Online shoppers urged to avoid overspending in run-up to Christmas
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Consumers have been issued with advice on how to avoid overspending as the busiest online shopping period before Christmas gets under way.
Advice Direct Scotland is encouraging people to shop around, check for offers on free deliveries and pay on a credit card if possible.
The charity is running a Countdown to Christmas campaign across social media, with tips for consumers.
It says that by understanding how retailers market their products to consumers online, shoppers can avoid being drawn into hasty purchases and can make informed and cost-effective decisions.
Many shopping websites can change their layout and appearance for individual customers, offering recommendations based on previous items that have been bought or viewed.
Many retailers also pay for advertising through search engines – which means that adverts for their products appear higher in searches, and at the top of results when consumers look for related items or keywords associated with that product or brand.
But people should remember they have more rights online than in store, according to Advice Direct Scotland – including the right to return most goods purchased online within 14 days for a full refund.
It says there are a number of ways for consumers to ensure they get a bargain when shopping online:
- Shop around – there may be other websites that offer the same products for less. By checking prices with other retailers, you can save money. There are price comparison websites that can do this for you, but remember that these sites may be biased towards a specific brand or retailer.
- Check websites for price matching – many larger retailers may offer to match prices of smaller websites. Not only will you get a better deal on the item you are purchasing, but you will also have the additional peace of mind of purchasing from an established retailer.
- Purchase on a credit card – if you are purchasing more expensive items do this on a credit card if possible, as long as you can pay off your card in full. Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act offers additional protections on purchases over £100. This makes the card provider liable "joint and severally" for the purchase – meaning that if something goes wrong, you have an additional route of recourse.
- Check for offers on free delivery – sometimes by spending slightly more, you can save.
Anyone in Scotland who wants more advice on safe shopping online, or any consumer matter, can contact consumeradvice.scot free on 0808 164 6000. Advisers are available from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.
Advice Direct Scotland spokesman Colin Mathieson said: “This is expected to be a bumper online shopping week for retailers as Scots get ready for Christmas.
“There are many ways for consumers to ensure they get a bargain when shopping online over the festive period, which makes the experience even more worthwhile and avoids overspending.
“Don’t forget to shop around – there may be other websites that offer the same products for less.
"If possible, and if you are able to pay off your card balance, putting purchases for more expensive items on a credit card will also provide additional consumer protection.
“And it’s always worth remembering that you have more rights online than in store."
