e-Shopping: Seller

What do you know about the seller?

The Seller - Do you know the seller’s reputation?

You might feel safer dealing with companies you already know and trust. If you’re not familiar with the name and reputation of a company–and especially if a seller has sent you an unsolicited e-mail message ("spam")–find out more before you buy.

Spam - How can you avoid "spam"?

Although many e-mails ask you to reply if you would like your name removed from the seller’s mailing list, some experts have advised against responding. That’s because your e-mail address might then be sold to others who wish to send you unsolicited commercial messages. A better way to deal with spam is to contact your Internet service provider to complain about these messages and to ask whether they can be blocked.

The Individual - Do you know the individual's reputation?

Some online auction sites offer "feedback" areas where customers discuss their experiences with a particular person

The Address - Will the seller be at the same web address tomorrow?

With a physical store or a catalog, you know where to turn to if you run into problems. But in cyberspace, all you may have is a web address. Look on the site for a street address and phone number. (Be wary if the seller’s only contact information is a post office box.)

International Buying - Are you buying from someone located outside your country?

Since it’s the World Wide Web, sellers might well be located in other countries. If so, you might not have the same legal rights, or be able to enforce your rights as easily, as when the seller is located in your own country.

Company Experience - Does it matter if the seller has experience selling the product?

The law generally gives you more protection when you buy an item from a seller who regularly sells those items.

Authorized Seller - Is the company an authorized seller?

You may get better warranty service if you buy from an authorized seller. How do you know who’s authorized? You can call the manufacturer of the product you’re interested in, or visit the manufacturer’s web site to check if the operator of the site has been authorized to sell the manufacturer's product.

Electronic Agent - Shopping for the lowest price?

Some web sites offer an "electronic agent" to identify the sites that charge the lowest price for a specified product. Be aware that some sellers have taken technological steps to block these "agents" from gathering pricing data. In addition, "agent" sites might not take shipping costs or return/refund policies into account when comparing the prices.

Still Selling - Is the seller still in business?

You might wish to telephone or send an e-mail to be sure the seller is still in operation, particularly if the web site’s material appears to be old or out of date.

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