Nixon offers tips for ‘Cyber Monday’ shopping

Nixon’s online shopping tips include:

• Use sites that are known or recommended to minimize risk;

• Compare prices and deals, such as free shipping or extended services contracts;

• Search online for coupons, or “promo codes”;

• Before completing a purchase, get complete descriptions of the items and details of shipping and return policies;

• Make sure price and quantity are correct before making a purchase;

• Pay with a credit card, as federal law allows buyers to dispute charges if they use credit cards;

• Use a secure Internet browser that has an address starting with “https,” rather than “http”;

• Print purchase order details;

• Make a purchase over the phone instead of online if possible; and

• For expensive items at an online auction site, such as eBay, use a third-party escrow service to ensure satisfaction.