With the increased use of the Internet, shopping is becoming a truly
global experience, with more and more consumers turning to their
computers to buy things like software, CDs and books. Like mail order,
people appreciate the convenience of not having to traipse around the
shops, and can browse among a huge choice of goods in their own time.
But shopping on the Internet can bring its own problems too. Check
out our Top 10 Tips for safer on-line shopping.
- Be careful when you give your credit or debit card details on the
Internet. Always find out whether the company has a secure site, and
look for information about the protection the company has put in
place.
- The trader must give their name, address and telephone number, not
just their e-mail address. They must also fully describe the goods for
sale and orders must be confirmed in writing.
- As with any other type of purchase, shop around for the best deals
and prices. You are now entitled to a 7 day "cooling off" period when
you can change your mind.
- Watch out for high postage rates and for other hidden costs, such
as VAT and other duty payable, particularly if goods are being sent
from abroad.
- See if you can get personal recommendations for companies you have
not done business with before.
- Remember, goods being sent from abroad may take some time to be
delivered. Check with the trader how long this will take, and set a
delivery date that you must have them by, if that is important. Where
no delivery date has been agreed then delivery must be within 30 days.
Goods & Services ordered from UK & European Countries will be covered
by the "Distance Selling" Regulations. Check out our leaflet “Shopping
from Home” for more information on your rights under this important
law.
- Check what the company’s policy is on returning goods that you
don’t like or have changed your mind about. Again, if they have come
from abroad, you may be faced with a hefty postage bill to return
them. Refunds must be made within 30 days.
- On the subject of buying from abroad, remember that if you have
problems like faulty goods or non-delivery, it might be very difficult
to get your complaint dealt with. Although your contract will probably
be covered by U.K. law, allowing you to sue in your local court,
getting money out of a company based abroad may be impractical.
- For that reason, don’t buy very expensive items from companies
outside the UK or Europe unless you know them well - that way, if
things do go wrong, you limit the risk.
- Most importantly, print out the order, and keep any terms and
conditions that appear on the web site, just in case of any disputes
or problems later on
Information courtesy of
www.tradingstandards.gov.uk
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