Buying electrical goods online

As the cost-of-living crisis bits more, more start to head online to find the latest electrical deals and bargains. Research by ‘Electrical Safety First’ has found that almost 3 in 5 Brits are planning to shop on online marketplaces around this time of year.

We also found that 9 out of 10 people who said they were planning to buy electrical goods from an online marketplace also said that they are confident that they will be buying safely. However, we know how easy it can be to be tricked into thinking that the product you are buying is genuine and safe.

Our research has revealed that 1 in 3 admit that they would buy a fake electrical product for a saving of 30% or less. But, as counterfeit and substandard electrical products present a serious risk of fire or electric shock, these deals are definitely too good to be true.

We are urging consumers this year to be extra vigilant when shopping online for their electrical goods to avoid a disappointing and potentially dangerous situation.

Here are a few of our top tips for safe shopping online

When purchasing electrical products online, stick to the stores/websites of known manufacturers and retailers such as those found on the high street, rather than resorting to third party sellers.

Be wary of solely glowing reviews, especially if they aren’t verified. Some sites cross-reference user reviews with their buyer database and label those people as “verified purchasers”.

Make sure you check that everything looks in order with regards to spelling and design on packaging and instructions, and that all the components that are supposed to be there are in place. Spelling mistakes and incorrect logos are frequently found on the packaging of counterfeit electrical goods.

Look for websites that allow you to pay safely – these have a padlock symbol on your screen when you are filling in your payment details – but don’t assume safe payment definitely means your purchase is genuine. Also ensure there is a returns or complaints procedure should you be unsatisfied.