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Do homework before<br>going shopping on 'Net

GC VILLAGE — When it comes to finding the right gift, it can be a lot more fun to sit at home and click away on the mouse rather than make the 90-minute, one-way drive to Flagstaff.

Shopping through the Internet can be more convenient, more fun and less of a hassle. But this new wave of technology can also throw computer users a few curve balls.

Phil Mennenoh, National Park Service ranger who specializes in online crimes, said security is very important when making financial transactions through the Internet.

"There are pay services … you can set up an account with a third party, you pay them and they pay the vendor," Mennenoh said. "Pay Pal has worked for me. And they have recommendations about vendors, good or bad."

Such services will give customers a 16-digit credit card number, an alias and a fictitious billing address so Internet shoppers can make purchases anonymously.

Another recommendation from Mennenoh is to always know the return policy. There have been horror stories in the news about Internet customers being ripped off in this area.

"Know the return policy, know the terms," Mennenoh said. "I’m fairly cautious about shopping with upstart companies. Nothing against the small guy, but when you shop, start small. For example, don’t start out buying a $10,000 server (online)."

A Website called bizrate.com rates shopping sites.

Mennenoh said another technique he practices is using a dedicated credit card for Internet shopping.

"If something goes bad, then it’s just one credit card," Mennenoh said, adding that customers can track purchases much easier if the transactions are all listed on one credit card statement.

When using a credit card or bank routing number, the information should be encrypted, Mennenoh said. For example, when in secure mode, Internet Explorer users will see a small padlock in the status bar. Netscape Navigator users will see a key lock; when the lock appears open, then the site is not secure.

"Be cautious about giving your date of birth, social security number," Mennenoh said. "Identification theft is possible."

Browsers usually have 128-bit encryption capabilities attached to their software. Mennenoh said that is important for doing online shopping, accessing bank accounts and other financial dealings.

When it comes down to making an online purchase, computer users just might want to do some comparison shopping. Mennenoh said there are databases to help users find the bottom line, such as mysimon.com; dealtime.com; mygeek.com and clickthebutton.com.

Other Internet shopping tips include:

o Take a good look at the items considered for purchase, using three-dimensional graphics if possible.

o Don’t shop online with a tight deadline.

o Voice any complaints through e-mail or phone to the retailer or use arbitration.

Another popular trend in recent months has been buying items through auction sites such as E-bay.

Mennenoh advises people to use caution when buying items in such a manner. Check the seller’s background (physical location, identifying information, phone number) and the seller’s feedback rating (be careful if bad or little feedback).

If the seller and bidder have the same ISP, it may be a scam by inflating the bid. Suspicious bidders may leave a good recommendation.

Mennenoh also says to know what you’re bidding on — value of the item, warranty, extra charges. And insist on the shipment being insured.

When making a purchase, use a credit card of escrow service. And importantly, if not comfortable, then simply don’t bid.

Mennenoh has many other recommendations for using the Internet safely — from cookie control to filters for youngsters.

Look for upcoming local workshops on the subject.


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