Here are 6 tips you should note when purchasing products over the internet (source : Which Web Trader)
- Look at several sites to check prices. And make sure you know the full cost, including postage, duty and so on. You can also use shopping agents that will check the price of goods for you.
- If you haven't heard of a company, see if any friends know of it, search the internet for references, or ask about it in a relevant newsgroup.
- Keep records of adverts, confirmation messages and e-mails by printing them. If you don't receive confirmation, e-mail and ask for it. Ask for a delivery time as well.
- Look for 'real world' contact details, such as a telephone number and geographical address.
- Plastic cards are the usual way to buy over the internet - and paying by credit card gives you extra protection if the goods cost over £100. Check your card statements carefully, especially if prices are quoted in a foreign currency. The Distance Selling Directive gives you a right to a refund of all money taken through fraudulent use of your credit/charge card.
- Using UK sites makes it easier to enforce your rights but '.uk' in the site name doesn't necessarily mean it's a UK site. Look for a UK contact address and prices in sterling. If in doubt, e-mail the company and ask. Where a contract requires payment in advance, the supplier must provide their address..
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