Shop smart this Christmas
Internet shopping is a quick and convenient way to get all your Christmas gifts bought, however with online fraud increasing, it’s recommended that you use precautions when buying online here are some helpful tips:
1. Some companies have a great website however it doesn’t mean that they are law-abiding, check trader’s details to make sure that there is a geographic address and email address, these are required by law.
2. When shopping around for the best deals using comparison sites make sure the advertised price includes tax and delivery charges if not you deal might not be as good as you first thought.
3. There are some online retailers who are part of the Internet Shopping Is Safe (ISIS) trustmark scheme, ensuring that you are protected against fraud.
4. Only give out your payment card details over a secure connection look for a padlock symbol or ‘https’ in the website address, never give details over email and never give out your card pin number.
5. For orders over £100 and below £30,000 you should consider using a credit card as these give you extra protection if anything should go wrong.
6. Keep records of what you order including copies of email invoices.
7. Before ordering items check terms and conditions for returns, and check your goods as soon as they have arrived because your rights to refunds, repairs and replacements can depend on how quickly you act.
8. You also have at least 7 days to cancel an order and request a refund if buying from an EU retailer.
9. Check your bank statements regularly, you have at least 90 days to report a suspect transaction
10. If you do find that you have a problem, you should contact the seller then, if you have to, the payment company, your local Trading Standards Office and any ‘trustmark’ organsiation the seller is registered with.
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