If the fuel crisis drives you to shop for goods on the web, follow these tips to have a secure shopping experience online.

1.

Always choose a secure site.

Look at the site address, and check for the 's' after http which denotes a secure site.

This ensures your personal details are encrypted before being sent over the Internet, preventing others from seeing them.

2.

Do not give credit card details in an email.

This is not a secure procedure.

3.

Keep a record of all transactions and important details.

4.

Check your bank and credit card statements carefully to ensure transactions are correct.

5.

Only shop with sites that are well established or well known.

If you are unsure, ask the site manager

for a reference from existing customers or a history of the site and services.

6.

Read over the delivery and returns policy.

Enjoy your online shopping expedition - and shop safely.