Computer Prof's Online Buyer Protection Tips

With more people shopping online this holiday season, and with auction sites among the most popular, the danger of becoming a victim of cyber crime is greater than ever. Cal State Northridge professor Vernon Cook says there are some things you can do to protect yourself. A computer science expert, Cook says there is certain information that a secure, reputable online company will not ask for, such as your social security number. Beware of questions about which bank account a merchant can draw the funds from, which is a red flag, Cook says. Major credit card companies, he says, may ask for a complete bank account number, but in the future they will block out that number for your protection. Cook says it is best to stick with well-known major company sites with a good track record.
(Source: Rick Williams/Russ Spears @ Metro)

Blog topic: Does the idea of sticking to well-known, name-brand sites limit the chances of a small entrepreneur gaining a niche in a marketplace already dominated by big companies? Please share your thoughts with us via the Episode Blogs page, where you'll find the new Auction Talk Radio episode on Monday.