As the world marks World Consumer Rights Day (WCRD) on 15 March 2022, the Gauteng Office of Consumer Affairs (GOCA) is urging consumers to be vigilant and know their rights before buying products. Too often, consumers are frequently misled by claims of good quality, unfair trade practices, flashy packaging, deceptive advertising, and dubious items, and are unable to make rational decisions. In addition, the Covid-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on local consumer markets. One of GOCA’s concerns was the rise in prices of goods and services to unjustified levels. Furthermore, consumers had engaged in panic buying of some items (e.g. face masks, tissue paper, soaps, sanitisers and groceries, etc.) creating an environment advantageous to abuse.