Buying goods and services from websites can offer the chance of a bargain but three quarters of people feel unsafe when shopping online, according to a survey into e-commerce conducted by the Trading Standards Institute for National e-Consumer Week (20 – 24 September 2010).
West Dunbartonshire Council’s Trading Standards and Libraries have joined together to warn the public of West Dunbartonshire to be more vigilant than ever about websites selling counterfeit goods, or sites which turn out to be fake and disappear with people’s hard-earned cash.
The survey found that more than half of would-be online shoppers (63%) fear their card or bank details will get stolen, a tenth (10%) worry their item won’t arrive .
6% of people surveyed were concerned the goods they were purchasing would turn out to be fake. Fake goods which shoppers are particularly warned about include mobile phones, GHD hair straighteners, Nintendo DS Lite consoles, video games, computer software, clothing, toys, perfumes and cosmetics, alcoholic drinks and cigarettes. Many of the counterfeit versions of these products contain dangerous components or may be harmful.
Council Leader, Councillor Ronnie McColl, Vice Convenor for Corporate Services, welcomes the initiative, he said: “The appeal of shopping online is obvious and represents an ever-growing market. Inevitably, some unscrupulous people will take advantage by setting up scams and hiding behind the anonymity which the internet can provide to rip people off. Education is key to beating the scammers and I would urge all residents to take heed of the “stay safe online” message being promoted through the Libraries and Trading Standards services.”
This week, all West Dunbartonshire libraries are displaying posters and staff will be handing out leaflets promoting Trading Standards’ “Stay safe online” message which encourages people to carry on shopping online but to make sure they follow this CHECK list first:
C Choose your shopping sites carefully
H Help yourself by thinking about the price and who you are buying from
E Ensure the site is secure (look for “https” on the address and the padlock symbol)
C Contact Trading Standards if you spot something suspicious
K Keep details of the website and a copy of your order
David McCulloch, Trading Standards Section Head said: “In recent months we have investigated complaints from consumers who have been the victims of online scams including fake Ugg boots, a scam employment opportunity requiring money to be paid up front and T in the Park tickets that didn’t arrive. The consumers were duped into falsely thinking they were dealing with legitimate, UK companies. We advice consumers to ensure that any website they use has a postal address for the trader and use a credit card for payments over £100, but never send your card or pin details via email.”
Richard Aird, Senior Officer ICT & Learning with West Dunbartonshire Libraries says: “We are happy to help Trading Standards promote this message. Our service offers Quest training on using the internet including tips on safe buying online. Our next round of Quest courses will start in October, with timetables and booking forms available in libraries and online now.”
National e-Consumer Week runs from 20 – 24 September. Anyone wanting advice on their consumer rights should call Consumer Direct on 08484 04 05 06 or visit www.wdcweb.info/law-and-licensing/trading-standards
