Be careful, firewood buyers! How to protect yourself from fake shops!

Be careful, firewood buyers! How to protect yourself from fake shops!

The firewood season is just around the corner and many Cologne residents have already started looking for the necessary fuel for their fireplaces and stoves. Demand has increased significantly in recent years in particular due to rising energy prices. However, according to the State Criminal Police Office (LKA), there is an alarming trend: the increase in fake shops that pose as legal wood suppliers. Fraudulent online providers not only charge excessive prices, but often do not deliver any goods or deliver inferior products. LN Online reports an increase in these dubious providers, urging consumers in the region to be cautious.

What is particularly explosive is that the police in Ostholstein have been talking about a “dark field” since 2023, but have not provided any exact figures on the victims of online fraud. Many of those affected are afraid to report the crime because the financial loss often seems manageable. Despite these circumstances, the LKA advises that cases of fraud should be reported, even if the investigation is considered difficult due to international money transfers. If you don't do your research carefully when buying firewood, you can quickly get a rude awakening.

Tips for avoiding fake shops

The consumer advice center urgently warns against dubious providers who disguise themselves under identical names as legitimate timber trading companies. Important tips for exposing fake shops include checking addresses and telephone numbers. Dubious shops often have fake or inactive contact details. Consumers should also be particularly vigilant when it comes to prices that are too low and pay attention to the payment methods, especially if advance payment is required. According to the information from NDR We advise against disclosing personal information carelessly.

Another helpful tool is the “fake shop finder” that consumer advice centers offer. This tool can be used to check online providers to protect yourself against fraud. What many consumers don't know: Once money has been paid by dubious retailers, it is often lost and timely action to take action is essential. The North Rhine-Westphalia consumer advice center also lists important information about refunds, which is particularly helpful in cases of fraud.

Legitimate sources of firewood

If you want to buy real, high-quality firewood, you should consider purchasing it from the state forests. Here, those who collect it themselves can purchase real firewood at prices between 20 and 50 euros per cubic meter. Given the current price situation for gas and electricity—with high costs between 970 and 1,650 euros for a household with 3,500 kWh annual consumption and gas prices of 8 to 10 cents per kilowatt hour—consumers should pay even more attention to the quality of the firewood and beware of dubious dealers.

In summary, while the firewood season is a welcome opportunity for many to secure a warm winter, it is advisable to pay close attention to avoid falling for scammers. Make sure you take all the necessary steps to purchase your heating materials safely and reliably.