How do you know if the website you are visiting is trustworthy?
Internet security is of supreme importance if online privacy is important to you; which is why we encourage you to review our
Top Five Ways to Determine Website Trustworthiness
and then learn more about the free TrustGauge service for surfers
The TrustGauge is a proprietary service offered via BrowserAccelerator, a freeware tool offered by EMERgency 24 Inc. that acts as an Internet companion during web searching and surfing.
Top Five Ways to Determine Website Trustworthiness
Is information truthful and accurate?
Are the advertising claims on the site truthful, and can they be substantiated? Are there "get rich quick" claims that seem too good to be true? Are there outlandish "miracle cure" or other health claims? Are price claims believable? Does the online advertiser misuse hyperlinks to create the false impression of affiliation or endorsement?
Is it easy to contact the company?
Does the online merchant disclose specific contact information about the business, including a street address, telephone number, fax number and name of an individual to contact?
Are there privacy and security statements?
Is there an easy-to-find, easy-to-understand privacy policy? Does the policy advise customers of choices regarding the business' collection, use and disclosure of personal information?
Are terms of the sale clearly disclosed?
Are the terms and conditions of the sale clearly stated, including product availability/shipping information, prices and customer costs, return or refund policy, and warranties and guarantees? Does the merchant provide an opportunity to review and approve the transaction, prior to its completion? Is the consumer provided the option to receive a confirmation of the transaction after it's been completed?
Safe Shopping
This informational site, created and maintained by the American Bar Association, will help you order safely when shopping online. Here you will find information on the following topics to help you be a smarter, safer online shopper.
- How secure is your transaction - What are the legal terms of your purchase
- How are you paying for the item - When can I expect delivery of the item
- What do you know about the seller - How should you keep records about your purchase
- What are you buying - To whom can you complain if you're not satisfied
GetNetWise
A service of the Internet Education Foundation, GetNetWise is a Web Site and online resource that empowers ALL Internet users with the tools to control their personal privacy, protect their computers, and continue to make the Internet a viable, positive experience. Inside, you can find information on four content areas:
- Children's Online Safety
- Unwanted Email and Spam
- Protecting Your Computer From Hackers and Viruses
- Keeping Your Personal Information Private
Consumer Tool Box
It's a new world — with better products and services at better prices — but it’s also intimidating if you don’t know how to manage your personal information to get the best return. At the EGP, we believe a consumer has a right to make choices. Those choices include determining when to share information and with whom you should share. Informed choices are the best ones. The Consumer Toolbox arms you with the tools and tips you need to protect yourself and your family, and keep abreast of changes and updates in privacy policies, regulations and products.
privacy tips | childrens privacy
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