Protecting yourself

There is help available to protect yourself from scams, unsafe products, and unfair treatment from businesses.

Product safety

The Australian Consumer Law contains a range of protections to help ensure that the products you buy are safe.

Protecting yourself from scams

Scams come in all shapes and sizes. Have you received an offer that seems too good to refuse, or a request to donate to a good cause? Perhaps an invitation to ‘befriend’ or connect with an online admirer? Scammers know how to press your buttons to get what they want.

Check a business is genuine

Consumers often ask us how they can check if the business or trader they are dealing with is legitimate or 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 and internet services

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