Blog / How to Ensure Safety When Shopping Online: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Ensure Safety When Shopping Online: A Step-by-Step Guide

by SW Team

In the digital age, shopping online has become a common practice. However, with the increasing presence of cyber threats, it is essential to make sure that the site on which we make our transactions is secure. Below, we will break down several crucial aspects to consider when determining the security of a website before making a purchase.

But before we talk about the most important aspects to consider when shopping online, we would like to mention that we have optimised our Hosting for PrestaShop. With this solution, you can guarantee the security of your customers when setting up your e-commerce.

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1. Google Security Verification and Certification

One of the first indicators of security is the Google warning. Before entering any personal or financial information, check to see if Google displays a security warning when attempting to access the site. Also, note the presence of the HTTPS protocol in the address bar, indicating that the connection is secure and encrypted. Secure websites also display a padlock in the address bar.

2. Data Transmission Security: HTTP vs HTTPS

The difference between HTTP and HTTPS is crucial. Websites that use HTTPS offer an additional layer of security by encrypting the information transmitted. If a site only uses HTTP, it is more vulnerable to attacks, and sending personal data over it could expose the information to potential threats.

3. Authenticity Seal

Some trusted websites display seals of authenticity and security. These seals are provided by third parties that certify the authenticity and security of the site. They may come from online security companies or government entities. Before making a purchase, look for such seals on the site, as they are an indication that the site has been evaluated and deemed safe.

4. Domain Verification

Verify that the company name is visible in the address bar or that the domain matches the entity you are looking for. Fraudulent sites often use similar or variant names to trick users. Also, pay attention to possible misspellings in the URL, as these could indicate a phishing attempt.

5. Check Legal Information

Reputable websites often provide legal information, such as terms and conditions, privacy policy and return details. Check this information to make sure you understand the company's policies. The absence of these details could be a red flag.

6. Contact details

A secure website should offer clear and easy-to-find contact information. Look for an email address or a customer service phone number. Transparency in communication indicates the site's legitimacy and willingness to provide support.

Now we will continue to explain the aspects to be taken into account when shopping online, but first we want to mention one last thing, and that is that we also offer Hosting optimised for WooCommerce, for all you WordPress lovers. This is another solution that allows you to guarantee the security of your customers' purchases in your eCommerce.

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7. Secure Payment Methods

To ensure financial security, it is crucial to choose reliable payment methods when shopping online. Here are some secure options:

1. Payment by Credit Card

Using credit cards offers an additional layer of protection. Credit card companies often offer refund policies and fraud protection. Be sure to regularly review your statements and report any suspicious activity.

2. PayPal

PayPal is a widely used online payment platform that provides additional security for buyers. By using PayPal, your financial information is kept private, and you can dispute transactions if any problems arise.

3. Secure Online Payments

Some online shops offer secure payment systems of their own. Check if the site uses recognised payment platforms that offer additional security measures, such as identity verification and data encryption.

By incorporating these secure payment methods, you can have peace of mind that your online transactions are protected, and there is the possibility of getting your money back in case of problems. Shop with security and confidence!

8. External Evaluation through Reviews

The experiences of other users are valuable when evaluating the security of a website. Look for reviews on external sites, forums or social networks. Look for patterns in the comments and pay attention to recurring concerns. A lack of reviews or a large number of negative reviews could indicate potential problems.


By applying these security criteria when shopping online, you will strengthen your ability to make informed decisions and protect your personal data. Caution and attention to detail are essential in today's digital environment. By doing so, you will not only benefit from a safer shopping experience, but you will also contribute to creating a more trustworthy and resilient online space against potential threats. Stay informed, choose secure websites and reliable payment methods, and you can enjoy your online shopping with greater peace of mind.

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