The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) reminded consumers to be wary of bogus sellers and to be careful when making online transactions.
"Once again, the department reminds consumers to be extra careful in getting into online purchases than be sorry after and realize that they were deceived or short-changed," DTI-Consumer Protection Group (CPG) Undersecretary Atty. Victorio Mario A. Dimagiba said.
Nielsen Global Survey of E-Commerce stated in its recent release that the number of Filipinos purchasing online are increasing. Filipinos who are showing interest to online purchases are at the same number as Singaporeans and Vietnamese.
However, there is also an increase in the number of complaints. The DTI said that it has received a total of 612 complaints from consumers since January 2013. The DTI has already resolved 378 or 62%, while 174 or 28% were dismissed.
On the other hand, he department also reminds online merchants to register business names with DTI or SEC, and to properly operate as an enterprise.
Dimagba reminded online merchants that they are considered the same as other businesses not on a similar platform.
"It just so happens that online merchants are doing business through the internet, which is another platform in conducting business today," he said.
12 tips
To make sure online purchases are being done properly, DTI listed the following tips for consumers:
1. Use your own computer/laptop to do your shopping to ensure that nobody else has access to your personal data and accounts.
2. Install and update your computer's anti-virus/anti-malware program for optimum protection against internet security threats and hackers.
3. Use a password that cannot be easily guessed. Mix alphanumeric and special characters in creating your password.
4. Check for the contact information of the website and validate them to know that they exist and if they can address your queries and/or complaints.
5. In searching for bargains in online classified websites, make sure that you transact with legitimate and trusted sellers. Read customer feedbacks and testimonials.
6. In making online payments, transact with a website that uses an SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) encryption. If a website has SSL installed, the URL starts with "https" instead of just "http".
7. Read the privacy policy statement. Learn how online shops handle and secure the information that you will be providing them.
8. Do not give too much information. Provide only what is required and leave the rest blank.
9. Do not be deceived by huge discounts. Contact the website or the merchant to validate the offer. If the deal seems unrealistic, it is more likely a scam.
10. Look for the DTI Sales Promo Permit Number especially in online shopping websites that offer promos like that of group buying sites.
11. Read and understand the terms and conditions and payment methods.
12. Log-out your account after every transaction.
source: www.abs-cbnnews.com
