The State of Hawaiʻi Office of Consumer Protection is advising both consumers and businesses to be prepared for the upcoming holiday shopping rush. With Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday just around the corner, KHON2 reported that the state is reminding shoppers to carefully review refund and exchange policies before making any purchases. This proactive approach aims to equip consumers with the knowledge to make informed decisions and prevent potential disputes during the busy shopping season.
Mana Moriarty, executive director of the OCP, emphasized the importance of understanding consumer rights to safeguard against issues and protect spending during this period. The OCP's alert underscores the significance of being well-informed to avoid potential problems. Retailers in Hawaii are legally obligated to post their return policies in a clear and conspicuous manner, as detailed by the Hawaii State Law, ensuring transparency for consumers.
However, it's not just about returns; buyers should also be aware of potential scams. The United States Joint Economic Committee released an alert warning of the increased risk of scams during the holiday shopping season. Scams, such as phishing emails mimicking major retail brands, are expected to surge. Therefore, vigilance is essential.
Furthermore, retailers are increasingly altering their return policies. A recent article by Columbia Missourian highlights how some retailers have quietly tightened these policies in recent years. This reinforces the need for consumers to check the policies before completing a purchase. For instance, according to the Hawaii Consumer Protection blog, if a store does not have a conspicuous return policy, they are legally required to accept returns and provide refunds. Therefore, ensuring you know the policies can save you from hassle and disappointment.
