THE Black Friday, one of the most anticipated dates in commerce, takes place on November 29th this year.
However, while many are preparing to take advantage of discounts, it is necessary to redouble care to avoid falling into Black Friday scams, which have been growing as online shopping gains momentum in Brazil.
To help, the National Consumer Secretariat (Senacon), linked to the Ministry of Justice and Public Security, has prepared a booklet with tips and rights provided for in the Consumer Protection Code.
Risks on Black Friday
Last year, more than 7,000 complaints were registered by consumers frustrated with false promotions and problems with purchases.
Fraudulent offers, misleading discounts and undelivered products are just a few examples of Black Friday scams which leave many financial losses.
Senacon's guide aims to provide practical tools to help consumers identify real promotions and avoid traps.
Furthermore, the agency announced that it will carry out strict monitoring of the market, working in partnership with consumer protection entities to punish irregularities and protect buyers' rights.
Consumer support tools
For those facing problems, the portal Consumer.gov.br. Around 80% of the complaints registered on the platform reach a satisfactory resolution.
The website is designed to resolve disputes directly with registered companies, reducing the time and bureaucracy involved.
THE Consumer Protection Code is a powerful tool to protect buyers. It ensures that companies are held accountable for deceptive practices, undue charges and breach of contract.
If you identify irregularities, report them to the competent authorities and demand your rights.
How to protect yourself from scams on Black Friday?
The guide lists simple but essential steps to ensure safe purchases and avoid losses. Check out the main recommendations:
- Do price research in advance: Monitor the prices of desired products weeks before Black Friday. Price comparison tools can help you identify real discounts and avoid “half-and-double” deals;
- Beware of overly attractive offers: Be wary of prices that are much lower than the market price. These promotions are often used as bait by fraudulent websites, one of the most common strategies in Black Friday scams;
- Check the seller's reputation: Before completing a purchase, check the store's reputation on platforms such as Reclame Aqui and make sure the CNPJ is active. RedeSim is a useful tool for this verification;
- Read the product description carefully: Products with incomplete or confusing information may hide deceptive practices. The Consumer Protection Code ensures the right to clear and accurate information;
- Know your right to regret: Purchases made outside of a physical establishment, such as online or by telephone, allow withdrawal within seven business days, without the need for justification. This rule protects the consumer against impulsive decisions or products that do not meet expectations;
- Shipping and delivery time: Make sure the supplier provides shipping costs and delivery times before finalizing your purchase. Failure to provide this information could indicate future problems;
- Avoid suspicious links: Many Black Friday scams They start with text messages, emails or ads on social media with unmissable discounts. Always prefer to access websites directly through the browser.