Web surfers in Cardiff and South East are the most confident in Wales when it comes to buying online – that’s the conclusion from a survey carried out by Consumer Focus Wales.
Almost eight out of ten on-line shoppers in the region felt they knew their rights when it comes to internet shopping – compared to less than seven out of ten across the rest of Wales.
Consumer Focus Wales, who conducted the survey, has today issued a list of tips as the Christmas shopping season hits full swing.
Internet expert Sarah Richards said: “Our survey found that across Wales people prize the convenience, value and choice available in online shopping. But there is a wide variety in the levels of confidence people have in knowing their rights. In Cardiff and the South east nearly eight out of ten people say they know their rights. In parts of North Wales, the valleys and West South Wales that figure drops to six out of ten and below.
“Our advice to people thinking of doing their Christmas shopping online is:
- Shop around for the best prices;
- Use trusted websites
- Be aware of delivery dates
- Remember that you may have greater protection if you use a credit card
- Use secure websites to make payments, and look for the padlock logo
- Keep a record of what you’ve bought and when, in case you need to complain
Ms Richards added: “Internet shopping has become second nature for many consumers in Wales. Millions of transactions take place every year, and only a very small percentage go wrong, and in most cases the consumer is covered legally. However, if in doubt, you can always get in touch with Consumer Direct on 08454 040506 (Eng) or 08454 040505 (Cym) or visit their website www.consumerdirect.gov.uk for more specific advice.”
Tuesday 15th December is last recommended posting date for standard parcels. Last dates for post are Friday 18th for second class mail, and Monday 21st for first class. Special Deliveries can be sent as late as December 23rd.
Notes:
Research was commissioned by Consumer Focus Wales and conducted by Beaufort Research earlier this year.
Consumer Focus Wales’ latest report on internet access, Logged In or Locked Out, was released in November 2009 and can be seen by clicking here.
