By Sandor Panton, Contributor 
Unlocking the secrets of the Internet is a series brought to you by www.go-jamaica.com. The portal web site of The Jamaica Gleaner.
WITH JUST the click of a mouse, Jamaicans can purchase nearly any product on the Internet - from jewellery and accessories to specialty foods and spices. Electronic commerce, widely known as e-commerce, enables consumers to shop at online stores, and pay for their purchases without leaving the comfort of home, office or wherever their computer happens to be. Most significantly, e-commerce allows Jamaicans living in Jamaica as well as those abroad to be able to purchase authentic Jamaican products online. Many of them can be found in the go-jamaica.com storefront.
Shopping online undoubtedly offers benefits that you won't necessarily find when shopping in an actual store Internet stores are usually open 24 hours a day, it allows you to avoid crowds and very often you can find discounts and bargains that are only available online. However, just as you would in the real world, it's important that you be smart as you do your online shopping. Keep some of the following tips in mind to help ensure that your e-commerce experience is a safe and enjoyable one.
Use a secure Internet browser Your browser should comply with and support industry security standards and protocols, such as Secure Sockets Layer (SSL). SSL for example encrypts your credit card and purchase information, helping to secure your transaction. Many older browsers are not safe in this regard, so it might suit you to download the latest version of your favourite browser before you proceed.
Shop at secure web sites Secure web sites also comply with and support industry security standards and protocols such as SSL. How can you tell if a web site is secure? Once you're on the page on which you're entering sensitive information such as your credit card number, a couple ways to check are:
(i) Look at the top of your browser where the web site address is usually displayed. The site URL should begin with "https://" instead of the standard "http://"
(ii) Look for a closed padlock (usually yellow in colour) displayed at the bottom of the browser window.
Shop with companies that you know or have researched In the online world where it's so easy to be anonymous, and where just about anyone can set up an e-commerce store, it might be safe for you to shop at web sites that you already know or have researched properly. If the company or web site is unfamiliar, do your homework before buying their products. If you decide to buy something from a company that's new to you, start out with an inexpensive order to see if they deserve your full trust.
Use your credit card Always use your credit card instead of a cheque, money order or debit card. If something goes wrong, you will be able to dispute charges on your credit card, and possibly withhold payments during a creditor investigation. If you use other means, you're likely to have no protection whatsoever if you have issues with the purchase.
Keep a record Always print copies of your orders.
Article written by Sandor Panton, Internet Specialist & Consultant. If you have any comment contact him at feedback@jamaica-gleaner.com.
