7 Golden Rules for Online Bargains

On-line spending could top $6.8 trillion worldwide this year. Here's how to make sure you end up smiling :)

1. Check out who you're dealing with. Be as alert as you would be shopping face to face. The site should detail the company and include a street address. Rarely, bogus sites with similar web addresses mirror reputable traders - so make sure you've typed the precise address and haven't followed a chain of links from a search engine.

2. Know what you're buying. Is it new and under guarantee? Will it work here? Query anything you're unsure of before you pay.

3. Understand the full cost. Is that local currency? What is the postage and do you have to pay for any extras - taxes, duties, packing?

4. Trade securely. Look for a padlock or unbroken key at the bottom of your screen - that means your browser recognises the site as secure. Don't give any financial information that isn't needed for the sale.

5. Double-check the order. Make sure you get a chance to confirm details before you pay.

6. Keep records. Write down reference numbers and print out your order.

7. Act quickly. Alert the trader if you're unhappy with service or goods and follow up with a call to consumer advocates. Credit card companies will reimburse you for unauthorised transactions, and may even credit your account if goods don't arrive or are substandard.