Customer complaints on online transactions increases by 212% in 2021: DTI-ADN
BUTUAN CITY -- Amid the Covid-19 pandemic, online shopping has significantly thrived, with more consumers shifting to buying online. Purchasing goods online, however, comes with many risks with frauds and scams, misleading or deceptive product advertisements, and difficulty in returns and replacements are among others experienced by many consumers.
In 2021, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Agusan del Norte recorded 25 consumer complaints. Most of the complaints were breach of warranty and deceptive and unconscionable sales act. Five of the complaints filed were against an online platform or online seller. Complaint resolution was at 100%, with complaints acting at the mediation level within the prescribed timeline. Ten complaints were accommodated via Zoom.
The complaints catered significantly increased by 212% compared to 2020. The majority of the complaints filed in 2021 were online transactions/dealings.
Aside from mediated complaints, the office was also able to assist 132 consumers on their issues, queries, and other consumer concerns.
As part of broadening consumer welfare, DTI commits to continuously capacitate business establishments to become more consumer-friendly and comply with fair trade laws or consumer protection laws. DTI strongly campaigns for establishments to set up their respective consumer welfare desk along with a trained staff manning such facility. (DTI-Agusan del Norte/PIA-Agusan del Norte)
