Every electronic transaction you make is recorded as part of how the system works. This means that you leave behind you a trail of transactions with clues to your location, habits, life style and a detailed list of every purchase you've ever made.

The problem isn't what is currently done with this data; for the time being it is probably secure on your banks servers. The issue is what could be done with it in the future. The information is stored for such a long time and it is available to the government upon subpoena. The magazine you buy today could be the revolutionary paper of tomorrow. The air soft rifle you legally purchase now might be illegal next year. It could be worse. The future is uncertain and by the time your transaction trail is used against you it will be too late to remove it.

Think now, be aware that everything you purchase on your laser or credit card is logged. Are you happy that some human being in your bank can check and see what you spend your money on?

When carrying out electronic transactions, even with a trusted shop or bank, you must remember that while the company, bank or service may be trustworthy, the individuals within that body may not.

When shopping on the high street be aware that the copy of the receipt the shop keeps from when you use your credit card contains the full credit card number, your name and expiry date. The only pieces of information a shop assistant then needs to use your card online would be the 3 digit security number on the back of your card, which is readable as you type in your pin, and your address. Do you have your address on your Facebook page? They have your name.

Ensure that you store receipts at the time of purchase and ensure that you store them in a safe place. This ensures that should discretion occur, you have proof of the original transaction. When disposing of old receipts always burn or shred them.