Elderly Wary Of E-Commerce

Middle-aged and older Americans are flocking to the Internet in record numbers, but many remain wary of doing business online.

A recent AARP study found that less than 64 percent are “very confident” of their ability to handle electronic financial transactions. And a strong majority — 59 percent — said businesses shouldn’t be allowed to require consumers to use electronic contracts and records.

Other findings:

* Those who rated themselves as novice computer users — 38 percent of the AARP study pool — tend to be older (over age 65) and less educated (high school or less) and to have lower incomes (under $50,000).

* About 51 percent comparison-shop on the Web, but only 39 percent actually buy anything.

* Seventy-four percent of online shoppers worry about potential misuse of personal information, yet just 3 percent think they may have been defrauded in an online purchase.

* Few of those responding to the survey do much to protect themselves, either because of an unwillingness or inability to pay for system upgrades that would improve security.

The survey of 1,002 computer users over age 45 was conducted for AARP in February by Market Facts Inc.

Whether you’re an Internet novice or a pro, here are a few new, useful or entertaining Web sites to explore:

* Cleared for takeoff: The summer travel season is off to a fast start and high gasoline prices make flying a more attractive alternative.

Unpredictable weather, mechanical glitches, even labor disputes can play havoc with airline departure and arrival times.

Keep track of changes in flight status by calling up this Web site. Plug in a city and you’ll get the latest available information on incoming and outgoing flights.

http://www.flightarrivals.com

* Tying the knot: Planning a wedding is a little like engineering a cross-country move. Most people look forward to the end result, but dread getting there.

AskMe.com offers prospective brides and grooms access to legions of experts, including 350 who specialize in wedding-related issues. Pick an expert from the site’s long list and pose a question. When the expert responds, an e-mail directs the user back to the site to read the answer. It’s free.

http://www.askme.com