How to protect yourself when buying online
While Jamaicans await the updating of local legislation, Campbell said there are other things consumers can do to protect themselves online, and reduce incidents of abuse, such as identity theft and fraud.
One such measure is to ensure that there is a closed padlock to the left of the web address in the browser, denoting a secure connection. Consumers can also check for an ‘s’ added to the http to create https in the address, which also means secure.
She is also advising consumers to avoid clicking on email links even if it is a great buy sent by a friend.
“Don’t respond to messages which ask for your personal financial information, whether the message comes from a text, email, phone call, or an ad. Use established store brands to make retail purchases. Online stores must have a verifiable address and working phone number; a website, with reviews which you can test, prior to disclosing or entering your banking details,” she said.
“The CAC is warning consumers to stop making purchases from [social media] posts and pictures. Do your due diligence,” she warned.
She further advised consumers not to send money or input bank card details into any site they do not know or send cash to an account number received via social media.
“Family or not, confirm the identity of the person. Read your bills and online statements regularly to ensure that cancelled transactions are indeed cancelled,” she added.
Citing recent natural disasters such as Hurricane Dorian, which devastated The Bahamas, she said that consumers should give only to charities which are established.
She also cautioned against purchasing medication online, especially those that claim to be a ‘miracle drug’. This, she said, is dangerous as the consumer could be hurt.
“Do not invest in land-buying schemes in exotic spaces or shared rental schemes,” Campbell added.
“Before investing, research the company’s directors, review annual reports and other historical data available. Contact the Financial Services Commission if you still have doubts. There is no such thing as a sure thing in investment,” she added.