ON Saturday, March 15, 2014 the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) joined with other local and international consumer bodies to celebrate World Consumer Rights Day under the theme “fix our phone rights”. As the organisation responsible for monitoring the quality of cellular phones offered for sale in Guyana, the GNBS takes this opportunity to share the following information with consumers.Buying a Cell Phone?

Tips for the Consumer
 Check for signs of scratches, stains, fading on the keypad and display areas.

 Check for tampering of screws or evidence of screwdriver use.

 Check for original manual, charger and battery if the phone is new. The brand and series should be the same as for the phone.

 Check the call timer, missed calls, numbers stored in the phone, text messages, dialed calls box and the international mobile equipment identity (IMEI) number for evidence of prior use.

Caring your cell phones:
 Do not allow them to fall.

 Do not allow them to get wet.

 Do not sit on them in your back pocket.

 Do not download or store too much data on them.

 Do not handle them roughly.

 Do not try to repair them.

 Do not be dishonest when making complaints.

Selling a Cell Phone?
Responsibility of the Importer/Dealer. He/she must:

 Not sell “used” “refurbished” or “reconditioned” phones as “new” phones.

 Label phones appropriately as “used” or “refurbished” or “new.”

 Offer and issue warranties and guarantees and honour these in a timely manner.

 Be registered annually with the GNBS and address consumer complaints adequately.

 Provide facilities for repairs.

 Not be involved in any unscrupulous practice e.g. switching of parts, or manipulation of call timer.

 Give professional advice and guidance to customers.

For further information, please call the Consumer Hotline: 219-0069.