The Christmas season is bearing down on the time-deprived, harried, gas price conscious and bargain aware. Just for the sheer simplicity of it, the Internet has come to save your sanity. Now, believe it or not there are still many people out there who are not regular Internet users and actual shopping on-line may be somewhat intimidating, about 70% of people still don't feel comfortable doing so. Or possibly, you do use a computer quite often, but have heard horror stories of the dangers lurking out there in cyber-space.

To keep yourself safe

* Always do business with a reputable company.

* Check that the site is secure by locating the closed padlock or key symbol icon on your browser bar, usually in the bottom corner.

* Make all transactions on one credit card. That way you can track purchases by checking your statement. Don't use your debit card. In the case of fraud your credit card company has protection. You would be responsible for approximately $50 in such a circumstance.

* Keep records of your transactions by printing out order numbers, confirmations and any emails used in the process. Never send your credit card number in an email.

* Your computer should have anti-virus, anti-spyware and a firewall, which should always be kept up-to-date.

* Check the web-site's return policy as they can differ greatly.

Now that we have that out of the way, there are many benefits to Internet shopping.

Internet shopping advantages

* There are many safe and reputable on-line companies to do business with. Most companies make a diligent effort to make their web-sites safe and secure. Credit cards are encrypted for security when used.

* You can shop anytime—anywhere. The Internet is open 24/7 and you don't even need to get dressed to go out.

* No need to haul the kids out to the car and through the malls, running from store to store.

* There is no waiting in line for the cash register, no crowds to be dealt with, and no parking space to search for. Saving much time during an already hectic season.

* You are able to find unique gifts that are unavailable in regular stores. Something extraordinary is always more fun to give and enjoyable to receive.

* Many companies offer engraving services for that special message or monogram in a variety of styles.

* Gifts can be shipped directly to the recipients address. Saving a trip to the post office, having to deal again with long lines and parking space, also gas and children.

* Many items come in their own one-of-a-kind gift box. Saving the expense and time of gift wrapping.

* Visiting the Internet makes it easy to comparison shop. As you move from site to site you can easily find the web-site that offers the most inexpensive price. Often these companies can offer a more moderate price because items are shipped directly from the warehouse.

* Internet shopping allows the shopper to search for a specific item rather than go from store to store looking to no avail, all from their comfortable seat at home or the office simply by entering a keyword into their search engine.

* Researching an item on the Internet becomes a breeze with more information about that item to ensure you are receiving the features you truly need and want.

As you can see the advantages positively outweigh the negatives when you are deciding to shop on-line. So go forth and give it a try, search the abundant number of web-sites available to you. Do it with your slippers on, after the children are tucked in their beds, with a glass of wine by your side. Investigate the multitude of items offered and their prices. Make it an enjoyable experience by knowing the majority of these companies have your best interests in mind and are safe and secure. Most importantly, have fun!

Copyright (c) 2008 Wealthwood Gifts Inc