Citing examples of action undertaken throughout the year against Web sites breaching consumer protection laws, ACCC Chairman, Professor Allan Fels, warned the public against Web sites selling imported goods not meeting Australian standards and fraudulent Web sites passing themselves off as belonging to recognised brand names.
"Consumers need to carefully check the website they are using to ensure a successful on-line shopping experience. Businesses, on the other hand, need to engage in full disclosure if they are serious about attracting large sales volumes this Christmas period," Professor Fels said.
In order to protect themselves against unscrupulous traders, the ACCC suggests consumers take the following precautions:
1. Check the site carefully for the trader's full contact details including a street address.
2. Check delivery times, stock availability and if the company has a policy of substituting a product if the one ordered is unavailable.
3. Verify any seals/badges of approval or affiliation with codes of conduct.
4. Usually there is a link from the badge itself which should provide the necessary information to show that the trader is genuine.
5. Use sites that have secure on-line payment. This is usually shown by an unbroken lock or key at the bottom of the screen or as 'https//' in the webpage address and confirm receipt of payment by phone or email.
6. Check how the company will deal with personal information. In Australia there are privacy provisions which also apply to on-line traders.
7. Read all the terms and conditions carefully. Traders sometimes use these to limit liability.
8. Check for warranties, the trader's refund policies and any dispute resolution processes. In Australia traders are bound by the statutory warranty provisions in the Trade Practices Act.
9. Check that the product is legal in Australia. As on-line consumers cannot personally inspect goods or services it is important that on-line traders provide accurate information on their website.
