'Search for company's name' before handing over credit card details

Handing over credit card details online should be done with care, one expert has said.

People should do some research into a company before handing over credit card details online, according to one industry expert.

Choice spokeswoman Elise Davidson believes there are a "fair share of risks" associated with shopping over the internet, News Limited Newspapers reports.

She added: "You could pay for goods that never arrive and who knows what happens to the personal information you provide?"

It is difficult to recognise when a company is being trustworthy, but if individuals have trouble after giving information over the web then they could visit the Australian Securities and Investments Commission website at www.asic.gov.au.

However, Australia may have different laws to other countries so it is worth checking these out when purchasing goods from an international website with an Aussie credit card.

Individuals should also be aware of their details because Peter Kell, deputy chairman of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, recently noted it is not only the rich and famous who get their credit cards scammed.

By Mark Hornby