Protecting yourself

  • Products sold to consumers must be safe. Businesses have responsibilities to protect consumers, including recalling unsafe products.
  • Consumers should watch out for scams, as anyone can be a victim. A scam is a way of tricking people into handing over money or personal details.
  • Not all businesses are legitimate or trustworthy. Check if a business is real and read reviews.
  • When a business goes bust, consumers may not have the same protections.

Internet banking

Online banking can be a fast and convenient way to carry out financial transactions. It is important to protect yourself online, including your personal and financial details, against scammers.

Product safety

Products sold to consumers must be safe. There are mandatory standards for some products. Unsafe products can be banned or recalled.

Scams

A scam is a way of tricking people into handing over money or personal details. There are things you can do if you're a victim of a scam and to protect yourself.

Checking a business is genuine

Consumers can check a business’s registration, permits, licenses and memberships to see if it’s genuine.

When a business goes bust

When a consumer is owed money by an insolvent business, they can check if the business will honour the transaction, register as a creditor, or ask their bank or credit card provider for a chargeback. They may also be able to seek compensation.

Unauthorised transfer of phone or internet services

Unauthorised transfers occur when consumers are switched from one service provider to another without their agreement.