As more people try to avoid the Christmas shopping crowds, shopping via the Internet is becoming increasingly popular. However, Buckinghamshire Trading Standards makes the following suggestions when bargain hunting on the web:

• shop around for the best deals and prices
• be careful when giving your credit or debit card details. Look for a closed padlock sign at the bottom of the screen which indicates the website is “secure”.
• keep a record of the internet trader's phone number and postal address and print out the order and any information from the trader.
• if you use your credit card to buy online and the goods fail to arrive or are faulty the card company should refund you for any single item costing over £100.
• your high street consumer rights apply, goods must be of satisfactory quality, adverts and descriptions must not be misleading.
• items must be delivered within 30 days unless otherwise agreed.

Don't assume an Internet company is based in the UK just because its web address hasUK in it so:
• if you do buy from abroad and there is a problem then your contract will be in the country where the trader is and it may be very difficult to get your complaint dealt with or to take legal action.

Bucks CC community services portfolio holder, Councillor Margaret Dewar says, “Trading Standards protect and educate consumers and businesses. Most businesses comply with the law when trading on the Internet, but consumers should always be cautious when shopping whether or not it’s on the web or in the high street.”

Andrew Leech, 01753 884216