Safe Websites? How to protect myself?

How can someone go about getting information on a website that is opperating as a business?

For example, if I find a site I am considering using, how do I know it is not someone in their basement just collecting credit card numbers?

THX

Not much you can rely on other than reputation.

Never give your credit card to anyone online unless you’ve got a good idea of their reputation.

Or use PayPal. They have excellent buyer protection.

-J