Did you know you were an e-consumer? Many of us are, even if we’re reluctant. The convenience and instant gratification that we seek can often be satisfied with online transactions and they are becoming increasingly more of the way we do business.

Here are the top 10 e-consumer tips from your Better Business Bureau:

Pick just one card. The use of one credit card for all online transactions makes it easier to track purchases. Don’t use an ATM or debit card.

Know the e-business. If they don’t have a physical address and phone number, and a reputation for reliability, beware.

Read the privacy policy. Look for the “opt out” provision that keeps the company from sharing your personal information. If there isn’t a privacy policy, rethink the transaction.

Lock in security. Web sites that encrypt or scramble your personal information display an unbroken lock symbol in the status bar at the bottom of your browser and “https” in the Web address.

This prevents anyone stealing your personal info during transmission.

Check the return policy. Doing business with an online company is no different in this sense than with a store you physically visit.

Find out the return policy, warranty and delivery information before you purchase.

Don’t lose your identity. You’ve heard it over and again, but it can’t be said enough. Be very stingy with your Social Security number. If you enter this into a Web site, look for the lock symbol and “https.”

Kids can be cool consumers. Children should not be allowed to give out personal family information online.

Talk with them about the dangers and be aware of their online activity.

Keep a paper trail. Know what you’ve bought! Keep records of all transactions

Can’t get no satisfaction? Didn’t get what you ordered? First contact the e-business. If they don’t honor their promises, contact your credit card company and the Better Business Bureau.

If it sounds too good to be true. You know the rest of the phrase. Don’t judge a company by its home page. Consumer beware!

E-business is here to stay and is part of our way of life. But just as we learn to be wary consumers and shoppers in the world of brick and mortar stores, we need to know our rights and do everything we can to protect them.

For additional consumer protection information, contact the local Better Business Bureau at www.greensboro.bbb.org.