Consumer Protection professionals have issued a warning ahead of the Christmas buying season as many alter-ego websites will catch customers out.
Rogue traders rear their heads every year, in a bid to make quick money from unsuspecting buyers, and with some people still nervous about shopping with crowds, the CPCC has issued some great advice for online shoppers.
The watchdog has also warned of shipping delays and stock shortages impacting your Christmas shopping plans.
Their warning read; “At any time of the year, if there is high consumer demand for certain products or services, it can provide an opportunity for ill-intentioned traders to take advantage.
“As many consumers may be starting their Christmas shopping earlier this year, the CCPC is advising consumers to be particularly wary of traders offering popular Christmas high demand goods for sale and to follow these simple steps before they buy.”
Always buy from reputable retailers
It can be hard to know who you are buying from online, and so it’s important to do some quick research - check reviews and social media pages.
Check where the business is based, and if you can’t find this information easily, approach with caution.
If the business is based outside of the EU, you should consider finding an alternative EU store to ensure you have stronger rights should an issue arise.
Buyer be aware
If you come across a product that is out of stock everywhere else be careful of small unknown traders offering these high-demand goods online or on social media.
Do some research, look at online consumer forums and on social media for additional consumer reviews or feedback about the business before you buy.
Also remember, while the price is important, don’t let it be the only deciding factor when buying online - a cheaper price doesn’t always mean a better deal.
If it looks too good to be true, it usually is.
Watch out for exclusively five-star reviews
When reading consumer reviews on business’ websites, be wary if all of the reviews are positive.
It’s important to keep in mind that products and services with authentic consumer reviews are more likely to have a mix of consumer feedback across the rating scale.
Browse the website before you buy
Watch out for poor English, such as spelling and grammar mistakes, or language that doesn’t sound right.
Just because a website has a .ie address does not mean it is an Irish registered business.
You should also check that the website lists contact information, including a contact email address, phone number, and geographical address.
You can also look for VAT Numbers or company registration numbers as this information can be verified through government and EU websites.
Reputable and legitimate companies will always list ways to get in touch with them.
If there is absolutely no contact information, be wary.
Pay securely
Consider using online payment services, such as PayPal or a pre-paid credit card, so as to avoid potential scammers getting a hold of your bank account details.
Pre-paid debit cards or credit cards provide an extra layer of protection as there is no direct withdrawal from your bank account.
Be alert to traders who offer a bank transfer facility or those who request you to pay by card over the telephone or to come into the store (sometimes a pop-up) to pay by cash.
When you are paying lookout for an ‘s’ after ‘HTTP at the beginning of the URL and a padlock symbol in your browser’s toolbar which shows the website is secure.
If it isn’t there, be very wary of proceeding any further. Finally, keep all records as it is important to have all of the details of your interactions with the trader in case an issue arises.
Check the items as soon as they arrive
If you buy online, don’t just hide the boxes away until Christmas.
Open the packages and check the items for any irregularities or issues as soon as they arrive.
If you are buying children’s toys online, be sure to look for the CE mark on the product, in the instruction manual or on the packaging.
The CE mark is essentially the manufacturer’s declaration that the product complies with EU safety regulations and standards.
If there is no visible CE mark, it may be an indication that the toys do not meet the required safety standards and should not be used.
