carry the Safe2Shop Seal of Approval are not safe or adequately administered, limiting your purchases wherever possible to those sites that are Approved will keep you firmly in the comfort zone WHENEVER making a purchase online Users are well advised to make a printout of all information relevant to the placing of an order at the time of placing the order. Remember - it is not always possible to step backwards on screen to individual parts of the ordering process particularly if the process moved on to a new page - and almost never once you close the page on which the order is confirmed - confirm and print immediately - should be the byword. Specifically - ALWAYS take a printout when the web site advises you to do so - this is symptomatic with your not being able to return to that view at a later stage. Always file carefully (take a printout if necessary for security) all correspondence from a Merchant, particulary the Confirmation of Order. That email defines what you have purchased, the total price you have been charged and delivery details. If what you have purchased is to be delivered online, as if you had purchased some software or images for example, it will also contain instructions on how to download the product to your computer. IF there are ANY problems with an order ALWAYS notify the Merchant immediately the problem arises - time is of the essence - as in any form of purchasing. Utilise the Merchant's complaints procedure, details will be found on their web site, as this should normally receive a quicker response than simply sending an email. If all else fails submit a Complaints Form to Safe2Shop. On receipt the Merchant will be notified that you have raised an official complaint and allowed 5 further working days to resolve the matter to your mutual satisfaction. As Merchants are usually dedicated to ensuring they achieve and retain a high User Rating with Safe2Shop Users, problems are usually resolved within a reasonable timescale. If that also fails however, then the matter is referred to the Safe2Shop Independent Complaints Panel who will act as arbitrators. The members of the Panel are charged with finding an amicable solution, and provided both Merchant and User act in a mature and reasonable manner that solution is usually forthcoming. Keeping these basic actions in mind when purchasing online should ensure that it is a pleasurable and rewarding experience. There are millions of Users who regularly purchase online, who by following these basic and simple disciplines, have found that the process is not fraught with danger - and IS the most convenient way to shop. Please note that whilst Safe2Shop
offers these tips for using the Internet - Safe2Shop cannot be held responsible
for the results of following any of the above advice |