Online shopping: know your rights

Alphabet A Almost half the UK adult population shops over the internet and spends more than £20 billion a year doing so. But many of us do not know our rights
Online shoppingOnline shopping

The Office of Fair Trading points out that people shopping online have greater rights than if they shopped on the high street, as anything bought online can be returned within seven days for a full refund.

In a shop you have to show that something was wrong with what you bought. Online you can just change your mind, as long as you do it within a week.

You also have the right to know exactly who or what company you are dealing with. The OFT found that many retailers were unaware that online customers could cancel a deal.

Many other online retailers who did know the law did not make these rights clear on their websites or provide an easy email or telephone contact to enable customers to complain.

* For more information see the Office of Fair Trading website at www.oft.gov.uk or Trading Standards Central at www.tradingstandards.gov.uk

Related

  • PC World map

    Broadband - get up to speed

    Broadband internet providers are two a penny - but some are better than others. Jonathan Margolis tells you how to find the best for you

    Read on

  • Internet security

    Tips for protecting your computer

    It's crucial to stay safe while you are online and make sure your computer is in tip-top condition to protect you, with the latest anti-virus software and other safeguards. Here are some essential terms explained, plus tips to make life easier:

    Read on

  • Internet

    Staying safe online - what you need to know about malware

    The threat from malicious software is real and everyone needs to protect their computer

    Read on

Online shopping: know your rights

Almost half the UK adult population shops over the internet and spends more than £20 billion a year doing so. But many of us do not know our rights