Published on:
30
May 2014
Clackmannanshire Council's Trading Standards service is advising consumers to make sure they know what kind of website they are using when renewing or applying for a passport, driving license or completing a tax return online.
These services can all be completed online using the appropriate government website which ends in .gov.uk
However, internet search engines will throw up a number of sites if you look up 'passport renewal', and usually the top two results are paid for advertisements and you have to look down the list to ensure that you find the appropriate government site.
Trading standards is advising consumers to make sure that when they search online for these services that they make an informed choice and are aware of which website they are using.
Many private companies offer the same services in terms of completing relevant application forms on line but they will charge for this. Consumers need to look through all the information on the website to make sure that they are aware of any applicable charges. Many will have a tick box comparing their service to the comparable government website where it is clear that there may be a fee in using this site but there is no charge if you use the government site.
Trading Standards all over the UK have looked at these sites and contrary to information you may find online, they are not illegal. As long as they make clear to consumers the services that they provide and the relevant charges attached and do not purport to be the government site, they are doing nothing wrong.
Committee Convener Donald Balsillie said: "Our trading standards service is asking consumers in Clackmannanshire to make sure that they 'spot the difference' and read through all the information on websites clearly before parting with any money. We all live busy lives, but it is worth taking a moment to check, as this could help save you money."