Black Friday & Co: Skepticism is important when it comes to discount campaigns

Black Friday Image: Pexels

Bargain hunters should not blindly trust the discount promises in online retail on various promotional days in November. Although you can go around it "Black Friday" (November 24th) and "Cyber ​​Monday" (November 27th) you can definitely get one or two bargains, explain the consumer advice centers. But not every discount is actually as high as it seems. On top of that, there were also black sheep among those offering.

It is important to keep a cool head and not allow yourself to be put under pressure to buy. Retailers often changed their offers and prices several times a day. And you should never do without price comparisons in different price search engines. In the end, these could be more worthwhile than a supposed super special offer. The consumer advocates give these points to discount hunters:

  1. Think about fake shops: Dubious retailers appear on the internet with their own pages, but some are also active on online marketplaces. That’s why the following always applies: Never make dangerous purchases in advance, but rather pay by invoice or direct debit.

  2. Don’t be blinded: Huge discounts and fantastic prices are often based on a comparison with the manufacturer’s recommended retail price (RRP), which is almost never required.

  3. Always compare prices: Use at least two price search engines to find the cheapest price. Only if an offer cannot be undercut, it may really be a bargain or at least a good offer.

  4. Show the cold shoulder to pressure tools: Red bars that supposedly show melting stocks or expiring clocks are popular marketing tools to put buyers under pressure. If there is actually not enough time to check a seemingly attractive offer, you can, as an exception, buy on suspicion. But then check the price immediately. If the item is cheaper elsewhere, you sometimes have the option of canceling the purchase free of charge. You should check this option before purchasing.

  5. Be economical with data: You should delete cookies in your browser regularly. And when ordering from an online shop, it’s best not to provide any more data than absolutely necessary.

  6. Use the right of withdrawal: If the cancellation does not work for the dealer, you still have to withdraw. When purchasing online, this is usually possible without giving reasons up to 14 days after delivery. However, return shipping costs may apply. (dpa)

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