"Online consumers spend billions of dollars each year, and as online shopping becomes more and more favored, the major reason why there are still some people who would rather not shop online is shopping security. Here are some guidelines, which you could use to make sure that your security, privacy and rights will be protected when shopping on the internet.

1. Make sure that you are aware of the currency exchange rate before purchasing any international merchandise.

2. Know the delivery cost and time frame before you even place your order. A lot of shopping websites make use of couriers in the delivery of goods. Also, overseas delivery could be expensive.

3. Before placing a bid on eBay, make sure that you will be checking the feedback of the buyers and sellers. Make this your standard as you go on eBay.

4. Always, always, always read the FAQs of the website carefully.

5. If the company or individual you are buying from asks for cash as payment, say no. Using your credit card for payments would be able to protect you from fraudulent transactions. This is because credit card companies are able to issue refunds if there would be any proven fraudulent activity on your account.

6. View the contact page of the buyer. Verify if their postal address is on there. If it is not, do not do business with them.

7. If you have questions, ask. Genuine sellers are helpful and there are even shopping websites that have customer feedback forms.

8. Read twice the company's terms and conditions, as well as their privacy policy.

9. Try searching the company in Google or any search engine to know more about the company from comments and reviews from other consumers.

10. If you still feel unsure on shopping online, then you could probably try shopping the conventional way. You need not force yourself on something that you are uncertain of. However, do not shy away from online shopping altogether. Eventually, you would realize that it could provide a truly worthwhile experience."