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DID you bag a nice bargain on Black Friday, or are you holding out until tomorrow’s Cyber Monday?

Whatever you are shopping for online, it’s important to know your rights and to avoid falling victim to scams.

At this time of year crooks are out in force looking for ways to rip off hardworking Brits.

But the Consumer Rights Act 2015 offers guidance for consumers and businesses alike, clarifying the rules on refunds, unfair contract terms, and the right to a return or reissue of sub-par or faulty products.

While such laws protect consumers and businesses, rogue traders and counterfeit dealers still slip through the net.

Be wary when shopping in some online stores and social media marketplaces as goods can often be counterfeit, poor quality or even potentially dangerous.

Chartered Trading Standards Institute boss Leon Livermore told me: “Dangerous counterfeit and unverified goods may cost less in money but could cost you your home or even a life. Taking the time to understand your rights pays off in the long run.”

Follow these tips to stay safe when shopping on the web:

If the price is much lower than in rival stores a deal could be too good to be true.

Does the site list a company address or returns policy? If not, how will you contact them if an issue arises?

Does anything in the site’s terms and conditions seem off ? What are the cancellation limits? Are your rights affected?

Does the store accept credit/debit card payment? Does it only accept payments via money transfer services such as MoneyGram and/or Western Union? Where possible, use PayPal to pay online.

Is the website secure? Look out for the padlock sign in your web browser. DO NOT enter payment details into an unsecured site.

Avoid counterfeit goods by only buying items from genuine retailers.

Don’t forget you have a 14-day cooling off period for most goods and services in the UK and EU.

The best advice I can offer is to play it safe if you’re in any doubt. If you think you may have been scammed, or have any worries or queries, ring the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on

03454 040506 or see their website. Next week I will be bringing you my top ten Gifts for Christmas in my column. You can also check out my top

50 Christmas gifts on my website DebtBustingExpert.com.