Everybody desires a safe internet shopping experience. Nobody would want to be scammed or in any way experience a mishap online. But with virtually anybody being able to create an online store and with more and more online shops opening every single day, how can we determine between a site that could be reliable and one that is not? A safety checklist will help you find online stores that you could trust with your transaction.

Transacting with a secure site is important to assure yourself that the personal information you will be providing them especially your credit card information is protected and encrypted, not giving online hackers and thieves the chance to obtain any private data. When asked for a credit card number and any other personal data the site usually begins with "https." On secure pages, you will find a closed lock usually at the bottom of the screen when your browser is internet explorer and an unbroken key symbol when Netscape browser is in use.

Very important for online stores that you either haven't heard of or transacted with in the past is to check out their contact information which includes a physical business address, telephone number, email address and fax number. It is advised that you contact them using any of the possible means with calling them being the best option.

The online store should as well have a privacy policy. The privacy policy contains the information on how your provided details and data will be used by the company emphasizing that in no way will your personal information be provided to other companies or third parties.

A satisfaction guarantee should be expected and this involves a policy for returns, exchanges or refunds if any. Despite the accurate product description and a picture to help in the decision making, you can expect for customers to not like the actual product when it reaches their hands. It is best if customers can have the items returned for a refund or have it exchanged for another product.

The shipping and handling charges should be clearly stated. The expected delivery date should also be provided and the customer should be informed if there are instances when delay happens.

Keep a copy of your confirmation or transaction number which is very important especially if problems occur. This information should be printed for a hard copy.

As long as you are cautious and careful, you shouldn't be afraid to try on new things like online shopping.