Online shopping facts for kids
Online shopping means buying things like products or services directly from a seller using the Internet. It's like visiting a store, but you do it from your computer or phone! This way of shopping is part of something bigger called electronic commerce.
An online shop can be called many things, like an e-shop, web store, or virtual store. It's similar to buying items at a regular store or in a shopping mall. When you, as a customer, buy from a business, it's called business-to-consumer (B2C) online shopping. When one business buys from another business, it's called business-to-business (B2B) online shopping.
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The Start of Online Shopping
The World Wide Web became open for business use in 1991. This was a big step for online shopping.
In 1994, more important things happened:
- Online banking started.
- Pizza Hut opened an online pizza shop.
- Netscape introduced Secure Sockets Layer (SSL). This technology helps keep your information safe when you shop online. It's super important for secure payments.
- A German company called Intershop launched its first online shopping system.
Then, in 1995, Amazon started its online shopping website. A year later, in 1996, eBay also appeared, offering a new way to buy and sell items online.
How Online Shopping Works
A good online store website is easy to use. It helps you find what you want to buy.
Finding Products Online
Online stores usually have a website with a product catalog. You can look through items using different search options. These might include the type of product, its price, what it's made of, or even what age group it's for. The website also gives you details about the products, the sellers, and how to get help if you need it.
Adding to Your Cart and Paying
When you find something you want to buy, you usually click a button like "add to cart." This "shopping cart" collects all the items you plan to purchase. Once you're happy with your choices, you confirm your order. Then, you make a payment, often using a credit card or another online payment method. Making sure the website is easy to use is very important for online stores.
Why Online Shopping is Popular
In the 21st century, online shopping has become very popular. Many people, especially busy adults, find it a very convenient way to shop. You can buy things from anywhere, at any time, without leaving your home.
Images for kids
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Michael Aldrich, who helped start online shopping in the 1980s.
See also
In Spanish: Tienda en línea para niños
