The Trading Standards Service urges consumers to shop smart this Black Friday and Cyber Monday
Date published:
With the deals already in full swing, the Trading Standards Service (TSS) is reminding consumers to stay alert, shop smart and think carefully before parting with their money during this period of promotional deals.
Damien Doherty, Chief Inspector, Trading Standards Service, said: “While many retailers offer genuine discounts at this time of year, Black Friday can also be used to push misleading offers, counterfeit goods, fake reviews and pressure-sales tactics. TSS is encouraging shoppers to take a moment to assess whether the deal in front of them is truly as good as it appears.”
Shoppers are advised to keep the following tips in mind:
- Research before you buy - Compare prices across multiple retailers to check whether the “deal” really represents a saving. Some retailers may artificially inflate prices ahead of a sale period or highlight discounts that are not as significant as they appear. AI tools can help check prices across a number of retailers and even pricing histories but always be careful as there are limitations.
- Know your rights - When buying from a UK-based retailer, consumers are protected under the Consumer Rights Act 2015. Goods must be as described, of satisfactory quality, and fit for purpose. If it’s faulty, get a refund within 30 days.
- After 30 days, the seller must offer a repair or replacement and if that doesn’t work, you can still request a refund. If shopping online, consumers usually have a 14-day cooling-off period to cancel most purchases – but this does not apply to all items, such as perishable goods or personalised products. Always remember that consumer rights just because an item was on sale.
- Beware of counterfeit goods - Fake electricals, toys, cosmetics, and branded products are increasingly common on online marketplaces and social media platforms. These items may not meet UK safety standards and can pose serious risks.
- Watch out for scams - Fraudulent websites and fake adverts on social media often appear during busy shopping periods. Look for secure payment methods, check seller reviews, and avoid deals that seem “too good to be true”.
- Check delivery and returns information - Review terms and conditions before buying, especially when purchasing from third-party sellers or overseas retailers where UK consumer protections may not apply.
- Always protect yourself by paying with your credit card to get section 75 cover and use your debit card for chargeback protection.
Notes to editors:
1.Consumers who believe they have been misled, scammed or sold fake goods should contact Consumerline on 0300 123 6262 or visit the Consumerline website for advice.
2. For media enquiries contact the Department for the Economy Press Office at pressoffice@economy-ni.gov.uk
3. The Executive Information Service operates an out of hours service for media enquiries only between 1800hrs and 0800hrs Monday to Friday and at weekends and public holidays. The duty press officer can be contacted on 028 9037 8110.
4. To keep up to date with news from the Department you can follow us on the following social media channels:
- X – @Economy_NI
- Facebook – @DeptEconomyNI
- Instagram – economy_ni
- LinkedIn – Department for the Economy NI