Online gift shopping FAQ

Is online shopping safe?

Online shopping is more secure than ever, with multiple safeguards in place to protect consumers from fraud. But online criminals are always ready to prey upon the vulnerable, so it's a good idea to use common sense and take some security precautions.

What are the risks?

When you shop online, you're dealing with strangers. If problems arise, you won't have a local merchant to help you. Risks fall into two categories:

• Problems with the actual purchase
• The possibility that your credit card or other confidential data will be compromised, either through theft or inadequate security

Is it safe to shop online with unknown merchants?

Customer satisfaction with small online merchants seems no better or worse than with larger, better-known names. Although security audits show that some small merchants are vulnerable to hacking, ID thieves tend to focus on bigger targets, which can be harvested more efficiently.

How can I protect myself while shopping?

There are several ways to research a merchant's reputation.

• Read the customer reviews of merchants included on many online marketplaces.
• Check with the Better Business Bureau to see if there are any red flags.
• Search the merchant's name on Google or Yahoo! for news items or customer complaints.

Take these precautions when shopping online:

• Keep your PC protected against viruses and spyware.
• If a site looks amateurish, if prices are unusually low, or if there is no contact information, steer clear.
• Know the seller's return policy and warranty terms.
• Check your credit card and bank statements monthly, and your credit report at least annually. Report any suspect transactions immediately.

Remember, you have a legal right to receive the product as advertised. If you've paid with your credit or debit card, you can dispute the charge if the merchant fails to provide satisfaction.

Does Symantec have a product that can protect me while shopping online?

Yes. Norton™ Confidential provides comprehensive identity theft protection when you shop or bank online. Norton Confidential detects and blocks suspicious Web sites, and intercepts "phishing" email that tries to lure you to identity-stealing sites. It also prevents keystroke-logging and screen-capture programs from secretly stealing your passwords and account numbers.