• Shop with companies you know. Anyone can set up shop online under almost any name.
• Determine the company’s refund and return policies before you place your order. These should be posted on the company’s Web site.
• Keep your password(s) private. Be creative when you establish a password, and never give it to anyone. Avoid using a telephone number, birth date or a portion of your Social Security number. Instead, use a combination of numbers, letters and symbols.
• Pay by credit or charge card. If you pay by credit or charge card online, your transaction will be protected by the Fair Credit Billing Act.
• Keep a record. Be sure to print a copy of your purchase order and confirmation number for your records.
• Pay your bills online. Some companies let you pay bills and check your account status online. Before you sign up for any service, evaluate how the company secures your financial and personal information.

Don't forget to check your credit report occasionally for any unauthorized account activity. This is the best way to prevent identity theft. Lastly, be sure and roll your high interest credit cards into the new low interest cards. An in depth credit card information site is helpful in determining your options. We like 0 APR Credit Cards the best, as they focus on zero interest credit accounts.

This Week's Consumer Tip:

This week's tip is submitted by Arlene Dutton from Seattle: "When ordering products online throughout the year, Ground Shipping times are often faster than stated. For instance: a delivery from Florida to Idaho might take three days, even though the carrier guaranteed 5 days. Save yourself money- don't be tempted to upgrade your shipping unless you really need to." Thanks, Arlene. Also, don't forget to look for stores that frequently have free shipping deals like Amazon and Sierra Outfitters.