Using your credit to buy online is safe, but you must take care and the proper precautions. Using your credit card can be safer than using cash, especially when buyng large-ticket items. Paying by credit card gives you an accurate record of your purchase. If you loose your receipt you still have proof of purchase. But what will happen to your peronal information? Will you find yourself inundated with credit card applications and other direct marketing materials? If you are receiving so-called "junk mail" by snail mail, telephone or your e-mail, you can do something to reduce the flow.

Have Your Name Removed From Most Marketing Lists

Visit DMA Consumer Assistance: How And Where To Find Help. This is an excellent consumer site. You are given information, a telephone number and an address to have yourself removed from direct marketing lists. http://www.dmaconsumers.org/consumerassistance.html

Your Credit Reporting Agencies

It is a good idea to check your credit reports from time-to-time. You can check to see if there are additional accounts opened, odd charges, etc. There are only three CC reporting agencies (USA):

Experian 888-397-3742
Equifax 800-685-1111
TransUnion 800-916-8800

For more on cyber safety visit http://www.staysafeonline.info/

Using your credit card to buy online is safe, but you should read, read and read the fine print *before* you make that final click to purchase. If you do not read the the company policy carefully, you may actually be giving permission to receive these marketing materials when you hit send.

Online Shopping is Generally Safe

1. Buy from stores and vendors you know. Many established mega stores now sell their products online and often offer online specials.

2. Use credit cards only, never debit cards when shopping online. Most credit card companies protect misuse of your card by outside parties. Using your debit card pulls money directly from your bank account.

3. There are several things to look for on the site: A secure site will have a small key or padlock icon in the lower portion of your screen. Also, you may see WebAssured or ShopAssured at bottom of the screen.

4. A reminder that secured servers and knowing your vendors is not foolproof but they offer a more than fair amount of security and offer some recourse if you have a problem.

Check for Previous Complaints If You Don't Know the Company

You can check WebAssured for previous company complaints. This site has a watchlist, consumers FAQ's and more. You can also file a complaint there. http://www.webassured.com

Don't forget to check out old reliables like the Better Business Bureau. See related link.