Shop Safely: Safety First

Security is probably the hottest topic regarding the Internet at the moment. We all have concerns when shopping on-line and we at UK Shops & Shopping Guide are acutely aware of this. Many of these concerns are unfounded and generally avoidable if you follow our 'Safety First' check which we have listed below .

With these concerns in mind, the UK Shops & Shopping Guide directory aims to consist solely of e-commerce websites that use the latest in hardware and software security measures as well as other measures designed to promote a secure shopping environment for you.

Safety First Check List

If a site cannot guarantee you a safe and secure shopping experience, there are several ways that you can minimise your risk when shopping online, and below we have listed some handy tips to bear in mind:

Try to use a web browser which uses 128-bit encryption like Internet Explorer 5.0 (upwards) or Netscape Navigator 6.0 (upwards)
Only use sites which utilise SSL ('Secure Socket Layers') technology which is more commonly referred to as 'secure servers'. There are 2 ways to know you are in a secure environment:
1) The web address will start with https:// rather than http://; e.g. https://www.shoptour.co.uk
2) In the bottom right of Internet Explorer you will see and the bottom left of Netscape
Always make sure that you are able to contact the company in question using regular methods (i.e. by telephone or by letter) so that you at least have a point of contact should anything untoward happen.
Ask the company in question to explain the refund and return policy before making your purchase. It is also wise to check their delivery times.
When making your purchase, print all information from the initial product description all the way through to, and including, the actual ordering process so that you have a proof of purchase.
Check for accreditation. There are many accreditation schemes around, but make sure that you are aware of what they do for you if something goes wrong. The majority only testify to the integrity of the hardware and software systems in place and do not offer compensation or protection if you have a fraudulent experience.

Our objective is for you to enjoy a safe and pleasant experience whilst shopping online and always welcome feedback or enquiries, so please feel free to CONTACT US

SHOP SAFELY: MORE LINKS

More safe shopping links - find lots of safe shopping advice, and learn how to avoid the Internet scams...

BBC Watchdog
Great site if you have a complaint.

BBC News Article
Online shopping: Your rights

Citizen's Advice Bureau
For general consumer help with UK shops

Complain Domain
Can't be bothered to complain yourself? Let someone else complain for you!

Consumer Guide
UK Government consumer guide

How To Complain
Free site that shows you how to complain

Office of Fair Trading
Visit the Office of Fair Trading site

Trading Standards
For general consumer help with UK shops

Trust UK
TrustUK is a non-profit organisation endorsed by the UK Government to enable consumers to buy online with confidence.