Weekly Report, 2024-01-29 to 2024-02-04

During the week from January 29, 2024, to February 4, 2024, the Service Juridique engaged in a total of 18 consultations concerning various consumer issues. The primary channels of communication utilized were email, video calls, and messenger, with each medium facilitating effective dialogue between consumers and our legal service team. Notably, a substantial number of consultations revolved around the topic of travelers’ rights concerning both train travel and air travel. In eight instances, consumers sought advice on recourse options available after experiencing travel disruptions. Our legal team provided guidance on the applicable EU regulations, focusing on compensation entitlements and complaint procedures against service providers.

In five separate cases, we addressed issues related to unfair business practices. Consumers reported concerns about misleading advertisements and product misrepresentation. The counsel provided included detailed explanations of how to file complaints with relevant consumer protection agencies and advised on gathering necessary documentation to support their claims.

Additionally, consultations involving concerns over general terms and conditions were prevalent, with four cases being addressed. Consumers expressed confusion over complex contractual terms. We advised them to demand clear and accessible contract explanations from service providers and discussed potential legal actions if unfair terms were involved.

The area of pseudo medicine/health products was addressed in three consultations. Consumers were advised to verify claims with recognized health authorities and were informed of the regulatory pathways available for reporting potentially fraudulent products.

There were no instances this week where counseling failed due to issues falling outside our jurisdiction. The consultations exemplified our commitment to providing practical solutions and empowering consumers with the knowledge to assert their rights within the scope of EU consumer protection laws.

This week counseling was provided by WhizzBang.

The Service Juridique serves as the Legal Department of and for all members of the WhizzBang network. It’s professionals are located in Belgium, Slovakia, Estonia and Finland.

About WhizzBang: WhizzBang is a European network focused on consumer and data protection, uniquely dedicated to representing the interests of expatriates—individuals living in an EU country different from where they were socialized. With offices in Frankfurt/Oder (WhizzBang Viadrina), Aachen (WhizzBang Meuse-Rhine), and Brussels, WhizzBang actively supports the EU single market and opposes national barriers, striving to ensure that consumers exercising their fundamental freedoms receive the protection and support they need.