Scots encouraged to shop online safely
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Scots have been encouraged to shop online safely as National Consumer Week gets underway today.
Record numbers of people are expected to shop online in the run-up to Christmas, with Black Friday kick-starting sales next week.
With coronavirus restrictions still in place across the country, consumers are also being encouraged to shop locally online, with many small retailers turning to the internet for the first time.
National Consumer Week operates across the UK, and in Scotland it is led by Advice Direct Scotland – which runs the national consumer advice service consumeradvice.scot – and Trading Standards Scotland, with the support of the Scottish Government.
The theme for 2020 is online shopping and deliveries, with promotional campaigns running to encourage Scots to stay safe online, know their rights, look out for unfair delivery charges and ensure they don’t buy counterfeit goods. Online adverts will use the hashtag #NCWScotland.
Scotlan's business minister Jamie Hepburn said: “As our shopping habits adapt and change it is important that everyone has the information they need to avoid online scams, identify unfair delivery costs and ensure they get a good service.
“This year National Consumer Week is focused on raising awareness of these issues and what people can do if something does go wrong – offering straightforward advice that could save money and disappointment.
“While the shift in how we shop has offered a lifeline to some consumers and businesses, I’d also encourage people to support our Scotland Loves Local campaign, think local first and support local high streets safely and in line with public health guidelines.
“The Scottish Government is taking action to protect consumers. We have launched a free online parcel delivery pricing map which can be found at www.fairdeliveries.scot to help people identify unfair delivery charges. Next year we will also establish Consumer Scotland, a new body to represent the interests of consumers that will focus on investigating consumer harm and developing solutions to tackle it.”
Andrew Bartlett, chief executive of Advice Direct Scotland, said: “Online shopping has brought huge benefits for people and can save time and money.
“Retailers are hoping for a bumper winter, and people can choose to shop with their local stores if they sell goods online.
“This week we’re reminding Scots that it’s important to know your rights so that you can shop online safely.
“Unfortunately, there can be delays in deliveries or unfair charges, issues contacting traders to rectify issues when they arise, and additional problems with damaged or faulty goods.
“Consumer legislation is there to protect us when things do not go to plan, and our team is on hand to help Scots with free, practical and impartial advice.”
Councillor Kelly Parry, who chairs Trading Standards Scotland’s governance board, believes that this National Consumer Week it is more important than ever that consumers are aware of their rights when shopping online and know what to do if things go wrong.
“Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, more and more consumers have been shopping online and this trend looks set to continue over the Christmas period," she said.
“For many people, budgets will be particularly tight this year and it can be tempting to click on a social media advert or unfamiliar website offering deals on big brands or in-demand items.
“Unfortunately, more people have also fallen victim to online scammers who set up fake websites or stores on online marketplaces in an attempt to steal their personal and financial details.
“Trading Standards want to help consumers recognise and avoid online shopping scams while supporting legitimate businesses.
“Shop safely online this Christmas and please remember that, if something does goes wrong, there is advice and support available to you.”
Key tips for online shoppers:
Make the most of your money – check prices with other retailers before any final decisions.
Avoid hidden delivery charges – check the cost of shipping to your address at fairdeliveries.scot.
Use a credit card if spending over £100 – your purchase will be protected under the Consumer Credit Act.
Check the returns policy – retailers have different policies on returning unwanted goods.
Don’t buy fake goods – they may not be safe, and you might not be able to get a refund.
Avoid scammers – check the website is secure and that it has a valid UK address, returns policy and terms and conditions.
Remember that help is available if something goes wrong – organisations such as consumeradvice.scot will help you resolve the problem.
