Tips for Shopping Online
Make sure you're getting a good deal
- Shop around by using price comparison sites and multiple search engines.
- When comparing prices, check that the advertised price includes everything you have to pay, for example tax and delivery charges.
Know who you're dealing with
- Check the trader's details on their website, including their geographic and email addresses.
- Don’t assume ‘.UK’ means that the seller is based in the UK.
- Read all trader reviews and help others by writing reviews when you make purchases.
Know your distance selling rights
- Check your cancellation rights before making a purchase: under the Distance Selling Regulations you can get a full refund on many products if you cancel within seven working days after the day of receipt.
- If returning goods you are entitled to a refund of the original delivery cost but check the terms and conditions to see who will cover the cost of returning them.
- Traders are not allowed to deduct a restocking charge or administration fee for returned goods.
- If you wish to cancel, you must take reasonable care of the goods you are returning.
- Check and keep all receipts, order confirmations and correspondence.
- Goods should be delivered within 30 days after date of order, unless you agree to a different delivery timeframe.
- Complain to the trader if you have a problem shopping online.
- Contact Consumer Direct if the trader does not resolve your problem.
Protect your personal and financial information
- Use security software and keep it up to date.
- look for a padlock symbol (
) or 'https' in the website address before inputting personal details.
- If you use a credit card for purchases of £100 or more, you may get reimbursement from the credit card company if something goes wrong.
- Check your bank and credit card statements regularly and contact your bank immediately if you think your details have been disclosed.
