Staying safe online
Protect yourself by knowing what to look out for.
Shopping online is quick and convenient – it can be done from the comfort of your own home, or even when you're out and about. But it's important that you shop securely by protecting your personal and financial information.
Online shopping allows you to buy goods or services over the internet. You can shop online from most major supermarkets and high-street shops, as well as smaller independent shops, for groceries, clothes, household items and more.
You can either have goods delivered directly to your house (usually for a small delivery fee), or you can use a service called 'click and collect', where you order online but collect items in-store, meaning you spend less time in the shops. On some sites, you even have the option to collect your items from a local convenience store or newsagents.
There are some simple things you can do to help protect your money and information while shopping online, including:
Most major supermarkets offer online shopping, and you might find that smaller independent shops local to you have an online shopping and delivery service too. To shop with major supermarkets, follow these steps:
If you regularly shop with a supermarket online, it might be worth buying a delivery pass or delivery saver. This means you make a one-off payment so that you don't need to pay for delivery each time. It might also give you priority access to certain delivery slots.
You'll never be asked for your card PIN (Person Identification Number) when you pay for something online, but you will be asked for the following details from your debit or credit card:
When purchasing something online you can set up an account with the retailer. Make sure to use a different password for each account, and always use a strong password. Click here to find out more about online password security.
Sometimes the website or your internet browser prompts you to save your card details for next time – never do this on a shared computer, and make sure your device is protected with a password, PIN or fingerprint login if you do save your card details.
Make sure that you're using a secure website before entering any personal details. You can check that a website is secure by answering the following questions
You can see some examples of the symbols to look out for on the Google support website. Click here to visit Google support.
Be aware that a padlock symbol isn't a guarantee of safety. If you have any doubts, it's best to leave the page.
If you're shopping online using a computer, you can also use safe settings in the Google Chrome browser. Click here to find out more about safe settings on the Google support website.
If your delivery doesn’t arrive, is damaged, or if the wrong item arrives, get in touch with the online retailer. They should arrange a refund or deliver a replacement. If you're not happy with the response from the retailer you should contact your bank.
If you notice any unusual transactions in your bank account, contact your bank immediately. You'll usually be able to get your money back if your card details have been compromised and used by a fraudster. It's a good idea to check your bank statement regularly – you'll notice any unusual transactions sooner.
If you’re worried something might be a scam, or think you’ve been scammed, contact the police and then Action Fraud. The information you give Action Fraud can help them find the scammer.
We offer support through our free advice line on 0800 678 1602. Lines are open 8am-7pm, 365 days a year. We also have specialist advisers at over 120 local Age UKs.
Protect yourself by knowing what to look out for.
Our A-Z of online terms explains what they all mean.
Online banking allows you to keep control of your finances from home or whilst you're out and about on your bank's...
You can send money from your bank account to someone else's using a bank transfer. Transferring money in this way is...
Email is electronic mail. It's a free and easy way to stay in touch with family and friends. You'll need an email...
Age UK's handy advice on how to video call with family, friends and other loved ones.