Bargain hunters warned ‘ beware of online scams’

Consumer chief’s warning on Black Friday

BARGAIN hunters have been warned to beware of fake products and high-risk websites in the run-up to Christmas.

One consumer campaigner said rogue traders view today’s Black Friday and the following Cyber Monday promotions as an ‘early Christmas present’.

And a shocking 139 websites have been identified by anti-fraud campaigners as ‘high risk’.

People are being urged to be especially wary when buying mobile phones, clothes, shoes and jewellery – as these are the online purchases most likely to be fake.

Shoppers looking for bargains on Yeezy trainers, Kylie Jenner makeup, hair dryers, drones and Fitbit watches are vulnerable to online fraudsters – as scammers are selling fake versions of these items.

Experts at the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission say shoppers have very strong rights when buying online – as long as they keep to basic guidelines. However, they do not have the same consumer protections if they buy from websites outside the EU, as consumer law protects shoppers on EU-based sites, but not beyond that.

Consumers’ Association of Ireland chief Dermott Jewell said: ‘Every rogue, counterfeiter and person determined to make money sees this Black Friday and Cyber Monday their early Christmas present.

‘We do get complaints about rogue traders. The plans are well made, the structures are ready and they’re ready to get in, take what they can and then take down evidence of their existence.’

He advised people to take ‘screen shots’ of the web pages when ordering and always use a credit card.

‘That way you enjoy protection under our consumer law,’ Mr Jewell added. ‘Also, when buying online, check the web address starts with “HTTPS” – that means it’s secure and registered with current security on it. Generally, if an offer looks too good to be true, it probably is – you can put money on it and it’s usually yours.’

Mr Jewell also emphasised that one of the main things to be aware of is making sure something ordered online is due to be delivered in time for Christmas.

Most complaints relate to delivery times and are usually the customer’s fault, he added.

‘The vast majority of complaints arise from a misunderstanding on the consumer side initially on the delivery specifics,’ said Mr Jewell.

‘It’s so late in the year but the goods must be delivered within 30 days, but it needs to be specified as you’re buying, “I must have this by this date”. It’s essential if it’s a Christmas present, its really crucial and it’s one of the ones that causes problems. You have to say when you must have it by, and if the seller is outside the EU, then you’re in trouble.’

Shoppers were also warned that if something seems cheaper than expected, it could be poor quality, fake or just non-existent.

They were also urged to use PayPal or other similar methods when buying on auction sites, and to never transfer money to a stranger. Shoppers were further warned that if purchasing tickets, to always buy them from official sources and never pay by direct transfer. christian.mccashin@dailymail.ie