'Fake-Up' sellers con Facebook shoppers?

Friday 16 December 2016

Kylie Jenner lip kits might be a popular choice on many Island teenagers’ wish list this Christmas, but make-up lovers are being warned to act with caution before buying them from second-hand sales groups on Facebook.

Last week, Islanders expressed concern that potentially fake cosmetics were circulating the popular Facebook group ‘Jersey Stuff for Sale’ - and now the Consumer Council has warned that if it looks too good to be true, it probably is.

With over 24,000 members, the buying and selling site is a popular spot for those moving house or simply looking to cash in on their unwanted goods.

But members have noticed a worrying trend of designer cosmetics – some with an RRP upwards of £30 - selling for as low as £2. 

Pictured: An Islander's warning to others on Facebook group 'Jersey Stuff for Sale'.

It might sound like the ideal time to bag a bargain, but many have expressed worry that the fakes might be “full of harmful substances which will probably leave you with an allergic reaction.”

Some of the biggest fears, however, centred around the sale of fake Kyle Jenner lip kits – some of which have been alleged to contain glue and other noxious substances, which have led to chemical burns. Miss Jenner herself took to Twitter to warn of this.
 

WOW guys this is not safe!!! https://t.co/Pw1XT7eNea

— Kylie Jenner (@KylieJenner) October 26, 2016

It has since been suggested that sellers provide proof of authenticity, but Jersey Consumer Council’s Executive Officer, Anne King, suggests avoiding such purchases altogether:

"Don’t be tempted to buy branded goods which are selling way below the normal market price as this would imply that they are likely to be counterfeit. 

“We recommend you #takefive and do not buy these items as they will not have gone through all of the rigorous safety checks and can be dangerous or even contain hazardous substances.  Never apply counterfeit cosmetic products and perfume to your skin or plug in fake electrical goods,” she said.

Second-hand shoppers should also be aware that they have fewer rights when buying from a private individual, Mrs King added:

“When buying privately, your statutory rights are:

• the seller must own the goods they are selling 

• the goods must be as described 

• the seller should also disclose all defects in the goods that they are aware of which may render the goods not of satisfactory quality 

“Keep a copy of any advert describing the goods, just in case. This may include cutting out the advert in the paper or printing the description you saw on a website/Facebook. You could also take someone with you to act as a witness to any conversations. This is always sensible advice when meeting strangers.”

If in doubt, those concerned can contact Trading Standards on 01534 448160.