Look for a Payment Gateway.
Ensure that the online store has a tie up with a payment gateway, to protect your card information on the Internet and also confirming that merchant does not receive your credit card number.

Use a Secure Browser.
Netscape Navigator and Microsoft Internet Explorer give an added level of security, called SSL (Secure Sockets Layer). SSL automatically encrypts - or scrambles - your order and payment details before sending them to the e-trailer, ensuring your privacy and the integrity of your order. To ensure the merchant you are visiting is using this security measure, look for an unbroken key or a lock in the status bar at the bottom of your browser window. The Internet address on the location bar should have an "s" after the "http".

Compare products and prices before you buy.
The Internet is the easiest place to window shop, so make the most of it. Click your way around the world from the comfort of your home and find the items you want at the best value.

Shop with reputable retailers.
If you're not familiar with an online store, take the same precautions you would with traditional mail and telephone e-trailers.

Know who's on the other end.
With the expansion of online classifieds and auctions, it's now more common for individuals to be selling goods themselves via the Internet. While most private sellers are legitimate, your legal rights with an individual may not be the same as with a business.

Keep your password secret.
Some online retailers require you to register a user name and password along with your payment card details before buying an item. Treat this password as carefully as any bank password or PIN.

Check delivery and return policies.
Make sure you can return unsatisfactory items and check to see if you can get your money refunded or if you will receive a merchandise credit. Sales policies should cover the delivery, currency accepted, taxes applied, return and refund policy and a contact number or email address.

Keep a record of your transactions.
You may need to return or exchange an item, so keep a record that includes the e-tailer's URL (Internet address) and either an order confirmation number or an email confirmation that summarizes the date, price and quantity of a purchase. Print and save a copy.

Only give your Credit Card details when making purchases.
Do not provide your Visa card details to any website asking for them for any other purpose.