Do you enjoy shopping online through apps? If so, pay attention, as the Federal Consumer Protection Agency (Profeco) has evaluated various sales platforms to determine whether safe purchases can be made through them.
Stay informed about the alert from Profeco.
According to Profeco, these are the best hearing aids (though nobody buys them)
Exercise caution when shopping via apps
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The Profeco conducted a study and derived its results from the information available on various platforms, including means of contact, security certificates for payments, and pricing in national currency. Additionally, it evaluated product descriptions for sale, conditions for cancellation, return or exchange, delivery conditions, and consent to receive advertising, among other factors.
According to Profeco, the apps that meet the criteria for safe purchases include Mercado Libre, Amazon, and Shein.
These applications provide contact options between the consumer and the company, display the total amount payable in Mexican pesos, offer information on payment methods, and have cancellation policies, among other features.
Beware of app purchases! Profeco issues alert
Which apps failed Profeco’s evaluation?
On the other hand, the platforms that did not meet the requirements reviewed by Profeco experts in 2024, under the section Monitoring Virtual Stores, include Alibaba, Ebay, and Aliexpress.
According to Profeco, Alibaba fails to provide consumers with all the necessary elements established by the Federal Law for Protection of the Consumer to ensure secure purchases, as it does not list a physical address in the country or a contact telephone number.
Additionally, there is no security certificate provided during the payment process, and the supplier charges in dollars, even though it displays prices in Mexican pesos to the consumer. This ultimately leads to uncertainty about the total cost.
Another consideration is that the legal information on the online store is available only in English.
Similarly, Ebay does not satisfy all the legal requirements for online purchases, as it fails to inform consumers of the total amount payable, does not provide information in Spanish, and does not display prices in national currency. Profeco noted that it also lacks a physical address or telephone number in Mexico for customers to submit complaints or clarifications.
Meanwhile, Aliexpress does not furnish consumers with all the essential elements needed for safe purchases, as it does not provide information about a physical address in the country or a contact telephone number.
Now that you are aware of Profeco’s alert regarding sales platforms through apps or websites, you may be interested in learning how to shop online safely?
Do you like to shop online via apps? Then take note, because the Federal Consumer Protection Agency (Profeco) has rated various sales platforms to assess whether safe purchases can be made through their pages.
Learn about the alert issued by Profeco.
These are the best hearing aids (and nobody buys them), according to Profeco
Be Careful When Buying via Apps
This video may interest you
The Profeco conducted a study gathering results from various platforms based on several factors, including contact information, security certificates for payments, pricing in national currency, and product description accuracy. They also assessed cancellation, return or exchange conditions, delivery terms, and advertising permissions.
Among the apps that meet the criteria for safe purchases are Mercado Libre, Amazon, and Shein. These applications provide:
- Contact Means: Clear channels for consumer inquiries.
- Currency Transparency: Displays total amounts in Mexican pesos.
- Payment Information: Various secure payment options.
- Clear Policies: Defined cancellation and return policies.
Which Apps Failed Profeco’s Test?
Conversely, the platforms that did not pass Profeco’s test in their 2024 Monitoring Virtual Stores report include Alibaba, eBay, and Aliexpress.
- Alibaba: Lacks essential consumer protection elements required by the Federal Law for Protection of the Consumer. It does not provide a local physical address or a contact number, has no security certificate for payments, and charges in dollars despite displaying prices in Mexican pesos, leading to potential confusion about the total cost.
- eBay: Fails to deliver necessary legal elements for online transactions. It does not disclose the total amount payable, lacks information in Spanish, and does not present prices in national currency. Moreover, it does not provide a physical address or contact information for Mexico, hindering customer support.
- Aliexpress: Similar to the previous two, Aliexpress does not provide crucial information such as a local physical address or a contact number, making it difficult for consumers to ensure a secure purchasing experience.
Benefits of Safe Online Shopping Apps
Using reliable shopping apps offers various advantages:
- Security: Trusted applications provide encryption and other security measures to protect personal information.
- Convenience: Shop at any time from anywhere, making it easier to find and purchase items.
- Variety: Access a wide range of products from different sellers, often at competitive prices.
- Consumer Support: Established platforms offer customer service to handle complaints and questions.
Practical Tips for Safe Online Shopping
To enhance your shopping experience and ensure safety, consider the following tips:
- Research Platforms: Before making a purchase, check reviews and ratings of the shopping app.
- Look for Secure Payment Options: Ensure the app supports secure payment gateways.
- Read Reviews: Check product reviews and seller ratings to gauge product quality and seller reliability.
- Understand Return Policies: Familiarize yourself with the return and exchange policies of the platforms.
- Use Strong Passwords: Protect your account with unique and complex passwords.
Case Studies: Successful Purchases on Safe Platforms
Many consumers share their positive experiences when shopping on safe platforms:
- Mercado Libre: A customer reports a seamless experience purchasing electronics, with rapid delivery and excellent customer service available for inquiries.
- Amazon: Shoppers often cite a smooth checkout process, reliable shipping options, and robust product descriptions that help them make informed decisions.
- Shein: Users frequently mention quality clothing at affordable prices, plus easy returns if the item doesn’t meet expectations.
A First-Hand Experience
Consider a first-hand account from a consumer who recently shopped online:
“I’ve always been cautious about shopping online. However, I decided to try Mercado Libre after seeing good reviews. I found a gadget I wanted, and the app made it easy to check specifications and read user feedback. The payment process was secure, and my order arrived within three days. Overall a satisfying experience that built my confidence in online shopping!”
Now that you are informed about Profeco’s alert regarding sales platforms via app or website, stay vigilant and make informed decisions when shopping online.
