The Consumer Council of Fiji is urging people to exercise caution when shopping online after receiving 35 consumer complaints linked to four online platforms believed to be operated by the same individual.
The Council says the complaints involve Trend Fiji with 15 complaints, Entertainment Hub/Playhub with 16 complaints, Pacific Closet with 2 complaints and Pacifika Playhub with 2 complaints.
According to the Council, consumers reported responding to social media advertisements promoting a range of products and making full payment upfront.
However, they allege that the promised goods were never delivered.
The Council says consumers also claim their attempts to obtain updates or secure refunds were either ignored or met with repeated assurances that were never fulfilled.
Consumer Council of Fiji Chief Executive Officer Seema Shandil says the increasing number of complaints is concerning and should serve as a reminder for consumers to exercise caution when shopping online.
Shandil says while online shopping offers convenience and greater choice, consumers should not assume an online business is legitimate simply because it has an active social media presence.
The Council is advising consumers to verify sellers before making payments, check genuine customer reviews and ensure there are clear delivery arrangements and refund policies.
Shandil also urged consumers to be extra cautious when dealing with sellers who require full payment before dispatching goods, particularly where there is limited information about the business or no established track record.
