'Tis the season to shop, but Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Trading Standards team is urging its residents to be SMART when they are shopping this Christmas.
Everyone loves a bargain and it’s easy to click before you think, especially when you feel your running out of time – and that’s what many less scrupulous companies depend on. The Council’s Trading Standards team are asking residents to remember the age old saying ‘If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is’ before they complete any purchases.
Nearly 43M adults encountered online scams in 2023, with 1 in 5 being left over £1000 out of pocket! That’s a cost nobody can afford to lose, especially with the big red man’s visit being so close!
Be SMART when shopping this Christmas!
Safety first! – While it’s great to find a bargain, cheap electrical goods can end up costing you far more in the long run! At best, you’ll end up with a product that breaks soon after purchasing and, at worst, you increase the risk of household fires and other electrical hazards! Only buy genuine products from reputable retailers and always look for the CE/UKCA mark to ensure it has been safety tested. It’s also a good idea to keep your receipts and original packaging in case of any product recalls.
Misleading Ads- Always compare prices and shop around to ensure the deal you’re getting is a genuine! Avoid too-good-to-be-true discounts on big brand items like clothes, perfume and cosmetics as you’re likely to receive a fake product that is poor quality or filled with nasty chemicals!
Allergies – Christmas is a great time to indulge in Christmas treats but this can be tricky for people living with food allergies and intolerances. If you’re attending food and makers markets, always check allergen information with the business and check if they can cater for allergies. If they’re unsure and can’t guarantee cross-contamination, don’t risk it!
Returns & Refunds – Always check the store’s returns and refund policy before making an online purchase! Even if the company has a UK address, check the return address listed as you may find this is outside the UK! If in doubt about your rights, check out the consumer guidance on the Citizens Advice website: Consumer - Citizens Advice
Think before you click! – While browsing social media, take time to consider whether that amazing offer or competition prize is genuine! Scammers often spoof legitimate websites or brands so it’s always best to visit websites directly instead of via links on a social media.
Councillor Bob Harris, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Communities, said:
“We all need to be extra vigilant and keep one step ahead of these scammers. Always remember that criminals come in all shapes and sizes, can be very convincing and can contact you at the door, by phone, post or online.
“Don’t assume everyone is genuine and don’t be rushed into making any quick decisions, even if you’ve left you’re shopping last minute. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Only criminals will try and rush or panic you into making a decision.
“Never ever provide bank details by email or over the phone unless you are absolutely certain who you are giving them to and never click on a link from an unknown email source as this can give the crooks access to your computer and personal details.”
For further advice contact Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133 or email tradingstandards@rctcbc.gov.uk
For further information, please visit www.rctcbc.gov.uk/TradingStandards
Posted on 16/12/2024