Buying safely from online marketplaces
Why products bought from online marketplaces are more likely to be unsafe, how to spot risky listings, and what to do if something goes wrong.
Online marketplaces make it easy to buy from sellers all over the world. They also make it easy for unsafe products to reach UK homes. Tests by consumer groups have repeatedly found dangerous electrical items, toys and child products on big marketplaces. Here is how to reduce the risk.
Why marketplaces are different
When you buy from a UK shop, that shop is responsible for the product. On a marketplace, you are often buying from a third-party seller based overseas. If something goes wrong, it can be hard to track them down, and the marketplace may say it is only a platform. Recalls are also harder to run, because the seller may not know who bought the product.
Products to be extra careful with
- phone chargers, power banks and other plug-in electrical items
- e-bike and e-scooter batteries and chargers
- toys, especially those with small parts, magnets or button batteries
- baby products such as sleep positioners, slings and car seats
- smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
- cosmetics and skin creams
Signs a listing may be risky
- a price far below the usual price for a branded item
- no clear seller name or UK address
- poor English, blurry photos, or brand names that are slightly misspelled
- no instructions, warnings or safety marks shown
- plugs that are not the standard UK three-pin type
Safer ways to buy
Where you can, buy from the brand’s own shop or from retailers sold and dispatched by the marketplace itself. Pay by credit card for purchases over £100, which can give you extra protection. Keep order confirmations, as you may need them for a recall.
If you have bought something unsafe
Stop using it, report it to the marketplace and to the Citizens Advice consumer helpline, and ask for a refund. See our guide on how to report an unsafe product.
More guides
- Your rights when a product is recalled
- Recall, withdrawal or safety notice: what’s the difference?
- How to report an unsafe product in the UK
- E-bike and e-scooter battery safety
This guide is general information, not legal or medical advice. Always follow the official notice for a specific recall. Read our editorial policy or see all guides.