Consumer

Urban Fraud Myth:‬ Intellectual Property Fraud

Urban Fraud Myth Intellectual Property#‎UrbanFraudMyths‬

Myth

Downloading digital content illegally is harmless

Reality

This type of crime is far from victimless and has serious repercussions.
Doing so can result in money being used to fund the activities of serious organised crime groups and also has an impact on creative industries and the UK economy.

Legitimate and high quality downloads are easy to find. Use Content Map to access legal content online

Urban Fraud Myths:‬ Public wi-fi

Urban Fraud Myths: Public wi-fiMyth:

Public wi-fi is secure and provides a safe forum in which I can do my banking, shopping etc.

Reality:

Any data sent through public wi-fi can be intercepted unless you have taken steps to encrypt your data.
If you use a mobile device over public wi-fi, you are risking the security of your personal information, digital identity and your money. Risks are even greater if your computer or device are not secured by an effective security system.

www.actionfraud.police.uk/how-fraudsters-can-target-you-on-public-networks

Urban Fraud Myth: Pin Safety

Urban Myth: Pin SafetyMyth:

Bank staff might ask for your PIN or on-line banking password to check who you are when they call you.

Reality

Bank staff will never ask you for your 4 digit card PIN number or on-line banking password when speaking with you over the phone.

They would never ask you to tap them into the telephone key pad either.

Related links

www.financialfraudaction.org.uk/joint-declaration-phone-scams.asp

www.financialfraudaction.org.uk/Consumer-Card-Fraud-Telephone-Scam.asp

Take time: check your rights.

Know your new rightsIt’s worth researching the market and what your new consumer rights mean before you buy, particularly if you are shopping for expensive items. If you know your rights, you can spot traders who do not seem to be compliant and so avoid potential problems from the start.

Use Citizens Advice consumer service

The consumer service can advise on consumer problems or give pre-shopping advice to reduce risk.

Phone 03454 040506 Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm, except Bank Holidays.
You can also email queries through the website citizensadvice.org.uk

If you do have a problem you can visit:

Ashford Borough Citizens Advice Bureau (more…)

Consultation: Switching suppliers – making it easy for consumers

switchingprovidersThis call for evidence asks consumers to share their experiences on switching suppliers and how the process could be improved. We welcome any views and experiences of switching suppliers for:

  • energy
  • telecommunications
  • banking (current accounts)

The call for evidence proposes 6 principles which suppliers should follow to make switching easier for consumers. (more…)

Clearer return rights for 30 days!

Know your new rightsThe short term “right to reject” enables you to return goods to a trader, within a 30 day period, for a full refund if your core rights have been breached. The burden of proof will be on you to show that the goods are not satisfactory, fit for purpose or as described.

Know your cancellation rights.

Consumer law states that cancellation terms must be fair, transparent and prominent. However, your cancellation rights vary depending on where and when the contract was made and what it is for. Take time to find out about cancellation rights for the item or service you are buying.

Citizens’ Advice: Know your new rights

Check the terms and conditions

Know your new rightsThe Consumer Rights Act states that terms and conditions must be prominent, so important terms hidden in the small print may not be compliant with the law.

Essential information must be provided.

Traders, service providers, letting agents and secondary ticket sellers are covered by the new Consumer Rights Act. They must provide you with prominent, clear and honest information before you buy from, or enter into a contract, with them.

#consumerrights

Citizens’ Advice: Know your New Rights

National Consumer Week

Know your new rightsThree core requirements

The Consumer Rights Act 2015 requires that goods and services must be:

  • as described
  • of satisfactory quality and
  • fit for purpose.

Digital Content

Digital content, such as online film and games, music downloads or e-books, is also covered. You have a right to a repair or replacement of faulty digital content

It is important to check before you buy that digital content meets your requirements and is compatible with your hardware and software.

#consumerrights

Citizens’ Advice: Know your New Rights