Using the Internet Safely For Seniors

individuals. Typically you have three basic options: you can put cash

into your account on their service, link your account on their service to

your bank account, or you can have them securely store your credit card

information. Then, when you buy something, the service holds your

payment until a buyer confirms the purchase is complete and releases

the payment. The seller only sees Paypal’s transaction information. This

offers buyers an increased level of protection from a fraudulent seller.

Proprietary payment services may increase a buyer’s protection by pro-

viding another avenue for complaints, and they may also screen out

fraudulent sellers because of the reduced anonymity of the transaction.

However, the degree of protection for a defrauded buyer may be lim-

ited, depending on the particular features of the payment service.

Figure 12-9

Online Auctions

Online auctions sites such as eBay continue to increase in popularity as

consumers participate from computers and mobile phones. These sites

are a great way to pick up good deals and unusual items (see Figure

12-10), and with a few simple safety precautions you can have great

experiences both buying and selling in auctions. Reputable services go

to great lengths to monitor their services for any scams or abuse, but

you still need to stay alert and use some common sense.

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Part III: Protecting Your Wealth and Your Health