shopping on the internet is one of the most convenient ways of buying goods these days, but things can go wrong - and should this happen, it is important that consumers know their rights.

When you have bought most items - not including food items - over the net, you have seven working days after the day you receive the goods to change your mind. For services, you have seven working days from the day after the order was made.

However, you must not use the goods during this period. The cooling-off period is just for you to decide whether you want them or not. You must take care of the goods while they are in your possession, and you may be liable for the cost of the return of the goods, so check with the supplier.

There are certain things you should do:

Make sure you know the trader's address, so you can contact them in the event there is a problem

Don't assume the company is based in the UK, just because it has .uk on the end of the web address

Use websites that have an encryption facility - this is where a padlock is displayed in the bottom corner of the web page when you are making a payment

Always shop around - you may get it cheaper elsewhere

Save the web page and any other information relating to the transaction

Generally, if your purchase is £100 or more and you pay by credit card - you have the same rights against your credit card company as the trader.

When shopping on line, suppliers have to abide by certain rules under The Consumer (Distance Selling) Regulations 2000.

Before your transaction is complete, they have to provide you with information including the identity of the supplier, what the goods/services are, the price, payment arrangements, cancellation rights and confirmation of order.

If things go wrong you should contact the trader in writing, outlining your complaint and giving them the opportunity to put things right. You should also keep copies of all correspondence and make a note of any telephone conversations.

If you are still not satisfied after contacting the trader then phone Consumer Direct on 08454 040 506.

Matt Boxall, manager of City of York Council trading standards, said: "Many transactions are perfectly legitimate and online shopping is now a convenient method of shopping.

"People feel more relaxed shopping in the comfort of their own home, but they need to take these simple precautions to ensure they don't have a problem with the trader."

Updated: 10:46 Thursday, January 26, 2006