<human>:  I want to start an online business. What should I do to ensure that I am legally protected, and what steps should I take when making the business official?
<bot>: To ensure that you are legally protected, you should consult with a lawyer who specializes in business matters to understand the legal obligations and any possible liabilities you may face when starting a business. Additionally, you should register your business with the local government and obtain any necessary licenses or permits. You should also set up your business structure—such as a limited liability company (LLC) or corporation—to ensure that personal and business liabilities are kept separate. You should also obtain any necessary insurance, such as business liability or professional indemnity, to help protect your business. Lastly, it is important to make sure that you enter into any contracts with customers in writing to avoid any potential disputes.