Latest news with #RebeccaBebbington
Scottish Sun
5 days ago
- Business
- Scottish Sun
Four items you should NEVER buy on Facebook Marketplace and the surprising one that could save you money
Scroll to find out your rights when buying on the platform and how to avoid being scammed SHOP TO IT Four items you should NEVER buy on Facebook Marketplace and the surprising one that could save you money Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) FROM second-hand clothing to antique furniture and even cars, you can find almost anything nowadays on Facebook Marketplace. Millions of people in the UK use the platform to snap up some great bargains or sell their unwanted goods, but it's important to stay savvy when buying or selling to avoid fraudsters. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 1 Millions of people in the UK use Facebook Marketplace to buy and sell goods A shopping expert has revealed the things you should never buy from Facebook Marketplace, as well as the top items that could end up saving you cash. Consumer expert at Rebecca Bebbington says: 'Buying and selling on Facebook Marketplace is a great way to shift some unwanted items, make a quick buck or uncover a gem you've been looking for, but there's still some things people should be aware of. 'When you buy on Facebook Marketplace there's no buyer protection. "Unlike platforms like eBay or Depop, Facebook doesn't offer buyer protection for Marketplace transactions, so purchases are entirely at your own risk." Rebecca has shared her tips for the best things to buy on Facebook Marketplace, and the four you should stay away from to make sure you always get the best bargains. Top Facebook Marketplace buys Pet supplies Pet accessories are one of the best things you can buy on Facebook Marketplace, according to Rebecca, and you could save loads of cash compared to buying them new. "Dog crates, cat towers, pet carriers, and even unopened food or litter often come up when people no longer need them," she says. "These essentials can be surprisingly pricey new, so it's worth checking Marketplace before heading to a pet store." Home gym equipment Fitness gear like dumbbells, kettlebells, rowing machines, and even Pelotons pop up regularly on Facebook Marketplace. "Many sellers list them after losing motivation," Rebecca says, "which means you can grab barely-used kit for a steep discount." Spot a Rare £1 Coin Worth Up to £500: The Key Details Every Collector Should Know If you want to workout at home, you can save hundreds on home gym equipment buying from Marketplace instead of high street stores. "Just be quick, as these are in demand," she adds. Garden furniture and tools Now is a good time to snap up things like deck chairs, lawnmowers, planters, and patio sets, as many will be getting rid of them after their spring or summer clear-outs. "Buying second-hand can save you hundreds compared to new garden centre prices," Rebecca says. "Just make sure that any electronic or gas-powered tools that you buy are in full working condition before handing over any money." Kitchen gadgets Facebook Marketplace can be a brilliant way to update your kitchen on the cheap. "Air fryers, mixers, slow cookers and even fridges often appear in listings when people are upgrading or moving." However, if you are buying anything electric, be sure to test it out before you buy it. You'll be able to do this if you meet the seller in person to buy the item - something a lot of Facebook Marketplace users do. Other top buys Rebecca suggests are items like dining tables, dressers, and bookshelves, as these "are often high-quality, pre-loved pieces that would cost a fortune new". "People clearing out quickly or downsizing will sell them for far less than their true value, sometimes even for free if you can collect." Things you should never buy on Facebook Marketplace Makeup or skincare Makeup is "by far one of the worst things you can buy" on a platform like Facebook Marketplace, Rebecca warns. It poses serious safety and hygiene risks, as it's hard to know if they're genuine, expired, or have been previously used. She says that for the sake of a couple of quid, "you're best buying new from the store". Child car seats Child car seats can set you back hundreds of pounds nowadays, so it might be tempting to try and find one second-hand. "While it might seem like a good way to save a couple of pounds, you should never skip on safety," Rebecca adds. "With these items, you can't verify their safety history. If they've been in an accident, they may be compromised." Electronics with missing chargers or packaging Electronics are one of the most popular things to buy on Facebook Marketplace, but if they have missing chargers or packaging it might not be the best buy. "These could be stolen or faulty, and there's often no comeback if they stop working," Rebecca warns. Be sure to check with the seller that the equipment comes with chargers and original packaging before buying. Event tickets Rebecca strongly warns against buying concert tickets on Facebook Marketplace, given the recent rise in ticket scams. "We've all learnt from Taylor Swift's Eras Tour and now Oasis' ongoing tour. "Concert tickets, or any event ticket for that matter, are commonly faked or sold multiple times. "You're better off using official resale platforms," she says. What are my rights on Facebook Marketplace? WHILE it can be a great place to bag a bargain, buying on Facebook Marketplace does come with risks. According to Which?, if you buy from a private seller on Facebook marketplace, you have fewer consumer rights than if you were to buy from an online store. The principal of "buyer beware" applies, whereby the goods must be as described but the seller does not have to disclose any faults. But the seller would be in breach of contract if they didn't send you anything after taking your money, or if the goods were misrepresented. Unlike sites like eBay, Amazon or Depop, Facebook Marketplace doesn't offer extra buyer protection, so you're not guaranteed a refund for damaged or faulty items, or if the item doesn't turn up. Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing money-sm@ Plus, you can join our Sun Money Chats and Tips Facebook group to share your tips and stories
The Sun
5 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
Four items you should NEVER buy on Facebook Marketplace and the surprising one that could save you money
FROM second-hand clothing to antique furniture and even cars, you can find almost anything nowadays on Facebook Marketplace. Millions of people in the UK use the platform to snap up some great bargains or sell their unwanted goods, but it's important to stay savvy when buying or selling to avoid fraudsters. 1 A shopping expert has revealed the things you should never buy from Facebook Marketplace, as well as the top items that could end up saving you cash. Consumer expert at Rebecca Bebbington says: ' Buying and selling on Facebook Marketplace is a great way to shift some unwanted items, make a quick buck or uncover a gem you've been looking for, but there's still some things people should be aware of. 'When you buy on Facebook Marketplace there's no buyer protection. "Unlike platforms like eBay or Depop, Facebook doesn't offer buyer protection for Marketplace transactions, so purchases are entirely at your own risk." Rebecca has shared her tips for the best things to buy on Facebook Marketplace, and the four you should stay away from to make sure you always get the best bargains. Top Facebook Marketplace buys Pet supplies Pet accessories are one of the best things you can buy on Facebook Marketplace, according to Rebecca, and you could save loads of cash compared to buying them new. "Dog crates, cat towers, pet carriers, and even unopened food or litter often come up when people no longer need them," she says. "These essentials can be surprisingly pricey new, so it's worth checking Marketplace before heading to a pet store." Home gym equipment Fitness gear like dumbbells, kettlebells, rowing machines, and even Pelotons pop up regularly on Facebook Marketplace. "Many sellers list them after losing motivation," Rebecca says, "which means you can grab barely-used kit for a steep discount." Spot a Rare £1 Coin Worth Up to £500: The Key Details Every Collector Should Know If you want to workout at home, you can save hundreds on home gym equipment buying from Marketplace instead of high street stores. "Just be quick, as these are in demand," she adds. Garden furniture and tools Now is a good time to snap up things like deck chairs, lawnmowers, planters, and patio sets, as many will be getting rid of them after their spring or summer clear-outs. " Buying second-hand can save you hundreds compared to new garden centre prices," Rebecca says. "Just make sure that any electronic or gas-powered tools that you buy are in full working condition before handing over any money." Kitchen gadgets Facebook Marketplace can be a brilliant way to update your kitchen on the cheap. " Air fryers, mixers, slow cookers and even fridges often appear in listings when people are upgrading or moving." However, if you are buying anything electric, be sure to test it out before you buy it. You'll be able to do this if you meet the seller in person to buy the item - something a lot of Facebook Marketplace users do. Other top buys Rebecca suggests are items like dining tables, dressers, and bookshelves, as these "are often high-quality, pre-loved pieces that would cost a fortune new". "People clearing out quickly or downsizing will sell them for far less than their true value, sometimes even for free if you can collect." Things you should never buy on Facebook Marketplace Makeup or skincare Makeup is "by far one of the worst things you can buy" on a platform like Facebook Marketplace, Rebecca warns. It poses serious safety and hygiene risks, as it's hard to know if they're genuine, expired, or have been previously used. She says that for the sake of a couple of quid, "you're best buying new from the store". Child car seats Child car seats can set you back hundreds of pounds nowadays, so it might be tempting to try and find one second-hand. "While it might seem like a good way to save a couple of pounds, you should never skip on safety," Rebecca adds. "With these items, you can't verify their safety history. If they've been in an accident, they may be compromised." Electronics with missing chargers or packaging Electronics are one of the most popular things to buy on Facebook Marketplace, but if they have missing chargers or packaging it might not be the best buy. "These could be stolen or faulty, and there's often no comeback if they stop working," Rebecca warns. Be sure to check with the seller that the equipment comes with chargers and original packaging before buying. Event tickets recent rise in ticket scams. "We've all learnt from Taylor Swift's Eras Tour and now Oasis' ongoing tour. "Concert tickets, or any event ticket for that matter, are commonly faked or sold multiple times. "You're better off using official resale platforms," she says. What are my rights on Facebook Marketplace? WHILE it can be a great place to bag a bargain, buying on Facebook Marketplace does come with risks. According to Which?, if you buy from a private seller on Facebook marketplace, you have fewer consumer rights than if you were to buy from an online store. The principal of "buyer beware" applies, whereby the goods must be as described but the seller does not have to disclose any faults. But the seller would be in breach of contract if they didn't send you anything after taking your money, or if the goods were misrepresented. Unlike sites like eBay, Amazon or Depop, Facebook Marketplace doesn't offer extra buyer protection, so you're not guaranteed a refund for damaged or faulty items, or if the item doesn't turn up. .
South Wales Argus
21-07-2025
- Automotive
- South Wales Argus
Cardiff among UK's most expensive spots for parking
Drivers in the Welsh capital have been warned to check local parking charges before setting off, or risk a nasty shock when they reach the ticket machine. This comes following a recent study by NetVoucherCodes that revealed the councils with the biggest increases in on-street parking prices from the past 12 months. Introducing the list, the experts said: "Motorists are facing eye-watering rises in on-street parking charges, with new figures revealing that some councils have doubled their rates in the past year. "The data experts at NetVoucherCodes wanted to see to what extent, and so analysed current on-street parking costs for the centre of each city and compared these with prices a year ago. "According to the data, some councils have doubled their on-street parking costs while others charge up to £9 for an hour of parking." Councils with the biggest increases in on-street parking prices The councils that have recorded the biggest increases in on-street parking prices over the past year, according to NetVoucherCodes, are: Milton Keynes (100%) Liverpool (67%) York (56%) Cardiff (35%) Manchester (33%) Leicester (25%) Oxford (15%) Birmingham (13%) Bristol (13%) Glasgow (13%) Cardiff among UK's most expensive spots for on-street parking In the past 12 months, on-street parking charges in Cardiff have increased by 90p, from £2.60 in 2024 to £3.50 in 2025. This is the fourth-highest increase out of anywhere in the UK, behind only Milton Keynes, Liverpool, and York. Cardiff now also ranks among the country's most expensive spots for on-street parking: Edinburgh (£9.00) Cambridge (£8.40) Oxford (£7.60) Glasgow (£7.20) London (£7.20) York (£4.85) Bristol (£4.50) Birmingham (£4.30) Liverpool (£4.00) Manchester (£4.00) Cardiff (£3.50) Leeds (£3.40) Sheffield (£3.25) Newcastle (£3.10) Nottingham (£3.00) RECOMMENDED READING: Consumer expert at NetVoucherCodes, Rebecca Bebbington, said: 'Steep rises risk pricing people out of city centres, harming local businesses as fewer visitors are willing to pay the sky-high charges. "With the cost of living already spiralling, these huge hikes are unfair on drivers who have little alternative but to use their cars. "Councils should be supporting the recovery of high streets, not punishing people for popping into town.' Cardiff Council has been contacted for comment.
Glasgow Times
07-06-2025
- Glasgow Times
HMRC scam warning on the tricks might catch you out
Ultimately, HMRC will never ask you for personal or financial info out of the blue. They don't contact people via WhatsApp, and they won't threaten you with arrest. If you receive anything suspicious, forward the message to phishing@ or text 60599 for scam texts. For full peace of mind, always log in directly to your tax account rather than trusting messages or emails. As always, the advice stands that if something looks too good to be true, it usually is, but Rebecca Bebbington, personal finance expert at NetVoucherCodes says there are detailed scams hitting inboxes and phones this summer and, looks at how taxpayers can protect themselves without losing a penny. 1. 'You're Due a Tax Rebate' Text or Email This one's an old favourite because it works unless you're wise to it. You get a message claiming you're owed a tax refund and need to click a link to claim it. That link usually takes you to a fake HMRC website that looks convincing enough to fool most people. From there, you'll be asked for personal info such as bank details, date of birth, and even your NI number, all under the guise of processing your refund. (Image: NetVoucherCodes) If you do get an email about a tax rebate from HMRC, make sure the address ends in If you get one of these, forward it to phishing@ so the authorities can track the scammers. To check if you're owed a refund, log into your personal tax account directly via – never through a link in a message. 2. Robocall Saying 'HMRC Is Filing a Lawsuit Against You' This is one of the nastier ones. You get a robotic call telling you HMRC is taking legal action or that a warrant is out for your arrest unless you press a number and speak to someone. It's designed to frighten you into paying a fake 'fine' or handing over sensitive details. HMRC does not call people this way. They don't send the police round if you miss a letter. If you get one of these calls, hang up immediately. Don't engage, don't press anything, and don't give them the satisfaction of a reply. If you're unsure, call HMRC yourself on 0300 200 3300. 3. 'Confirm Your Self-Assessment Details' Phishing Emails After the end of the self-assessment tax deadline, fraudsters switch tactics. Now it's all about convincing you there's an issue with your tax return and asking you to 'verify' your information to avoid penalties or delays. These emails often look legitimate, they might have the HMRC logo, some official-sounding language, and a link to a login page. But the page is fake, designed purely to capture your login and security answers. Once scammers have that, they can access your real tax account and commit fraud in your name. So don't click. If you're ever unsure whether something is real, go straight to the source: open a new browser tab and go directly to Never trust the links in emails unless you're absolutely certain where they came from. 4. Fake Tax Refund Services on Social Media There's a newer breed of scam doing the rounds and it's targeting people on TikTok, Instagram and even WhatsApp. So-called 'tax experts' or 'refund agents' claim they can unlock hidden rebates from HMRC, promising quick cash in exchange for a fee or a cut of your refund. But they're often unregulated, unqualified, and in some cases, outright fraudsters. Some will ask for your HMRC login details (a huge red flag), while others will file dodgy claims on your behalf, leaving you liable when HMRC comes knocking. Rule of thumb: if someone slides into your DMs offering a miracle refund, it's almost certainly a scam. Stick to registered tax agents listed on the website and never share your login credentials with anyone. 5. Fake Court Summons or Arrest Threats via Email or WhatsApp In this scam, you might get a WhatsApp message or email warning you that legal action has already been taken against you. It often says you've ignored previous notices and now face court, fines or even jail. Some include PDF 'summons' or 'final warnings' with fake HMRC branding to ramp up the pressure. It's pure intimidation. HMRC doesn't threaten legal action via WhatsApp or email, and they certainly don't send out arrest notices. If you're ever worried a message might be genuine, contact HMRC directly using their verified numbers, but don't click on or respond to these messages. Delete and report them. Get your tax return done early and find out sooner if you're owed money. ⏲️ We'll let you know if you've overpaid tax after you file your Self-Assessment tax return and refund you. 💷 File today. 👇 — HM Revenue & Customs (@HMRCgovuk) June 3, 2025 6. Fake National Insurance 'Compromise' Calls Here's a nasty one that's been doing the rounds for a while and has seen a resurgence recently. You get a call, sometimes automated, sometimes a real person, claiming your National Insurance number has been compromised and is being used for fraudulent activity. They say unless you act quickly, your assets will be frozen or the police will get involved. What follows is a request for you to 'verify your identity' by giving personal information – NI number, date of birth, full name, even bank details. In some cases, they'll ask you to transfer money to a 'safe account' while they 'investigate.' Don't fall for it. Your NI number can't be 'suspended' or frozen. HMRC doesn't call people to talk about identity fraud like this, and they certainly won't ask you to move money. If you get a call like this, hang up immediately. If you're worried, contact HMRC or the National Insurance helpline directly using numbers from the site. Recommended reading: 7. Bogus 'Tax Overpayment' Letters Through the Post While we usually focus on digital scams, old-school postal scams haven't gone away – and they're starting to look more professional. Some people have reported receiving letters claiming they've overpaid tax and are due a refund. These letters sometimes come with fake HMRC letterheads and a reply form asking for your bank account info or even copies of ID to 'confirm your claim.' Because they arrive in the post and look official, people often trust them more than they should. But HMRC doesn't ask for this level of personal detail through the post, especially not copies of ID or full card details. If you receive something like this, compare it against real correspondence from HMRC. Still unsure? Ring HMRC directly to confirm whether the letter is genuine. And never, ever send bank or ID details to an address you can't verify.
