How Customers Are Protected in the Modern Age

It hasn’t always been the case that companies have worked in the best interests of their customers and employees, and it would be a lie to say that this is the case now. But it is true that customers are better protected in the modern age, for a multitude of reasons. The biggest influence, of course, is the arrival of the internet, which has touched just about every sphere of our lives. Below, we’re going to take a look at some of the various ways that consumer power is stronger than ever before.

More Information

Knowledge is power. That’s true for just about everything! But if we think back to the old days, there wasn’t that much information available when it comes to companies, or the products and services that they provided. If you wanted to buy an item, you just had to pay the price, and hope that it was roughly what it should cost. That doesn’t happen now. Before buying anything, customers can search the web and develop a rough understanding of how much the thing they’re going to buy should cost. If it’s far too dear, they can find a different retailer.

Online Reviews

Let’s have a think, again, about the days gone by, in relation to complaints. Then, all you could do is complain directly, and then to your friends and family. Now, a customer who has had a bad experience can take to the web, and share that experience with the world. It isn’t always perfect, and some people do choose to complain for reasons that seem unreliable, but overall, it’s a practice that works. Companies know this, and now have to up their game, otherwise they might feel the wrath of the customer in the online world.

Protected Against Crime

It’s not just a matter of customers taking on companies, however. There’s also the collaboration between companies and customers, as they try and tackle online crime, which is an increasing threat. Companies put safeguards in place to secure their customer’s data. They’re using an identity verification solution for KYC compliance, so that they can verify their customer's identity when they’re not sitting across the desk from them. This works for both parties: the customer is able to feel confident that their data is being handled properly, and the company is able to develop trust with their clients, which is a big part of building a long-term relationship.

Generous Returns Policy

Companies can’t get away with selling shoddy or defective products anymore. If that happens, all the customer has to do is return to the store, and ask for their money back. Consumer rights have come on a long way over the past couple of decades; if the company is playing hardball, they can take the legal route.

Social Movements

Finally, more than ever, companies are having to act in ways that are in line with the ethics of the age. Customers, especially young ones, are turning away from companies who don’t have a social conscience. They can move the world forward just by thinking about the companies they want to support.