As Mother’s Day quickly approaches, NSW Fair Trading has issued a warning against potential shopping scams and urging consumer diligence. Whether it be flowers, chocolates, or other gifts, consumers must take responsibility for what they buy and where from. 

While Mother’s Day usually calls for showering mothers with gifts, it also brings about an increased risk of falling victim to fraudulent schemes. 

NSW Fair Trading Commissioner, Natasha Mann, emphasises the importance of informed consumer decisions in light of the increasing cost of living pressure. “A little bit of research could go a long way to avoiding a Mother’s Day headache,” says Mann, adding the need to scrutinise terms and conditions, refund policies, and expiry dates before making any transactions. 

Mother’s Day serves as an opportune moment to cultivate new online and in-person shopping practices, ensuring protection against unnecessary spending or data breaches. The mantra remains the same: Avoid impulsive purchases, stick to budgets, and verify the credibility of websites.

Shoppers across the region are advised to compare prices diligently, check business reviews for credibility, and exercise caution when opting for gift cards. Last year, there were 376 complaints lodged surrounding gift card purchases. 

For further guidance on consumer rights and savvy shopping tips, you can visit NSW Fair Trading: www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/. In the midst of celebrating mothers across the nation, consumers must stay vigilant when shopping both online and in store.