Shopping on the Internet

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Shopping on the Internet

Initially only small consumer items such as CDs and books were bought but now online trading has grown to where major purchases such as cars, televisions and holidays are commonplace.

People have become more confident in the internet for the convenience it can bring to busy lifestyles but many also remain wary. Buying online should be no riskier than buying by mail order or on the phone but there can be problems so it's important to know what to look out for and what your rights are.

The Office of Fair Trading has produced an excellent guide entitled Online Shopping but also check out our Top Tips for safer on-line shopping :

	Only purchase using a credit or debit card from traders who have a secure site.

	Use a credit card on purchases over £100 as the credit card company may also be equally responsible if problems arise.
	Try to trade with businesses that are well known, have demonstrated previous satisfactory performance or that have been recommended to you.

	Ensure you know the trader's actual address and telephone number not just their email address.
	As with any other type of purchase, shop around for the best deals and prices.

	Watch out for high postage rates and for other hidden costs, such as VAT and other duty payable, particularly if goods are being imported.
	Remember to check delivery times, particularly if being sent from abroad, and set a date by which you must have delivery, if that is important.

	Check the company's returns policy particularly if you don't like the goods or have changed your mind. Again, if imported you may be faced with a hefty postage bill to return goods. You may also have a seven day cooling off period to return the goods without penalty.
	On the subject of buying from abroad, remember that if there are problems such as faulty goods or non-delivery, it may be difficult to get your complaint dealt with. Your contract will be in the country where the trader is based and it is obviously impractical to take legal action abroad.

	Be very wary of buying expensive items from companies outside the UK or Europe. Only do so if you know them well to limit the risk.
	If you buy from online supermarkets the Office of Fair Trading say that there are further things you need to look out for, particularly how the goods are priced.

	Most importantly, print out the order and any terms and conditions that appear on the web site, just in case of any subsequent disputes or problems.

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