How product review websites can save you money

Whether you're shopping for a fridge or pet insurance, it's helpful to get feedback on a product or service just to make sure you're not about to waste money on a lemon.

I go to productreview.com.au as one source of information, among others.

The website has been operating since May 2003, has 280,000 members, 370,000 reviews, 9 million page views per month and 4 million visitors per month.

It hopes that by providing this feedback Australians can make more informed shopping choices.

Reviewed include cars, vacuum cleaners, coffee machines, strollers, washing machines, dishwashers, blenders, ovens, travel and more.

As with any product review platform, be aware that posts may not be legitimate and therefore it's wise to go to several sources for information.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) recommends shoppers look at multiple reviews and comments about the same business and noting any irregularities, such as a spike in positive reviews over a short period of time or multiple reviews with a similar tone and vocabulary.

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