Euroconsumer
Buying abroad?
- Check contact details in case their is a problem.
- Are you really certain what you are buying?
- Check terms and conditions.
- Check the price for any extra costs, especially postage.
- Who has to pay if you need to return the goods?
- Payments via credit and debit cards can provide protection.
- Check you are on a secure site before giving credit or debit card details online.
- Keep a copy of receipts, documents and print a copy of your on-line order.
- If buying something at a distance you have cancellation rights, and time limits for delivery.
Just been told you've won a prize? Sound too good to be true?
Then it probably is!
- If you really have won something - you shouldn't have to pay anything!
- You should not have to buy something to qualify.
- Don't give your personal or bank details.
- Beware claims of guaranteed success, cheap loans and 'free gifts'.
- Beware of "quotes" from previous winners.
- Beware if you're told to "reply straight away or lose the prize".
- Use a spam filter to stop 'pop-up prizes' when online.
Just been offered a free holiday? Sound too good to be true?
Then it probably is!
- An invite to a presentation actually means hours of high pressure selling.
- Don't get into transport provided by a sales rep - insist on making your own arrangements to get there and back.
- Don't sign anything on the spot - take it away to read first.
- Beware of cash back schemes.
- 'Free' holidays nearly always involve additional costs and less flexibility.
- If you own a timeshare, beware resale companies and claims.
- If you are not sure, leave or say no.
- If you change your mind, act quickly!
You bought it abroad. Something went wrong.
Live in a European country and bought something from another country in Europe?
Something wrong with the goods or services you've received?
Then do something about it.
For further information on your rights as a consumer in the European Union look no further than ...
Beware of scams - if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is!
Last updated: January 29, 2007