Can Currys demand I buy security software?

QWhen I went to buy a new laptop from Currys, the salesman told me that I had to buy my antivirus software from the shop at the same time. If I didn’t, he said the laptop wouldn’t be covered for any faults, even if I used antivirus bought elsewhere. Currys lost my custom. Was it breaking the law?

AYes it was. Chris would always be covered by the Consumer Rights Act (CRA) for inherent faults, no matter what security software he used and where this was bought. Inherent faults, whether related to hardware or software, are problems that exist before you buy an item. By definition, they can’t be caused by malware downloaded after purchase.

However, if Currys had offered a warranty providing g cover for a computer affected d by malware after sale, it could d apply terms and conditions, such as buying a specific brand of security software in the store. Importantly though, this warranty wouldn’t override the CRA if Chris could prove the software wasn’t fit for purpose.

We’ve told Currys about Chris’s case and the store involved, because this is misleading information and a breach of the Unfair Trading Regulations. We’ll give you Currys’ response when we receive it. If you’re ever in a similar situation, you should mention both the CRA and the Unfair Trading Regulations to the sales assistant and ask to speak to a manager. Emailing the company’s boss may bring about a change in policy: alexander.baldock@dixonscarphone.com.