Shopping fact:
You need to pay the merchant somehow. Over the Internet almost all purchases are made by using a credit card.

Now before you run off screaming "No, Never!" you should listen to a few facts

The facts about your credit or debit card number

• You put yourself at risk from having your card number stolen every day.
• Do you always ask to retain the carbon copy paper after having your card swiped?
• Are you sure the cashier doesn't copy your card number off the store's printout?
• Do you keep your card out of site of store security cameras?
• Are you sure your card isn't 'skimmed' through a second reader which records the card details?
• Have you given your card number over the phone?
• By using major stores to shop on the internet you are exposed to less risks than these above.
• So what can happen if your card number is taken by someone (either over the Internet, phone or in a store)??

So how am I protected then?

• Even if someone steal your card number they can't do much with it
• Plastic Cards with raised prints are pretty hard to forge
• If a crook only has the card number, the best they can do is order over the phone over the Internet, but goods must be ordered to a delivery address, leaving a nice big clue for the police.
• The maximum amount you are liable for is $50 Australian under Australian Law, indeed in most cases (no guarantees however) the banks or institutions will waive this fine.
• You are protected by yourself. Keep a record of what you spend on your credit / debit card, and check them off when the statement comes in.

Internet fact:
There are some very dodgy stores out there on the Net. Some just take your Credit Card numbers to use, others will barrage you with email or sell your mailing address. So it is important that you choose a reputable merchant, even more so if you are shopping through the US.

But don't worry because Comp@re have collated and reviewed some of the world's and Australia's biggest and most reputable merchants. All of these stores are legitimate, well organised copmpanies that have firm return, delivery, card security and privacy policies.