Global Glossary – Essential Terms for Online Buyers

The process of verifying that a user or transaction is genuine before granting access or completing a purchase. It typically involves passwords, codes, or biometric checks.

The final stage of an online purchase where the buyer reviews items, enters payment details, and confirms the order. A smooth checkout process reduces cart abandonment.

The percentage of website visitors who complete a desired action, such as making a purchase. A higher conversion rate indicates a more effective shopping experience.

A statement explaining how a website collects, stores, and uses small data files (cookies) on a visitor's device. Users are typically asked to consent to cookie use upon visiting a site.

The buying and selling of goods or services between buyers and sellers located in different countries. It involves considerations such as customs duties, currency exchange, and international shipping.

The value at which one country's currency can be converted into another's at a given moment. Fluctuating rates can affect the final price paid by international buyers.

A service provided by a company to assist buyers before, during, and after a purchase. It may be available via chat, email, or phone.

The right of individuals to control how their personal information is collected, stored, and used by organizations. Regulations such as GDPR set legal standards for data privacy across many regions.

An electronic application that stores payment information, allowing users to make transactions without physical cards. Examples include mobile pay apps and browser-based payment tools.

The unique web address that identifies a website on the internet, such as example.com. A domain name makes it easier for users to find and remember a specific site.

A security method that converts data into a coded format so only authorized parties can read it. SSL/TLS encryption is commonly used to protect payment information on websites.

A section of a website listing frequently asked questions along with their answers. It helps users quickly find information without contacting support.

The General Data Protection Regulation is a European Union law governing how organizations handle personal data. It grants individuals rights over their data and imposes obligations on businesses that process it.

Technology that identifies the physical location of a device based on its IP address or GPS signal. Websites use geolocation to display region-specific content, pricing, or language.

An online platform where multiple sellers offer products or services to buyers in one place. Marketplaces handle transactions while individual sellers manage their own inventory.

A feature that allows a website to display prices and accept payments in more than one currency. It improves the shopping experience for international customers.

A technology service that authorizes and processes online payments between buyers and sellers. It acts as the secure bridge between the customer's bank and the merchant's account.

A legal document that explains how a website or company collects, uses, and protects users' personal information. Most jurisdictions require websites to publish a clear and accessible privacy policy.

A statement outlining the conditions under which a buyer may return a product and receive their money back. Clear refund policies build trust and reduce disputes between buyers and sellers.

A standard security protocol that establishes an encrypted connection between a web server and a browser. Websites with SSL display a padlock icon in the address bar, indicating a secure connection.

A virtual tool on an e-commerce site that temporarily holds selected items before the buyer proceeds to checkout. It allows users to review, add, or remove products before completing a purchase.

A legal agreement between a website or platform and its users that outlines the rules and conditions of use. Users typically must accept the terms before accessing or purchasing from a site.

A unique code assigned to a shipment that allows the buyer to monitor its delivery status in real time. It is usually provided by the seller or courier after an order has been dispatched.

A security process that requires users to verify their identity using two separate methods before accessing an account. Common combinations include a password plus a one-time code sent to a mobile device.