Internet and auction sites
Auction sites are websites offering public sales. Internauts can outbid each other in order to acquire a product until the auction period ends.
Caution is the watchword on auction sites. According to US data, more than 40% of complaints concerning Internet purchases, involve e-auction transactions.
- Make sure you read buyers' feedback on the seller and problems experienced in the past.
- Make sure that the seller's coordinates are accurate and that product characteristics are reasonable and verifiable.
- Don't hesitate to contact the seller or ask for additional information if the transaction involves a large amount of money.
- To determine the seller's reputation, most sites announce evaluations by other buyers in their Feedback section. Before bidding, ask questions, i.e. what is the merchandise return policy. A good seller is always ready to answer questions.
- Research is important. Consumers must compare product descriptions, models and retail costs. Note: If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. For collector's items, you'll need to take measures to ensure that they are authentic.
- Payment method: If the seller accepts only cheques or money orders, consumers cannot take the risk of paying before receiving the merchandise. When possible, it is preferable to use a credit card to pay for your purchases since this method offers the best protection in case of problems. Use of a certified payment service, which is the only one of have access to financial information, could allow you to get your money back in case of misrepresentation.
- It is essential to read the fine print, including the restrictive clauses. Are shipping costs included in the price? How will the merchandise be sent? Should you buy additional insurance? When a product comes from another country do you need to pay customs fees?
- Avoid spam (unsolicited commercial offers) by being very careful about giving out your e-mail address online or off line. Know the merchant's policy regarding transferring or selling e-mail addresses to third parties.