Trading Standards Wales (TSW) has identified that the increase of online transactions throughout and following the pandemic period has resulted in an exponential increase in the value of goods complained about.
So far this year, in Wales, there have been 4,479 complaints to the Citizens Advice Consumer Service relating to problems and concerns when buying goods online. The value of this problem amounts to £7,909,127 with an average value of £1,838.
In a corresponding period, in 2019, there were 3,709 complaints to the Citizens Advice Consumer Service relating to problems and concerns when buying goods online. The value of this problem was £4,496,973 with an average value of £1,256.
There has been an increase of 21% in respect of complaints, and 76% for the total value when those dates are compared.
Complaints concerning counterfeit goods detail 54% originating on the internet or social media platforms; but recent years have seen an increase of purchasing online for goods not traditionally purchased that way. On Day 2, vehicles were discussed.
A large market has also developed for dog sales, often from illegal breeders. Operation Cabal has resulted in over 250 dogs being seized during investigations and connected offences including the supply of illegal or foreign labelled veterinary medicine as well as links to fertility clinic activity. The propensity of this activity in Wales has led to a 3-year funded dedicated animal health team to bolster capacity in local authorities where large raids are planned and complex investigations can benefit from additional support.
For further information, please go to: https://tradingstandards.gov.wales/en/home/