Tip 8 in an occasional series. Keep visiting regularly for more Online Shopping Safety Tips.

This tip is perhaps an obvious one, but it’s certainly worth mentioning nonetheless. The problem isn’t perhaps the shopper’s willingness to transact only with reputable sites, but with the ability to spot those that are not so reputable. There are a few key indicators, though, that may give you a hint either way.

Big names – well known high-street names will usually be safe to deal with. It is very unlikely that national companies will risk their reputation by delving into the world of credit card fraud.

Companies with a street address and telephone number – of course this can easily be faked, but its absence should start alarm bells ringing.

Check around on the internet – if you’re unsure then a quick web search can provide both good and bad reviews. Read them and use them to make your judgment.

If in doubt… don’t buy – this is the most important rule. If you’re unsure of a company’s authenticity, then simply don’t give them your card details. Is it worth thousands in your hard-earned money? No, of course not.

Remember: being overcautious is better than being defrauded.