Shopping Assistant

1. Does the business provide its name, address and contact information?
A "No" answer to question #1: Make sure a company is legitimate before doing business with it. Identify the company’s name, its physical address, including the country where it is based, and an e-mail address or telephone number, so you can contact the company with questions or problems.

2. Does the business provide a detailed product description and allow you to save a copy of the order?
A "No" answer to question #2: If you order without complete product information you may not get what you expect. If you feel information is missing, contact the business, or consider shopping elsewhere.

2. Does the business provide a detailed product description and allow you to save a copy of the order?
A "No" answer to question #2: If you order without complete product information you may not get what you expect. If you feel information is missing, contact the business, or consider shopping elsewhere.

3. Is the sales agreement clear?
A "No" answer to question #3: Terms and conditions of sale should be in plain language and cover items like:

  • the full price and the currency (including taxes and all handling charges);
  • notice of any other charges such as customs duties/brokerage fees;
  • delivery details;
  • cancellation, return and exchange policies and warranties if applicable;
  • methods of payment.
Keep a copy for future reference. If you can't find these items in the terms you should consider dealing with another business.

4. Are the steps for ordering or canceling clear and simple?
A "No" answer to question #4: Reputable businesses provide a clear summary of your shopping before you complete the order including:

  • items selected;
  • prices;
  • additional charges.
They also make it easy to correct the list. If the business isn't clear about any of this, consider finding one who is.

5. Is it clear what happens if you're not satisfied with your purchase?
A "No" answer to question #5: A business should provide an effective process for handling complaints and enquiries. If you can't find clear information about this, or if you're not satisfied with the process, consider shopping elsewhere.

6. Are you sure the site provides a secure system for processing your transaction?
A "No" answer to question #6: Businesses that use secure transaction systems will advertise the fact, give you information about their system and tell you who provides it. Once you begin the buying process look for:

  • a closed padlock icon at the bottom of your screen;
  • a Website address that begins with https://
If you can't find these, your personal and financial information will be more vulnerable to hackers.

7. Are you aware of how the business will use your personal information?
A "No" answer to question #7: Businesses should post a privacy policy on their Website. The privacy policy should explain what personal information the site collects, how that information is used, and whether the information is shared with any other businesses.



Important: The On-line Shopping Assistant is designed to help your decision making. Its use is not a guarantee of service and product quality. Remember, any offer that sounds too good to be true - probably is.