Know Your Rights When Shopping Online

• Consumer agreements must disclose all details. If a company isn’t delivering on the contract, or if you encounter an aspect that wasn’t disclosed but was required to be by law as part of the deal (e.g. an unexpected annual renewal fee), you have the right to cancel within 30 days.
• Vague language is discouraged in contracts. All required information must be clear, prominent and easy to understand. If there is a dispute over unclear language, the law requires that it be interpreted in favour of the consumer.
• Deliveries must be made on time. If the company does not make delivery or begin performing its obligations within 30 days of the date stated in the agreement, you can cancel it at any time before delivery or start of service. You lose the right to cancel if you agree to accept delivery or allow the company to perform its obligations after the 30-day period has expired. If the agreement does not state a date, the 30 days run from the date the agreement was entered into. Again, you lose that right if you accept delivery or permit the company to start services after the 30 days.
• You are protected against unfair practices, such as deceptive promotion and sales pitches. If an unfair practice has occurred, you have a year to rescind the agreement. It is best to send a registered letter, fax or e-mail as proof of cancellation. If that doesn’t produce results, see Your Consumer Protection Toolbox for information on the next course of action.