Consumers Warned of Risks When Using ‘Trusted Trader’ Sites
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has issued advice for consumers using ‘trusted trader’ sites, cautioning that what is promised is not always what is delivered. Trader recommendation sites are platforms that enable individuals to find and contact various tradespeople like builders, plumbers, and heating specialists. These sites typically claim to have vetted or evaluated the quality of work of the traders they feature.
The CMA highlighted that consumers should not solely rely on terms such as ‘trusted’, ‘reliable’, or ‘expert’ to assess the credibility of traders. Instead, they should opt for sites that verify traders by confirming they possess the required licenses, insurances, and certifications. The CMA stressed that these sites should have effective complaints procedures, assist in resolving disputes, monitor traders’ conduct, penalise unethical behaviour, and eliminate rogue traders.
Furthermore, reviews on these platforms should be clearly labelled as coming from verified customers. Consumers are advised to compare different traders before making a decision, considering factors like experience, qualifications, certifications, and verified customer feedback. Hayley Fletcher, the interim senior director of consumer protection at the CMA, emphasised the importance of equipping consumers with practical tips to help them identify legitimate and reliable traders.
The CMA also issued guidance for trader recommendation sites, outlining the necessity for transparent practices in line with consumer law requirements. By adhering to these guidelines, it not only safeguards consumers but also ensures fair competition among the multitude of honest professionals who rely on these sites to connect with clients. The regulator expects all trader recommendation platforms to carefully review their operations and make necessary adjustments.
Mike Andrews, the national coordinator for the National Trading Standards eCrime Team, hailed the collaboration with the CMA and partners to establish this guidance. He underscored the significance of trader recommendation sites diligently vetting and verifying traders while treating consumer complaints seriously. This initiative aims to instil greater confidence in consumers when choosing tradespeople and prevent genuine traders from losing opportunities to unscrupulous counterparts.
In conclusion, the advice provided by the CMA serves as a valuable tool for consumers navigating ‘trusted trader’ platforms. By raising awareness about the potential risks and setting clear expectations for these sites, it fosters a marketplace where trust and reliability are fundamental principles. Moving forward, the onus is on trader recommendation sites to uphold their obligations towards consumers or face the prospect of regulatory scrutiny. Ultimately, this concerted effort strives to elevate industry standards and enhance consumer protection in the realm of online trade recommendations.