Cascading discounts, promotions galore, prices slashed like rain… Enough of slogans, this Friday (and even the days before), it’s the famous Black Friday. The opportunity to do business or do your Christmas shopping in advance. But in the middle of this big physical and digital bazaar, watch out for scams. Because the more sales there are, the more the risks.
To help you “black Fridayize” without risk, customs and the General Directorate for Competition, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control (DGCCRF) provide several easy-to-apply tips. We summarize them for you.
Is the site reliable?
First of all, you must check the credibility of the site on which you plan to make a purchase. E-commerce platforms must display the following information: legal notices, identity of the seller, company name, contact details of the consumer mediator in the event of a dispute, etc. If you can’t find them, move on!
Is the payment secured ?
Your e-basket is full, it’s time to checkout. But is the payment secure? To find out, look at the URL: either the site address begins with https (with an “s” for “secure”), or there is a small padlock at the top left of the address bar. Keep an eye out.
What about customs fees?
In some cases, the price displayed does not include all costs. If the product is shipped from a country outside the EU, there may be additional costs which will be charged upon arrival of the package. They are called “customs fees”, although they often include the service provider’s administration fees for customs formalities and VAT. If you have any doubts, look at the general conditions of sale.
What if it was phishing?
More and more consumers are receiving false emails or SMS messages supposedly sent by customs services. Generally, it is the same body of text: you are asked to unblock a detained package, to pay a tax online, to collect luggage… Be careful! These are phishing attempts, scams which use the graphic codes of the administration. Their goal ? You take money.
Don’t respond, don’t click on anything. And remember this from the authorities: “Customs will never contact you by SMS, email or telephone to request payment of a customs duty or offer to release any goods or baggage against payment”
Do I pay attention to dark patterns?
Before any purchase, carefully check the terms of sale and the characteristics of the product. Run away if you come across “only 3 left in stock”, “valid only for 48 hours”, or “free trial offers”. These dark patterns aim to influence your choices and make you buy through a false sense of urgency.
Should I compare prices over time?
The equation is simple: a price reduction displayed must always refer to the lowest price charged by the professional during the previous 30 days.
How long do I have to change my mind?
The product received is not compliant? You have 14 days to withdraw, even online. Moreover, the existence or absence of the right of withdrawal must always be mentioned in the general conditions. However, there are exceptions, for example when you purchase a show ticket or a personalized product.