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Buy-Safe-Online Code of Practice for Online Retailers

Conforms Stage One of OFT's Consumer Codes Scheme

The Buy-Safe-Online Consumer Code of Practice has successfully completed the first stage of the OFT's Consumer Codes Approval Scheme. Now Buy-Safe-Online must demonstrate that the code is working in practice and delivering on its promises by monitoring its members compliance with the code and experiences of consumers in dealing with Buy-Safe-Online-accredited websites.

Buy-Safe-Online validates websites as:

Effective contact points for post, email and phone + Clear and accurate pricing and delivery charges shown before the consumer commits to Buy
Cancellation options spelt out in Easy Readable Terms + Security of credit card and personal data handling
Procedures in handling any consumer complaints

By completing Stage One, Buy-Safe-Online has satisfied the OFT that its Consumer Code of Practice promotes and safeguards consumer interests beyond the minimum requirements of consumer law. The requirements are:

A 14 day cooling off period - this exceeds the seven day period currently required by law
An obligation to provide updated delivery information, as well as having effective procedures for keeping customers informed when delays occur
Independent disciplinary procedures with a range of sanctions - including warnings and ultimately membership termination - to deal with non-compliant members
An independent redress scheme (arbitration)
'Mystery shopping' to test code appliance

Buy-Safe-Online has now been invited to provide the OFT with evidence that its code is working in practice and delivering on its promises. Only Online Companies that can demonstrate that they are effective in promoting the interests of the consumer will be approved and entitled to display the Buy-Safe-Online Approved code logo and official promotion.