Shopping on the Internet
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. Under Isle of Man and European legislation 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 should be within 30 days. Goods & Services ordered from UK & European Countries will be covered by the "Distance Selling" Regulations. A leaflet on "shopping at a distance" is available from our Information Centre.
- 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 should 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 if you paid for the goods using a major credit card, 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.
Our Safe Internet Shopping leaflet can be read or downloaded from our Consumer Publications & Information section.
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