Online Shopping and Digital Rights

Source: Consumer Rights Act 2022, Parts 3–4; EU Consumer Rights Directive 2011/83; EU Geo-blocking Regulation 2018/302

Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on Irish Acts of the Oireachtas, statutory instruments, and official guidance.

Irish National Law

What is this right?

When you buy online from an Irish or EU trader, you have strong protections:

  • 14-day cooling-off period: You can cancel and return goods for any reason within 14 days of delivery.
  • Clear information: Before you buy, the trader must provide: their identity, the total price (including delivery), the main characteristics of the product, and cancellation rights.
  • Delivery: The trader must deliver within 30 days unless you agree to a different timeframe. If they fail, you can set a new deadline — and if they still fail, cancel and get a full refund.
  • Digital content: Digital downloads, streaming services, and cloud storage must be in conformity with the contract, fit for purpose, and as described. You have the same repair/replacement/refund hierarchy.

When does it apply?

  • You purchased goods, services, or digital content online, by phone, or through an app.
  • The trader is based in Ireland or the EU — your rights are strongest within the EU.
  • If the trader is outside the EU, enforcement is more difficult, but you may still have rights under Irish law if the trader targets Irish consumers.
  • The EU Geo-blocking Regulation means traders cannot discriminate against you based on your nationality or country of residence within the EU.

What should you do?

  • If you want to cancel within 14 days, notify the trader in writing (email is fine).
  • If goods are faulty or not as described, contact the trader and request a remedy.
  • If you paid by credit or debit card, you may be able to request a chargeback through your bank if the trader refuses to refund.
  • For cross-border EU disputes, use the European Consumer Centre (ECC Ireland) — a free service that helps resolve complaints with traders in other EU countries.
  • Report rogue online traders to the CCPC.

What should you NOT do?

  • Don't open sealed software, music, or games if you think you might return them — you may lose the cooling-off right.
  • Don't buy from unfamiliar sites without checking — look for reviews, a physical address, and clear contact information.
  • Don't assume "Buy 1 Get 1 Free" or discount offers override your rights — your statutory protections apply regardless of the sale price.

More in Consumer Rights

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