Our Advice on Shopping Online Safely

Oakfurniture2u is dedicated to the security and privacy of its customers, and are pleased to pass on our advice about shopping online safely.

Keep Private Information Private!

Oakfurniture2u and SagePay will never ask you to provide any confidential information (e.g., PIN Numbers). Do not give away your PIN or bank related passwords to any kind of cold caller or in response to any kind of unsolicited email.

Make sure that your cards and card details are kept safe “in the real world.” Most cases of defrauding via the internet happens through cards or card details being stolen in the real world and used online; so make sure your cards or wallet are safe at all times, along with shredding any documents that relate to your finances where possible.

Always check your bank or card statements when you have used your card online. If you find a transaction that you did not make, contact your bank or credit card company IMMEDIATELY. You may consider opening a separate card simply for ordering online if you do it frequently, as you would be able to keep a better eye on online transactions. Many credit card companies offer additional protection against online fraudsters.

Stay Safe on the Computer!

Firstly, make sure you are using a computer that has up to date anti-virus and firewall software and that you browser is up to date. Internet Explorer (link) and Firefox (link) are the two most popular, and you can obtain the latest versions of most browsers from their respective websites. Check that the options in your browser are set to the highest level of security.

Only shop at websites with security provisions; ensure that when you are prompted you’re your card information, your browser displays an indication of a secure connection such as a closed padlock or a key symbol somewhere near the bottom of the window; or in more recent browsers, near the address bar. By clicking on the icon, you should see an indication that the page is secure.

If you have not already signed up to such a service, sign up to a scheme that allows you to use a password when using your card online such as Verified by Visa (link) or MasterCard Secure Code (link); as this password adds another level of security between you and any potential fraudsters.

Know Your Stuff!

Once you have completed an order, you should be able to print out a confirmation of the order you have placed, either through your browser or via an email sent to you automatically to confirm the order. It may also be worthwhile also printing off a copy of the retailer’s terms and conditions as they are at the point of sale.

Also, you can keep yourself in the know about online safety and web retail in general via your local Citizens’ Advice Bureau or from the following websites: Get Safe Online (link), Data Protection Act (link), Card Watch (link), Statutory Rights (link).