Beware of reviews (kuchikomi) trouble

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Although word-of-mouth or reviews can be helpful when looking for shops and goods, if you cannot judge whether the information is correct or true and can only rely on what was written, there is a possibility and risk of getting into trouble with an evil vendor.

[Example of trouble]

I saw an advertisement in social media that says “loose weight simply by drinking” and “Ongoing free trial”. I applied for the free trial. However, there was no effect even when I drank it so I thought of stopping the trial but it seems that I was automatically subscribed and I was charged for the price.

<Attention points for Kuchikomi>

1. For goods and services that are difficult to understand with advertisement alone, please understand the contents carefully before purchasing.
2. Sometimes individuals are asked by business operators to write reviews. Let’s not rely only on what was written on the reviews “word of mouth”, do the research on the items and its contents thoroughly.
3. There is no cooling-off system in mail order such as online shopping. Before purchasing, let’s check the rules of cancellation / return of goods and whether the subscription is conditional.
4. If you are asked by business operators to write reviews on your blog etc., do not write a review about a product without any basis.

Consultation window for people having troubles

Consumer hotline

TEL: 188
*When making a phone call, an announcement will flow, and will lead you to your local municipal consumption consultation desk or the Mie prefecture consumer affairs center.

Source: 消費者庁　「口コミトラブル」を加工して作成
This article was produced based on Consumer Affairs Agency ‘Word-of-mouth troubles’ post.

http://www.caa.go.jp/policies/policy/consumer_policy/caution/internet/trouble/mouth.html