Onlineshopping

Online shopping is the process of purchasing goods or services over the Internet, typically through websites or mobile applications. It includes marketplaces, direct-to-consumer storefronts, and consumer-to-consumer exchanges, and depends on electronic payment systems and logistics networks to complete transactions.

Since the 1990s, e-commerce has expanded rapidly with the rise of platforms such as marketplaces and retailer sites. Key features include product search and comparison tools, customer reviews, personalized recommendations, shopping carts, secure checkout, and flexible delivery options such as home delivery or in-store pickup.

Benefits of online shopping include convenience, access to a wider selection, price transparency, and the ability to shop 24/7. Common drawbacks are potential security and privacy risks, fraud, inconsistent returns, and environmental concerns from packaging and transportation.

Common payment methods are credit and debit cards, digital wallets, bank transfers, and buy-now-pay-later services. Security relies on encryption, tokenization, and standards such as PCI DSS. Logistics cover warehousing, inventory management, and last-mile delivery with order tracking.

Global markets enable cross-border purchasing, raising issues of duties, taxes, and compliance. Regulatory frameworks address consumer protection and data privacy. Emerging trends include mobile shopping, social commerce, voice and visual search, AI-driven recommendations, augmented reality experiences, and enhanced omnichannel strategies.