NASHVILLE -- With the holidays quickly approaching, millions of shoppers will "go online" seeking hassle-free shopping.

Those who plan to shop online should be aware that they may get more than they bargain for with Internet scams and identity thieves targeting holiday shoppers.

Here are some safety tips for online shoppers from the Tennessee Division of Consumer Affairs:

* "Know who you're dealing with. Confirm the online seller's physical address and phone number in case you have questions or problems. If you get an e-mail or pop-up message while you're browsing that asks for personal or financial information, don't reply or click on the link in the message. Legitimate companies don't ask for this information via e-mail. When the web page asks for your credit card information, the Web address should begin with 'https://' instead of 'http://.'

* "Know exactly what you're buying. Read the seller's description of the product closely, especially the fine print. Words like 'refurbished,' 'vintage,' or 'close-out' may indicate that the product is in less-than-mint condition.

* "Know what it will cost. Check out Web sites that offer price comparisons. To get the best consumer protections, pay with a credit card. If there are any problems with your order the bank can be notified and the charge disputed. Factor shipping and handling -- along with your needs and budget -- into the total cost of the order. Do not send cash under any circumstances.

* "Check out the terms of the deal, like refund policies and delivery dates. Can you return the item for a full refund if you're not satisfied? If you return it, find out who pays the shipping costs or restocking fees, and when you will receive your order.

* "Keep a paper trail. Print and save records of your online transactions, including the product description and price, the online receipt, and copies of every e-mail you send or receive from the seller. Don't e-mail personal or financial information. Read your credit card statements as you receive them and be on the lookout for unauthorized charges.

* "Don't e-mail your financial information. E-mail is not a secure method of transmitting financial information like your credit card, checking account, or Social Security number.

* "Check the privacy policy. It should let you know what personal information the Web site operators are collecting, why, and how they're going to use the information.

For more information or to report violations of the state Consumer Protection Act or unfair business practices, call Consumer Affairs at 1-800-342-8385 or go to www.tennessee.gov/consumer.