This Sunday 8th May 2011 is Mother’s Day and whilst we encourage you to buy your mum some of the wonderful presents available on the eBay website, we also want you to stay safe whilst shopping!

Below are some tips on how to shop safely both off and online.

• Shop around - Check out other traders’ prices and check out the trader – eBay’s seller ratings are there to help you assess who you feel comfortable buying from

• Protect your details. Only give your details to someone you trust.

• Use secure, online payment systems such as PayPal or Pay Mate

• Research before you buy - Familiarise yourself with the product or service including aspects such as reputation, make, model, dimensions, condition, age, customer service and support. Ask the trader any questions you have. Keep a copy of the advertisement, order, receipt and all correspondence.

• Know the trader’s contact details. Sometimes sales do go wrong, it is important to be able to contact the trader – you will be able to do this on eBay through the email you get providing you their eBay contact details

• Understand the costs involved. Make sure you know the TOTAL sale cost including shipping, postage and any insurance costs. Ask yourself are you still getting value for money?

• Read the fine print. Know the terms and conditions including any refund, privacy or security policies in place. Do you know if there is an extended warranty, what payment options you have, or how and when the product will be delivered?

• Be extra-vigilant when buying from overseas. If something does go wrong, your consumer rights may be different if you have bought from an overseas seller rather than an Australian seller.

• Check compliance marks when buying electrical items - Look out for a regulatory compliance mark (the tick in a triangle) or Australian approval number on the nameplate (Australian approval numbers start with the first letter of the state followed by a number eg. N12345); check that the item works on normal operating voltage (240 volts); and ensure they come with warranty cards or instructions.

For further information about your consumer rights, visit the ACCC website www.accc.gov.au or contact the ACCC Infocentre on 1300 302 502.