EXPECTATION VS. REALITY : CONSUMERS WARNED AGAINST DECEPTIVE ONLINE SALES PRACTICES

Expectation vs. Reality’: Consumers warned against deceptive online sales practices

In today’s digital age, not everything we see online is true. This is why ‘CIA with BA’ reminded viewers to be smart shoppers and know their rights to avoid being scammed.

Ricca from the Mariteam shared her experience of ordering a fleece blanket online, only to be disappointed when it arrived.

“Naghihimulmol siya. So nag-file ako ng report [pero] walang response sa ‘kin ‘yung seller. [Ngayon], naka-pending ‘yung transaction ko ng refund,” she said.

Manilyn had a similar experience when she ordered a burger online. According to her, the picture showed a burger packed with ingredients, but when it was delivered, it was far from what she expected.

Senator Alan Peter Cayetano and the show’s legal experts explained that their cases fall under the Consumer Act of the Philippines.

“Ito ‘yung batas na nagpoprotekta sa mga mamimili, whether online or sa mga palengke or supermarket. ‘Yan ang pinaka-major na batas natin para dyan,” said Atty. Mark Devoma.

According to Atty. Devoma, these incidents are examples of deceptive sales practices.

“Prohibited syempre na linlangin mo, in-advertise mo, in-embellish mo too much to the point na medyo nade-defraud na ‘yung mga umorder non, so deceptive na ‘yon,” he explained.

To protect themselves from such fraudulent transactions, consumers are advised to:

1. Ensure the seller’s legitimacy – Check ratings, reviews, and feedback from other customers before purchasing.
2. Read product details and seller policies carefully – Review product descriptions, return/refund policies, and seller terms.
3. Use secure payment methods – Opt for payment platforms that offer buyer protection.
4. Document the transaction – Take screenshots of the product listing, order confirmation, and any conversation with the seller as evidence.
5. Report fraudulent transactions – If the seller is unresponsive, consumers may escalate their complaints to the e-commerce platform or the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) through its Consumer Protection Division.

The program emphasized the importance of strengthening the implementation of the Consumer Act to better protect buyers, especially in the digital age where online transactions are increasing.

‘CIA with BA’ continues the legacy of the late Senator Rene Cayetano and airs every Sunday at 11:00 p.m. on GMA7, with replays on GTV the following Saturday at 10:30 p.m.