I really like to shop online instead of battling crowds in the mall. However, with all the news about online Identity Theft and credit card fraud, what can I do to make sure I’m protected with Internet purchases? Selma Shopaholic

Dear Selma: According to CNet News.com, cyber-shopping sales in 2007 totaled $136.4 billion! Online retailers number in the thousands, some legitimate and some not so the need to protect ourselves from fraudulent sites is more important than ever.

Unsecured information can be intercepted. Secured browsers encrypt or scramble personal information (PI). Always look for the “https” on your browser; the “s” means your credit card information is secure. The Fair Credit Billing Act helps ’Net (and traditional) shoppers on a number of fronts, including billing errors, unauthorized use of accounts, goods and services charged but not received, and against paying charges until the business offers an explanation or proof of purchase. Find more details at www.ftc.gov.

Never share passwords with anyone and don’t use the same one for all sites. In fact, it’s wise to change passwords every few months. Choose really original ones that a scam artist would find impossible to decipher; on the other hand, avoid like the plague a combination of words/letters, such as your house number, and, on no account, use your mother’s maiden name. If you’re a regular reader, you know NEVER to reveal your Social Security number; in fact, if an online company asks for this most confidential information, then shut down its Web page — pronto!

Check the company’s return policy before buying. A legitimate web merchant should state its policy and include its physical address (not just as P.O. Box) and toll-free number. If you’re not sure about the policy, then call. If the company isn’t sure, then don’t purchase. If you do return an item, it doesn’t hurt to send it certified mail, return receipt requested (your “proof”); I suggest that you insure the return if it’s a big ticket item.

Always print a copy of your order and confirmation number. Just as with conventional purchases, if you need to return the item (or to utilize documentation in a complaint letter if the latter doesn’t response or in a timely manner), the receipt is your proof of purchase.

A great site (www.safeshopping.org) sponsored by the American Bar Association provides even more information regarding wise online shopping.