i've got to blame somebody (just joining the new culture) - bob's got lots of my money...again!!!!

I've just come to order a set and I'm somewhat alarmed to see no encryption on the payment stage of the checkout process.

Is this the norm with backpackinglight.co.uk?

ChrisB, it shouldn't be a problem but, if you're worried about it, you can order over the phone.

Btw, if Rose should happen to read this, sorry I missed your call and yes, my order turned up safe and sound, despite me putting my old postcode on it :o)

I will ring to order, but if somebody doesn't notice the lack of the padlock to confirm it's an SSL encrypted page then their card details could well be compromised.

In addition, the site blurb says:

"We are fully committed to providing full security both through our on-line and telephone mail order service. We ensure your details are safe for all sales transactions with us and encrypted so third parties cannot read it."

Not that I can see.

Hmm i didnt notice that and its usually one of the first things that i check for online.

I queried this and got this reply from Bob C


Yes the server is secure and your data is stored there until I retrieve it,
however we have to apply for a certificate and that takes a while to come
through and costs money just to have the little 'lock' symbol on the browser
bar. We are awaiting it.

However, please feel free to call me on 01684 576423 and place the order
over the phone and we can do it manually.

Sorry for the inconvenience.


I think what this means is that your details get transmitted unencrypted across the internet to their machine, but once on that machine ARE encrypted in their database.

I thought this was a bit pants myself so ordered over the phone.
In other respects it was OK, the goods arrived promptly and he even rang me up change the delivery address from my work to my home when he realised it was going to arrive on a Saturday. Now you wouldn't get that from Field and Trek!

From what i can remember the page were you register for the site (e-mail address, home address) is unsecure but the page where you enter you credit card details is sure.

Hope I can clear this up.

The encryption means your details are stored on the web server in an encrypted format for later retreival by the company you are making the purchase from (ie myself). Which they are.

No one else can get to it and even if they did, they can't read the details.

The card data is then processed manually on my PDQ machine.

This is how 99% of internet businesses work, as 'automatic' card transactions are reserved for those companies who can afford it via a banking service.

Re the lock symbol. This is indeed applied for and we are still awaiting the whatever coding we need for the web boys to put it on the page.

To get a PDQ machine you have to be checked, approved and rated accordingly. So my statement about committed to security is still correct. I have no records of card details stored anywhere once the purchase is completed.

Of course, should anyone feel concerned we can do it the old fashioned way and do it over the phone.

Talking of which, how many times have we all 'reserved' a hotel room or holiday or restaurant and read our details over the phone (to hold the booking) to find them on a scrap of paper when we arrive? Now THAT'S insecure.

Either way the Airstream Bags are dissapearing rapidly, so do order in whatever way you feel comfortable with.

Hope this helps and sorry, once again, for any confusion.

Having had a lot of money nicked out of my account from online fraud it definately pays to be cautious.

I now scan my computer with spyware before I even consider buying anything. If at all possible I buy on my boyfriends Mac.

It sounds like a right pain for small businesses to get the lock symbol though!

I think spyware is the main threat. If you have a keyboard logger on your computer they can find out a lot of stuff!

ill second that about spyware, ive not had any bother (touch wood) as have always been up to date with the software etc but i know pple who have been caught out.

Id definately recomend installing spybot search and destroy, javacool spyware blaster and hijackthis along with some decent firewall and antivirus software.

An alternative is to use the paypal system to setup a (encrypted) payment page. People can pay using Visa etc as well as paypal accounts. I think this is easier than getting your own certificate, but I've no idea how the fees compare.

yep! i'm with moggy there. firewall and antivirus always up to date and working properly.

go to
http://www.grc.com/default.htm

and run all their software to check your pooter for vulnerability.

Well I for one have got my goodies and are happy once again with BPL.co.uk thank you very much.

I've been cloned before and it was due to someone in a restaurant copying my details, never with a respectable retailer. I certainly wouldn't want to suggest as Chris implies, that BPL might not be secure.

Good God man, have you not seen what Bob has been up to for the last 6 months? I would certainly be a bit pis**d if you suggested that about me or my business.

True we all have to be more vigilant these days, but pick your comments with care. These guys seem to be working hard at doing net retailing a new way and inferrences like this don't do the hard working ones many favours. In fact I can't think of a single outdoor retailer who has given me cause for concern ever!

Which is more than I can say about the restaurant trade.

Bobs business looks great. Haven't actually bought anything from him yet, but I regularly look at the store.

I think people were just a little concerned about not seeing the SSL lock symbol. You can't blame people for getting a little worried about this.

I personally am reassured by Bobs explaination and it is great to have customer service on OM.

Fraud is just rife these days (online, restaurants, cash machines, you name it!) unfortunately, so people are right to question Bob. I'm sure he doesn't take it as a personal attack on his business, which it isn't.

Anyway, this is completely off topic.

The airstream thingys look good!

Blimey busy, busy day. Hundreds of parcels flying out across the land ...

Na .. fully understand the reasons behind the question. No sweat, just wish it was all sorted, I'm in the hands of other sadly.

Anyway, hope you guys enjoy opening your goodies tomorrow. Enjoy ;-)

just got my bag thingys, theyre great! i can't stop puting stuff in them and squishing them up really small!

(i really must get out more) lol

I'm glad I'm not the only one, WW, I was starting to get worried! Feel a bit like Eeyore with his burst balloon and empty honey pot (but rather happier)!

aye ive been doing the same, its amazing how much you can fit into the xsmall one.

Mine arrived today and can't wait to give them a try.

Got mine yesterday, nit sure what I'm going to use the big one for yet. Also got a free 'first aid kit'. Very happy with the price and the service.