According to Merriam-Webster’s online dictionary, a consumer is someone who utilizes economic goods. Economic goods can be practically anything, from the food a North Carolina resident buys at their local store to the new furniture they order from an online vendor. When a person agrees to purchase an item in exchange for money, they are engaged a transaction for consumer goods.
Unfortunately, some unscrupulous sellers attempt to take advantage of consumers before, during and after these transactions are completed. Through unfair and deceptive business practices, consumers can be financially harmed by entities that want to take their money without providing what they agreed to in consumer goods. Consumers, however, can make proactive decisions to protect themselves from these types of bad deals.
Fully understand consumer agreements
Some sellers of goods attempt to hide harsh terms in contracts with their consumers. When consumers miss payment acceleration terms, or terms regarding missed payments, they may become bound to agreements that cost them more than they anticipated. Consumers can therefore read all of their agreements carefully before signing and can seek legal support to learn more about consumer contract they do not understand.
Look out for unsolicited offers
Additionally, consumers should be aware that some unscrupulous vendors may attempt to solicit their business through cold calls or pitches received via text or email. Unsolicited sales contacts may not provide consumers with sufficient information to understand what they are buying and should be approached with caution.
Protect sensitive information
Finally, consumers can protect themselves and their finances by safeguarding their sensitive information. Social Security numbers, account numbers, and other data tied to financial assets should not be given to vendors unless under certain conditions. A consumer protection attorney can help in these cases.
Consumer transactions happen each day across North Carolina. Many are completed by reputable vendors. Some are not. Consumers who are harmed by bad business practices may have rights to seek compensation and be made whole after suffering losses.