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Consumer rights when buying goods online or by mail order

Distance selling regulations

Online shopping and catalogue problems

Shopping online or with home shopping catalogues can be easier and cheaper than the high street but is an experience that can often leave you with a massive headache.

There are many disadvantages to buying goods at a distance; you may receive a different item to the one you ordered, or you may have made a mistake on the order form for example. And if something does go wrong it is difficult to know if and how you can return the items.

But just like purchasing goods in person, there are special regulations in place that protect you when buying goods over the internet, from a catalogue, by phone or by fax.

To find what your consumer rights are when buying goods online or by mail order then read on.

Your rights when shopping online or from a catalogue

Under the Distance Selling Regulations you have the right to cancel your internet or catalogue order anytime from the moment you place the order up to seven working days from the day you receive it.

If you order a service online, e.g. a mobile phone contract, then you have the right to cancel the order up to seven working days after you agree the contract with the seller.

Online shops must also clearly set out the stages you have to complete before placing an order. You must also be given the chance to double-check the order form before clicking "Confirm".

The retailer must also give full details of who they are and how they can be contacted by both post and by email.

Be wary of online retailers that do not follow these regulations.

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