Shop wisely this Black Friday to make sure Christmas doesn’t blow up in your face

Trading Standards officers in North East Lincolnshire are urging shoppers, particularly with online purchases, to be aware of bargains that could be too good to be true.

Fake goods can at first sight be hard to determine, and as people struggle to pay bills and shop around to save money it can be easy to succumb to offers. Trading Standards officers say there are a number of precautions shoppers can take to reduce the risk of buying a fake product online.

• Check that the profile of the seller and website are official.

• Check reviews of the website on consumer sites.

• Spelling and grammar mistakes can indicate fakes.

• Check location, as counterfeit sellers often ship from abroad.

• If the price is too good to be true, it probably is.

If you are shopping in person then be mindful of the following:

• Buying from a reputable supplier and checking the barcode on the packaging using the scanner on your mobile phone.

• To check if an item is genuine, you can look at the packaging. Legitimate goods will usually be protectively marked and feature the safety mark, either UKCA or CE.

• Always ask for a receipt, and check that the seller accepts returns within a certain timeframe.

Cllr Ron Shepherd, Portfolio Holder for Safer and Stronger Communities, said:

 “As we approach the Christmas period, and especially with Black Friday, it’s easy to have your head turned by what appears to be a bargain, but people should avoid buying fake goods, including on social media sites.

“By purchasing fake goods, people are giving money to criminals, stealing from the original rights holders, and potentially putting the lives of loved ones at risk.

“Follow the guidelines above for online purchase . It can be easy to succumb to great deals. If you are buying in person you can check if an item is genuine by looking at the packaging. Legitimate goods will usually be protectively marked and feature the safety mark. Always ask for a receipt, and check that the seller accepts returns within a certain timeframe.

“Trading Standards see an influx of counterfeit products every year around the Christmas period. Whilst cheap toys, shirts, mugs and slippers might seem harmless and look good, they are likely to be made from unsafe materials which may break apart easily, pose choking hazards for small children or cause skin irritation.

“Cheap electrical devices and anything requiring a USB connection can pose a serious threat. E-bikes, e-scooters and electric hoverboards are all popular but there have been issues with cheap imports that do not comply to safety standards, with examples of them combusting whilst left on charge.

“We just want people to buy as safely and wisely as possible this Christmas and follow the guidelines if they are in any doubt.”

If you suspect the authenticity of branded items being sold, you can report it to Trading Standards through Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133 or visit www.citizensadvice.org.uk