But even though you avoid the long queues and Christmas bustle in the streets, it can still be hard to decide which online shops to trust and which to avoid.
Howard the owl can help – he’s European Consumer Centre Denmark’s interactive shopping assistant. He has recently gained his own new universe at http://dk.theshoppingassistant.com, so it’s now easier for consumers to navigate around any unprofessional online shops.
“We have given Howard a makeover, so it’s now even easier to tell the rotten apples from the reliable web traders,” says Peter Fogh Knudsen, director of European Consumer Centre (ECC). He highlights three improved functions that can be extra useful when shopping online.
Search and get the big picture
At http://dk.theshoppingassistant.com, where Howard lives, you can type in the online shop’s web address, and Howard will give you a range of useful information including how old the website is, how other shoppers have rated it, and whether the online shop is covered by any trustmark schemes.
List of European trustmarks
What is the Polish counterpart to the Danish trustmark? And what quality assurance mark should you look for when shopping online with French web traders? Howard has a list of countries and the existing European trustmark schemes. If the online shop is part of a trustmark scheme, this is often seen as confirmation that the seller has considered and is interested in protecting your rights.
Price comparisons
Howard also has a list of price comparison sites in a range of EU countries. As a consumer, this enables you to find a certain product at the cheapest price. Perhaps the product is cheaper in Germany or Sweden? Howard has the answer.
“Naturally, Howard can’t guarantee that consumers get a bargain. But if you just take two minutes to check an online shop with Howard before making a purchase, you are well on your way towards enjoying a stress-free Christmas shopping experience,” says Peter Fogh Knudsen.
Three good tips when buying presents online
- Always pay by credit card so the bank can refund the amount if the product is not delivered. Never pay by bank transfer.
- Check if the website is professional and reliable e.g. via Howard.
- Read your rights concerning returning and exchanging goods, as these vary from country to country, and can be extended in connection with Christmas. Check the delivery deadline to ensure the gift will arrive before Christmas Eve.
Facts about Howard
- Howard is a handy little interactive shopping assistant who can help you become a better net shopper by helping you distinguish professional and reliable internet shops from unprofessional or dodgy ones. You can find him at http://dk.theshoppingassistant.com.
- Howard was originally developed by European Consumer Centre Denmark, but is now available in 11 different languages.