Check It Out
Download our Google Chrome extension 'Check It Out' to help stay safe when shopping on Amazon and eBay.
Read the original version of this post on Electrical Safety First's website, here.
As Black Friday and Christmas looms closer, many people are starting to head online to find the latest electrical deals and bargains. More than ever, people are having to rely on going digital to buy their Christmas presents this year due to COVID and the many lockdowns around the country. Our research has found that almost 3 in 5 Brits are planning to shop on online marketplaces this Christmas!
We also found that 9 out of 10 people who said they were planning to buy electrical gifts 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 presents to avoid a disappointing and potentially dangerous Christmas.
Here are a few of our top tips for safe shopping online:
In the UK, online marketplaces such as Amazon, eBay and Wish are not bound to the same laws as traditional retailers. This means that fake and other dangerous electrical products are being sold to unknowing customers.
Containing sub-standard or counterfeit parts, they present a serious risk of fire or electric shock. Sign our petition and demand action against the unlawful sale of dangerous electricals.
When you're browsing an online marketplace, it isn't always obvious that you are not buying directly from the manufacturer or a well-known retailer. To make it easier, we have launched a Browser Extension, available on Chrome, Firefox, MS Edge and Safari, that will highlight third party sellers and help you to stay safe when shopping online.
Test it for yourself here:
Download our Google Chrome extension 'Check It Out' to help stay safe when shopping on Amazon and eBay.
For more information and guidance on safe shopping online, visit https://www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk/guidance/safe-shopping-and-counterfeit-products/
ECAtoday is the official online magazine of ECA and reaches thousands of people within the electrotechnical and engineering services industry.