Members of 55-Plus get tips from an expert
By: Marjorie Censer
Navigating the mall during the holiday season? Dreadful for many.
Navigating the Internet for those special gifts? It can be just as daunting, if not as crowded.
On Thursday, a semi-retired computer systems analyst offered tips for members of 55-Plus looking to skip the mall and shop online.
Vivian Schwartz told members of the organization a nonsectarian group for men 55 and older that meets regularly to promote social contacts and friendships that online shopping can seem straightforward, but all shoppers should ensure that they are shopping on secure and well-known sites.
Though most of the roughly two dozen attendees said they have shopped online before, many wanted advice on specific sites to use, as well as tips on how to shop more wisely.
Ms. Schwartz differentiated between "bricks" and "clicks" calling bricks the Web sites that also have real stores, such as Nordstrom or Costco, and clicks the sites that are only online. She said the advantage of bricks is that one can often make returns to the actual store, rather than shipping items back.
Regardless of the site one uses, however, she emphasized the importance of thoroughly reading the information provided, including the privacy policies.
"Don’t just assume that if they have a privacy policy, they’re going to respect my privacy," she said. She added that shoppers should read about the site’s return policies, shipping costs, warranties and delivery times. Check to make sure the site has an address and phone number, as well.
"I’m looking for information," she said of how she evaluates a site. "Information is power."
Ms. Schwartz, as well as attendees, also provided tips on how to register for sites. She said she picks user names that don’t relate to her actual name and creates complex passwords which she keeps on a list by her computer.
"Don’t make them so simple that you can remember them," she told the group. "If someone breaks into your house, it’s all over anyway."
Attendees suggested using false information to register for sites and creating separate e-mail accounts, in case they are bombarded with junk e-mail.
Though safety is usually the greatest concern of those who don’t use the Internet to shop, Ms. Schwartz said she doesn’t see it as a big risk, particularly if shoppers exercise caution.
"I don’t think the risks are any higher than going to my local restaurant," she said, noting that there are many opportunities at which credit card information can be stolen.
And the financial benefits can greatly outweigh any risk. With gas prices higher than in the past and likely to rise again, Ms. Schwartz said, it can be expensive to go out to the mall. Virtually every Web site offers a clearance or bargain section.
"Every site that you go to look for the bargains and specials," she advised.
There are also shopping search engines that can facilitate price comparisons.
Audience members praised the presentation and said it would make them more likely to shop online.
Don Bergman said he rarely shops on the Internet because he hasn’t had the time to familiarize himself with the safety measures he should take.
The talk "proves that if you do want to shop online you need to be knowledgeable and still cautious," Mr. Bergman said. "I’m going to start investigating how to do more shopping online."
Ed Olarsch said he frequently shops for electronics online because he can find better deals. Thursday’s talk suggested several new sites he might try.
But Ms. Schwartz’s tips for a cautious approach to Internet bargain-hunting may have provoked a few additional concerns.
"I’m afraid to shop online now!" joked Morty Weinstein.