Shopping online or by television has grown increasing popular throughout the years, mainly due to convenience. Buyers can often obtain substantial deals without having to leave home. As added bonuses, products generally arrive quickly and can be delivered directly to the doorstep. But, before you throw down your credit cards and commit to buying anything, consider these factors:

  • Make sure you are buying from a reputable business and opt for trusted websites.
  • Always use strong passwords that are changed frequently.
  • Check bank and credit card statements regularly.
  • When shopping online, beware of misspellings that can take you to the wrong websites.
  • Also beware of unofficial domain names designed to trick buyers (for example .net rather than .com).
  • Use websites with an SSL (secure sockets layer) encryption. URLs generally start with HTTPS rather than HTTP.
  • Never give out your birthday or SSN (social security number). Once a scammer obtains this information;
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Shopping second-hand is more accessible than ever these days, but the sheer amount of choice out there can be daunting for those who are new to the world of pre-loved fashion. That’s why stylist Amy Bannerman – who has worked with the likes of Dua Lipa and Sophie Turner and was behind Love Island‘s second-hand wardrobe this summer – has been sharing her insider tips to help guide others along the way.

“My love of second-hand shopping started very early on,” Amy tells Vogue. “My older brother Angus inspired me a lot growing up – he had a vintage ’80s leopard print coat which I endlessly coveted. I was always very sentimental with clothing, so I guess that a love of the meaning behind pieces was imbued at a young age.”

As well as being an eBay obsessive, Amy can regularly be found trawling the rails at charity

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