Consumer Related Links

Canadians are surfing the Internet in ever-increasing numbers, but are they equally inclined to take the plunge into on-line shopping? What are the pitfalls involved with ordering a product or service over the Internet and paying on-line by credit card?

The consumer section was developed to identify resources which may help answer any questions you, as a consumer, might have.

Consumer Protection Resources:

• Canadian Consumer Information Gateway
  The Canadian Consumer Information Gateway opens the door to reliable consumer information you may not have realized was available. It gives you the tools you need to make informed decisions, and safe and healthy product choices, alerts you to recalls and scams, and provides you with contacts to seek recourse.



• Canadian Consumer Handbook
  Being a wise consumer means being informed. This Handbook offers tips, questions and advice on consumers' rights, along with contacts for help with common problems.



• Consumer Challenges and Solutions



• Tips and Guidelines for On-line Consumers:
  Online calculators and multimedia products to help protect consumers



• Principles of Consumer Protection for Electronic Commerce and Supporting Documentation
  These principles were developed by the Working Group on Electronic Commerce and Consumers and endorsed by Ministers in 1999.



• Canadian Code of Practice for Consumer Protection in Electronic Commerce
  The Code establishes benchmarks for good business practice for merchants conducting commercial activities with consumers online.



• Your Online Shopping Assistant
  The On-line Shopping Assistant will help you assess quickly whether you are getting the information you need before making a purchase.



• Shopping Safely Online
  Here are some tips to help you and your family shop safely online.



• Your Internet Business: Earning consumer trust
  This document provides a guide for on-line merchants to protecting consumers and earning their trust.