At SOSC PTY (LTD), we are dedicated to providing a respectful, secure, and enjoyable experience for all visitors to our website and users of our services. As an online store specialising in vintage and antique items, we take great pride in offering unique, delicate pieces that require special care. To protect our business, staff, customers, and the integrity of our products, we reserve the right to restrict or deny access to our website, services, or products under specific circumstances.

This policy is implemented in accordance with South African laws, including:

• Consumer Protection Act (68 of 2008)
• Protection from Harassment Act (No. 17 of 2011)
• Constitution of South Africa

Conditions for Restricted Access

Access to our website, services, or products may be restricted or denied to any individual or entity under the following circumstances:

1. Violation of Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policies, or Other Rules

We provide clear terms and policies to ensure a smooth and secure experience for all users. Access may be restricted if an individual or entity:

• Disregards Terms and Policies: Failing to adhere to guidelines related to product purchases, returns, exchanges, or acceptable use of the platform.
• Misuses Website Features: Activities such as using bots or automated tools to scrape data, attempting to access restricted areas, or interfering with website functionality.
• Uploads Prohibited Content: Posting or sharing offensive, illegal, defamatory, or otherwise inappropriate material in reviews, comments, or forums linked to our platform.
• Fails to Comply with Policy Updates: Ignoring updates to our terms, policies, or procedures after proper communication of the changes.

 

2. Engaging in Abusive, Threatening, or Harassing Behaviour

We have a zero-tolerance policy toward behaviours that disrupt the safety and well-being of our staff, customers, or community. Restricted behaviours include:

• Abusive Language: Using disrespectful, aggressive, or vulgar language in communication with our staff or other customers.
• Persistent Unwanted Communication: Sending excessive messages or inquiries after being asked to stop, or demanding immediate responses to unreasonable requests.
• Threats and Intimidation: Sending messages that threaten physical harm, legal action, or reputational damage to coerce us into actions beyond our stated policies.
• Trolling or Spamming: Deliberately provoking staff or customers through inflammatory comments or overwhelming communication channels with irrelevant messages.
• Coordinated Harassment: Encouraging or organising others to engage in disruptive behaviours, such as "review bombing" or spamming.

3. Participation in Fraudulent or Illegal Activities

Fraudulent or illegal activities harm our business, staff, and the broader community. Access will be immediately restricted for individuals or entities engaging in such actions, and legal action may be pursued. Examples include:

• Providing False Information: Using fake names, addresses, or payment details during checkout or registration.
• Unauthorised Transactions: Attempting to purchase products or services using stolen credit cards, fake accounts, or other illicit means.
• Return Fraud: Exploiting return policies dishonestly, such as returning items not originally purchased from our store or misrepresenting the condition of an item.
• Cybersecurity Violations: Engaging in activities that compromise our platform’s security, such as hacking attempts or distributing malicious software.

 

4. Actions That Compromise Safety, Security, Reputation, or Operational Integrity

To protect our business and community, we reserve the right to restrict access to individuals or entities engaging in behaviours that:

• Disrupt Operations: Overloading our customer support channels with spam or irrelevant inquiries, placing fake orders, or creating fraudulent accounts.
• Harm Reputation: Spreading false or misleading information about our business, products, or staff with the intent to cause harm.
• Engage in Malicious Behavior: Sabotaging promotions or sales by exploiting vulnerabilities, attempting to manipulate pricing errors, or undermining customer trust.
• Jeopardise Security: Attempting to compromise customer privacy through phishing scams, data breaches, or other forms of identity theft.

Harassment of an Online Store

Harassment involves behaviours that disrupt operations, harm our reputation, or create a hostile environment for our business, staff, or customers. Examples include:

1. Repeated Unwanted Communication

• Excessive Inquiries: Sending multiple requests for the same information, such as prices, measurements, or product details, even when this information is clearly provided on our website.
• Ignoring Provided Resources: Refusing to refer to the website or policy pages when directed and continuing to demand direct responses.
• Using Multiple Channels: Contacting us through various platforms to bypass earlier responses or restrictions.
• Persistent Contact After Requests to Stop: Continuing to message after being politely informed that the inquiry has been addressed or is outside our policies.

 

2. Threats and Intimidation

• Coercive Language: Threatening negative reviews, legal action, or reputational damage to force special accommodations.
• Aggressive Demands: Using manipulative or aggressive language to demand discounts, refunds, or services beyond stated policies.

3. False Accusations or Defamation

• Baseless Claims: Making untrue statements about product quality, delivery timelines, or customer service.
• Defamatory Reviews: Posting false or misleading reviews or comments online to damage our reputation.

4. Social Media Harassment

• Spam Comments: Posting irrelevant or spam content on our social media accounts.
• Coordinated Attacks: Organising or encouraging others to harass our store through "review bombing" or trolling.

5. Persistent Unreasonable Demands

• Excessive Customisation Requests: Demanding services or accommodations beyond what is offered or reasonable.
• Unwarranted Discounts or Free Products: Insisting on special deals without valid justification.

Unreasonable Exchange and Return Requests

As an online store specialising in vintage and antique items, we take great care to describe, package, and deliver products safely. We reserve the right to deny exchange or return requests under the following circumstances:

1. Damage Caused by the Customer

Customers are responsible for handling and caring for items appropriately after delivery. We will not accept returns or exchanges for items damaged due to:

1.1 Mishandling of Fragile Items

• Dropping or knocking over items like porcelain, ceramics, glassware, or collectibles.
• Applying excessive force during assembly or disassembly.

1.2 Improper Cleaning or Maintenance

• Silver-Plated Items or Cutlery: Placing in a dishwasher, causing stripping of plating, discolouration, or tarnish.
• Porcelain and Hand-Painted Items: Using abrasive materials that scratch or damage the design.
• Wooden Items: Submerging in water, leading to swelling, warping, or cracking.

1.3 Inappropriate Storage

• Environmental Damage: Exposing items to humidity or extreme temperatures, resulting in tarnishing, corrosion, cracking, or crazing.
• Improper Placement: Placing items in unstable areas, leading to breakage.

1.4 Use Beyond Intended Purpose

• Using decorative items functionally, causing unnecessary wear or damage.
• Overloading items beyond their weight limits, leading to structural damage.

 

2. False Claims of Shipping Damage

We package items with exceptional care. Claims of shipping damage may be denied if:

• Packaging Verified as Secure: Evidence shows adequate protection with padding and sturdy materials.
• Inconsistent Descriptions: The reported damage does not align with shipping-related issues.

3. Requests to Repair Customer-Caused Damage

We cannot repair or replace items damaged due to customer negligence, including:

• Chips, Cracks, or Breakage: Resulting from mishandling.
• Loss of Plating: Due to improper cleaning methods.
• Fabric Damage: Stains or tears from improper care.

4. Timeframe Violations

Return or exchange requests must be made within the timeframe specified in our return policy. Requests outside this period will not be honoured.

 

5. Vintage and Antique Item Considerations

5.1 Minor Wear and Imperfections

• Inherent Characteristics: Signs of age like scratches, fading, patina, or crazing are part of the item's history and not defects.
• Transparency: Detailed descriptions and photographs are provided to ensure informed purchasing decisions.

5.2 Subjective Dissatisfaction

• Returns will not be accepted for reasons such as changing one's mind or the item not meeting personal expectations.

 

Legal Action

We reserve the right to pursue legal action against individuals or entities engaging in behaviour that violates our policies, disrupts operations, or harms our business.

When Legal Action Will Be Pursued

1. Fraudulent Activities:

   • Filing false claims or returns.
   • Using stolen payment methods or engaging in identity theft.

2. Harassment:

   • Persistent abusive communication after formal warnings.
   • Threats of harm, defamation, or legal retaliation with malicious intent.

3. Defamation:

   • Spreading false and damaging information about our business or products.

4. Cybercrime:

   • Hacking attempts or attempts to disrupt our platform’s functionality.
   • Engaging in phishing schemes targeting our business or customers.

Legal Protections

This policy is enforced in compliance with:

• Protection from Harassment Act (No. 17 of 2011)
• Consumer Protection Act (68 of 2008)
• Applicable laws governing cybercrime and fraud

Potential Consequences

• Reporting to Authorities: We may report incidents to law enforcement or regulatory bodies.
• Civil Lawsuits: Pursuing damages incurred by the business.
• Criminal Prosecution: For fraud, harassment, or cybercrime.

 

Transparency and Fairness

We are committed to ensuring that this policy is applied fairly and transparently. If access to our website, services, or products is restricted, we will:

• Provide Reasons Upon Request: Clearly explain the cause of the restriction.
• Offer an Appeal Process: Allow individuals or entities to contest access restrictions through our customer service team.
• Review Cases Promptly: Ensure every case is thoroughly reviewed for compliance with this policy and applicable laws.

Appeals and Inquiries

If you believe your access was unfairly restricted or you wish to clarify this policy, please contact us at:

• Email: admin@somethingoldsomethingchic.com

We are committed to resolving such matters professionally and efficiently.

 

Conclusion

Our priority is to provide a secure, fair, and enjoyable experience for all our customers. By adhering to this policy, you help us maintain the integrity of our platform and ensure that we can continue to offer exceptional vintage and antique items to enthusiasts and collectors.

 

Effective Date: 1 January 2025

Something Old Something Chic