From queries about delivery to cookies, we address some of the main concerns about shopping on the Internet
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How long will I have to wait for my goods to be delivered?
Most e-tailers deliver goods very promptly, and many online stores have developed
helpful ways of keeping you informed about your purchase. For instance, large
retailers often e-mail you with the latest news about your purchase, telling
you if it's been dispatched or if it's temporarily out of stock. Some sites
order difficult-to-find items for you and e-mail you when they come into
stock.
What do I do if the goods are incorrect or faulty?
All reputable sites have a customer help service that can be contacted should
any problems arise - in fact, beeb.com insists that all its retail partners
have one.Your statutory legal rights are exactly the same when buying over
the Internet as they are elsewhere. And if you need to e-mail beeb.com with
a request or complaint, you'll get a personal response the next working day.
When I'm shopping on the Internet, my web browser often asks me if I will
accept "cookies" from the websites. What are they?
If a site offers you a cookie, it's usually a good idea to accept it .Cookies
stay in your web browser and contain relevant information about you. So when
you go back to a site to buy again. you won't have to re-enter all your details.
It's a system for offering you a more personalised service.
How can online shops afford to sell the same goods cheaper than on the
high street? Is there any difference in quality?
Because online traders have no high street shops - "bricks and mortar" as
they are known in e-commerce - they have lower overheads, and can pass the
savings on to the customer .The goods are exactly the same as you would buy
from a traditional retail outlet.
Is it legal to buy items from overseas, such as CDs from America, which
are considerably cheaper than in Britain?
Yes, it is legal - and it is always worth looking internationally to find
the best bargain on the Internet. Before purchasing, however, make sure the
stated price includes shipping and any import taxes, and find out how long
it is likely to take for the goods to reach Britain.
How do I know that details I pass on to a website will not be disclosed
to any third party?
Reputable sites usually offer the chance to request that personal data
is not passed on for commercial purposes, often by "ticking" a box when ordering.
As part of its guarantee, beeb.com promises never to sell, rent or trade
personal information to a third party without your express permission -
protecting you from junk e-mail.
