The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) has noted that there has been an increase in online purchases of goods by local consumers from local traders, particularly as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.

In line with this trend the OFT has seen an increase in complaints and queries regarding cancellations and refund rights following online purchases.

The OFT has reached tout to traders to inform them about the consumer's legal rights in relation to contracts made at a distance (or distant contracts). It is now also issuing this guidance to inform consumers of their rights when entering into distant contracts also.