Southern Directory - Seniors Card - NSW Government

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Shopping
Online shopping
Consumer information from NSW Fair Trading
The internet can be a very convenient way to shop. Knowing a few simple tips and
precautions can keep you safe while shopping online.
Online shopping safety tips
Before buying anything online you should:
• be wary of offers that appear ‘too good
to be true’ because they usually are
• verify the phone number and address
details of the seller
• not deal with sellers who are evasive or
only have a mobile phone number and
won’t give a contact name or address
• never respond to unsolicited offers or
spam that you receive by email
• check any ‘feedback’ about the seller, to
assess the seller’s reputation and reliability
• check the freight or delivery methods and
costs and any handling charges
• check refund, warranty and return policies
• never give your personal bank details
or password
• check if the site is secure before paying
by credit card
• pay by credit card because it can provide
extra protection when shopping online
• be very cautious of unknown sellers
who ask you to pay by bank transfer or
through a money transfer service before
you receive the goods
• print a copy of your order before
you send it.
Thinking of buying from
an overseas website?
If you buy from an overseas seller Australian
consumer law may not apply and may only
offer you limited protection. You should also:
• check currency exchange rates
• check with Australian Customs if it is
legal to import the goods
• remember to include any import duties,
taxes, handling, freight and insurance
costs when making a price comparison.
Further information
Visit the Fair Trading website
www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au
for more consumer information
about online shopping.
Follow Fair Trading’s tips to keep safe when shopping online.