Weekly Report, 2024-05-27 to 2024-06-02

During the week from May 27, 2024, to June 2, 2024, our Service Juridique handled a total of 15 consultations. The communication channels used for consumer consulting included both e-mail and video call, allowing for a range of interaction according to consumer preference and convenience.

This week, we primarily dealt with issues pertaining to banking and health claims (in Food). In the banking sector, eight consultations were conducted. Consumers queried about various issues, including unexpected fees, difficulties with online banking platforms, and misunderstandings regarding loan terms. In each instance, we assessed the information provided, explained the relevant regulations, and advised the consumers on possible steps to take, such as requesting detailed statements or submitting formal complaints to their banks.

Regarding health claims in food, there were six consultations. Consumers expressed concerns over misleading advertisements and incorrect nutritional information. We provided guidance on identifying authorized health claims versus misleading ones, and we outlined the process for lodging complaints with consumer associations or through specific complaint portals. In one instance, there was overlap between the two topics, where a consumer queried both banking and health claim issues within the same consultation. Each topic was addressed separately, ensuring clarity and comprehensive advice.

One consultation fell outside our scope, as it involved a matter related to real estate taxation, which is beyond our jurisdiction as an EU consumer protection agency. We informed the consumer of our limitations in this context and suggested they seek advice from a relevant authority specializing in taxation matters.

Throughout the week, none of the consultations resulted in issues that could not be addressed within our consumer protection mandate. All viable cases received appropriate advice, equipping consumers with the necessary information to pursue their claims or rectify their issues.

This week counseling was provided by WhizzBang Viadrina.

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.