Recently, we've seen some companies offering hardware products, vehicle parts, household appliances, cell phones, and other items on social media and digital platforms through companies that have no commercial relationship with the Western Free Trade Zone.
We warn the public not to be fooled by these types of fake pages and publications. We encourage them to report them and thus prevent others from becoming victims of unscrupulous actions.
We are emphatic in stating that none of the companies located in the Western Free Trade Zone make any kind of retail sales. We also emphasize that these fake websites and publications are currently under investigation by the prosecutor's office.
If you have any questions, you can request information by emailing experienciacliente@zonafrancaoccidente.com or calling 321 497 34 47
We'd like to take this opportunity to give you 10 tips for shopping online safely.
Without a doubt, the internet has come to make our lives easier. Today, we can buy virtually anything using a computer, phone, or tablet and have the product delivered to our doorstep in a matter of days, or even the same day. However, given its vastness, the web can pose some dangers, especially when it comes to private, personal, or financial data. That's why it's important to take precautions when making online transactions. Here, we'll explain how to offer and make secure online purchases.
1. Buy from well-known and reputable websites
A reputable site is recognized by its design, what it offers, payment methods, and security.
Searching online for the best deal can lead to unknown and unreliable websites. Stay away from them. Check that the website's URL matches the one you think you're using and that its address begins with https. By purchasing from trusted, reputable websites, you'll avoid becoming a victim of data or identity theft. Likewise, it's important that these stores have a secure and responsible payment gateway.
Remember that credit card numbers, security codes, or debit card PINs are confidential information and should not be shared via chat, email, phone calls, or text messages.
2. Review the legality of the company.
Every company must have a registration for its incorporation or creation. In Colombia, it's the National Tax Identification Number (NIT). You can use it to verify the company's incorporation, physical address, contact phone number, legal representative, and email address.
Make sure all the information is consistent. Name, address, landline, and cell phone number. You can also request the Chamber of Commerce, and in both cases, no company will give you any problems.
3. Conditions and additional costs
When making a purchase, always read all the information provided about the promotion. Sometimes taxes or shipping are not included in the offered price. Also, check the dates on which the discount applies.
If you're unsure or don't provide enough information, it's best to contact the store directly and ask any questions you may have. Some offer advice via WhatsApp or chatbots. It's best to find out and avoid any headaches.
4. Review the store's privacy and return policy
Before purchasing from an online store, check if their privacy policy is posted prominently and up-to-date. Do you know what to do if your product isn't right for you? How can you return it? These are also aspects to consider when choosing where to buy.
Each store has its own policy; whether it's after a certain number of business days, free of charge, directly in a physical store, or shipping only, etc.
Of course, always with the purchase invoice, labels, accessories, and original packaging.
5. Provide only the necessary personal information
If you're surprised that someone asks you for personal information (cell phone number, names of family members, place of birth, etc.) to make a purchase, don't do it and check if you're in the right place.
6. Avoid links in emails and ads
Is the offer you just received in the email too good to be true? Then it probably isn't. Ad campaigns and emails with offers and great discounts are a popular tool for cybercriminals. Avoid phishing.
7. Compare prices and offers when shopping online
The great advantage of buying online: being able to check different websites to compare and make sure the deal is worth it. Or even to learn more about the features of products and/or services. It's always better to be wary when something is too cheap; you could end up buying imitations or poor-quality versions.
8. Consider shipping or in-store pickup options
Sometimes, buyers have the option of paying for shipping to their doorstep or picking it up directly at the store. However, if the delivery promise is more than 20 business days away, it's best to pick it up in person.
Also, don't forget to check if your address is within the coverage area and how many days delivery takes. When stores partner with quality and recognized shipping services, you can track your order on the shipping company's website and find out where it is and the estimated delivery time.
9. Check the payment method available for online purchases.
At this point, you've probably already made the decision to shop online. Now it's time to review what payment methods your chosen store offers. Whether it's credit card only, or if they offer more options such as debit card, cash on delivery, bank deposit, PayPal, among others. In fact, even more options and innovations have recently been implemented, such as virtual cards, payments through apps, and more.
10. Check the status of your purchase and bank transactions
After making a purchase, it's important to check if your transaction was approved and review your bank account transactions. This way, you can find out the number of transactions and the merchant from which they were made. If you suspect a scam or notice anything irregular, call your bank immediately.
We hope these tips will help you make your sales or purchase process successful. Ensuring successful processes.