CCPC CAUTIONS CONSUMERS ON ONLINE SHOPPING

2025-09-17

LUSAKA ZAMBIA - The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (“CCPC”) wishes to advise members of the public to exercise caution when transacting with online businesses. The Commission has noted with concern that some unscrupulous individuals are taking advantage of digital platforms to engage in unfair trade practices or scams such as not supplying products paid for; false claims concerning products on offer; display of disclaimers and unfair contract terms etc.
To help safeguard consumers, the Commission urges the public to be vigilant and look out for RED FLAGS when shopping online, which may include:

1. Comments or feedback sections turned off;
2. Negative reviews about the seller or their offering;
3. Lack of a physical address or contact information for the seller;
4. Use of unverified or suspicious pages;
5. Requests for personal information unrelated to the transactions;
6. Hidden or ballooning costs and prices;
7. Insufficient information about the good or service on offer;
8. Disclaimers that absolve the seller of all responsibility; and
9. No option for self pick-up or location verification.

The Commission strongly warns individuals engaged in unfair trade practices or scams to cease and desist from such conduct, as the law will take its full course on those found wanting.
The Commission remains committed to ensuring a safe and fair-trading environment for consumers in Zambia and urges the public to report any suspicious online business activities.
Remember, if an offer is too good to be true, then it is!!

Florence M. Zaza

Senior Public Relations Officer