If you are using an online retailer, especially the one that is unknown to you, explore its web site for third party seals of approval such as TRUSTe. Companies can put these seals on their sites if they abide by a set of rigorous standards such as how complaints and disputes will be resolved and how personal information can be used. If you don't readily see these seals on the site, look in the privacy policy or "Terms & Conditions" which should be clearly posted on the site.