Posted on Monday 25th November 2024
Cllr Victoria Wilson
With Black Friday and Cyber Monday coming up soon, Staffordshire County Council’s Trading Standards team has shared their top tips for a safe and enjoyable shopping experience.
Consumers are expected to spend an estimated £4 billion on tech, gadgets, electrical goods, clothing, and toiletries over the weekend. Black Friday is 29 November and Cyber Monday is 2 December.
Here are five tips from officers to help people shop safely while snagging great deals:
- Research: Always do your homework before making a purchase. Check current prices against discounted prices to make sure it’s a true deal.
- Use comparison websites: These can help you find the best deals and avoid overpaying.
- Watch out for fake websites and scams: Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true.
- Use debit or credit cards: These payment methods offer better protection against fraud.
- Keep your receipts and register your products: This can help with returns and warranties.
“Most purchases are trouble-free, and you can definitely pick up some bargains on Black Friday," says Victoria Wilson, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Trading Standards at Staffordshire County Council. “But it pays to be vigilant, do your research, and know your legal rights.”
Victoria added:
“It’s become a really popular shopping weekend, but unfortunately criminals have also caught on to this. Be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true – retailers rarely discount heavily on best-selling products.
“Watch out also for counterfeit goods and if buying online from websites you’ve never shopped from before, check they are legitimate. All online retailers should have ownership and address details included. These are required by law and are often missing from overseas websites masquerading as UK-based.
“Check also that they allow returns. Most goods sold online come with a 14-day cooling-off period that allows a full refund if you change your mind about a purchase. Avoid websites that don’t mention this.
“Following our tips should help people to shop safely and confidently.”
The Consumer Rights Act also clarifies consumer law and includes rights that allow people to obtain a full refund on faulty goods within 30 days of purchase, challenge unfair terms and conditions, and demand that poor services be corrected.
For further advice on consumer rights, call Citizens Advice free on 0808 223 1133 or search for them online.