KINGSTON, Jamaica (JIS) — The Consumer Affairs Commission (CAC) is reporting that it secured $14.9 million on behalf of aggrieved consumers since the beginning of the financial year.

Chief Executive Officer of the CAC, Dolsie Allen made the disclosure while addressing a JIS Think Tank held on November 30.

She informed that a total of 1087 complaints were handled by the Agency between April and October.

“Our data indicate a nine per cent increase in complaints filed about electrical equipment and appliances, with 269 or 33.42 per cent of complaints related to those items,” she stated.

An analysis of the categories for which complaints were filed with the CAC showed other services accounting for 14.04 per cent; cable services, 11.30 per cent; utilities, 10.19 per cent; and motor vehicle and parts, 9.07 per cent.

Allen told JIS News that the resolution rate for the complaints filed was at 66.8 per cent. She also urged consumers to protect their interests by doing proper research before conducting transactions.

“We are warning consumers to exercise due diligence when purchasing items during the Christmas period. So read all labels, test appliances before leaving stores, learn about the merchant’s warranty and return policy and secure a detailed receipt,” she explained.

Meanwhile, Communications Specialist at the CAC, Dorothy Campbell, also urged citizens to avoid making impulse purchases during the festive period.

“Buyer’s remorse is one of the areas that contribute significantly to the number of complaints that we get especially after the busy seasons of shopping, such as back to school and Christmas,” Ms. Campbell said.

“Consumers need to be aware that when they purchase items, once they step through the door with that item, they can’t simply change their minds as then it is up to the discretion of the vendor,” she added.

The CAC is the national agency responsible for consumer advocacy. For further information, persons can call 876-906-5425 or email info@cac.gov.jm.