East Antrim MLA Alastair Ross has urged caution when shopping online, especially in the run up to Christmas. Following the closure of a number of websites who fell foul of trading standards for selling counterfeit goods, it highlights the need to be aware of the pitfalls when purchasing from unknown websites. Mr Ross said,
“Whilst online shopping is a convenient and very helpful way to do Christmas shopping there are those who unfortunately go to great lengths to rip off consumers.
I would urge caution when purchasing from websites which promise large discounts on branded goods which would not otherwise be offered in the branded shops in town. You may think you are getting a good deal but what you might get in return are counterfeit and illegal goods or no goods at all and no way of getting your money back.
It is important to verify the legitimacy of the website you wish to purchase from. Check for contact details, for UK landline number and address, it is not enough to just have a co.uk. website address as this does not mean the company is based in the U.K.
Do not give out you credit card details before you are certain that the website and company can be easily contacted should things go wrong. Take the steps to protect yourself and your consumer rights and hopefully online shopping can continue to reduce the stress of Christmas shopping and not add to it.”