The IMPORTANT thing to do is to ensure when you do a transaction over the internet you have a SECURE link. Never fill out a basic text form and email it.
I'm not sure what the indication is for Internet Explorer that you have a secure transaction session underwy but for Netscape users the lock on the lower left side of your screen closes and hilights. Then you know the cryptogrpahic standard is in place. When you enter your credit card on a website that is using a web security you're safe.
For instance. Go to
http://www.buycomp.com. Select *any* item to purchase. When you click on "continue to secure checkout" you should recieve a small "security alert" window that advises you that "you have requested a secure document and that it is encrypted for pivacy..." If you do not get this window it may be that your browser does not support it or that you may have in the past disabled that alert in your browser settings. You know you will have a secure link when the lock on the bottom left of your browser (Netscape!) locks and is higlighted in yellow.
You're ok. I too have ordered alot off the Internet and as long as you shop at a website that uses enryption technology you'll be fine.
BTW. At this point leave
www.buycomp.com or you can proceed to further and buy the item
-Westy
[This message has been edited by Westy (edited 01-29-2000).]