Conservatively Speaking
State Senator Mary Lazich (R-New Berlin) represents parts of four counties: Milwaukee, Waukesha, Racine, and Walworth. Her Senate District 28 includes New Berlin, Franklin, Greendale, Hales Corners, Muskego, Waterford, Big Bend, the town of Vernon and parts of Greenfield, East Troy, and Mukwonago. Senator Lazich has been in the Legislature for more than a decade. She considers herself a tireless crusader for lower taxes, reduced spending and smaller government.
Protect Yourself While Cyber Holiday Shopping
After the Thursday's turkey coma wears off and the celebration from the Packers beating the Lions ends, the unofficial shopping holiday of Black Friday will be in full force. Stores slash prices to get more people in their businesses for holiday shopping.
Cyber Monday is even more important to many businesses. Cyber Monday is the Monday after Thanksgiving. While buying things on the internet always comes with some risk, the holiday season seems to make that risk even higher. The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) provides the following tips to keep your online shopping experience a pleasant one:
● Protect your smartphone and computer from malicious software. Malware can spy on your internet surfing, steal your personal information and use your computer or phone to send spam. Beware downloading holiday-themed screensavers, ringtones and e-cards. Download apps only from official app stores. Install quality firewall, virus protection and spyware protection software on your computer, and keep it updated.
● Guard your personal information. Don’t fall for offers on social networks that promise a free iPad or airline tickets in exchange for personal information. Before entering personal information online, read the privacy policy and understand what the website operators will do with your information. Never email credit card numbers – email is not completely secure.
● Use search engines to check for scams – and for coupons. Key in a company or product name with words like “scam,” “review” and “complaint.” Read the reviews, but don’t put your trust in one review. When you’ve made your decision, search for the store with terms like “discount” or “free shipping.”
● Compare costs. Use a cost-comparison website to check prices, making sure you also check shipping, handling and return fees.
● Pay by credit or charge card for extra protection. The Fair Credit Billing Act gives consumers the right to dispute charges under certain circumstances and temporarily withhold payment while the credit card company investigates.
● Read the fine print. Before submitting your order, carefully check return policies, restocking fees and who is responsible for the return shipping costs. Know when the items should be delivered, and know whom to contact if they are not.
● Keep a paper trail. Print records of online transactions and copies of emails sent between you and the seller. Review credit card statements when you receive them to look for unauthorized charges.
This site uses Facebook comments to make it easier for you to contribute. If you see a comment you would like to flag for spam or abuse, click the "x" in the upper right of it. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use.