During the week of March 31, 2025, to April 6, 2025, the Service Juridique handled several consumer consultations through a variety of communication channels, including video call, Reddit, e-mail, phone, Mastodon, and Telegram. A total of 18 consultations were conducted over this period, addressing various consumer protection issues within our mandate.
Unfair business practices continued to be a significant concern, being involved in seven consultations. Consumers frequently reported instances of unfair contract terms and misleading advertisements. In these cases, consumers were advised to meticulously document their interactions and communications with the businesses involved, highlighting specific breaches of consumer law, and to consider pursuing claims through small claims court if necessary.
Banking-related issues arose in four consultations, notably involving concerns over unauthorized charges and lack of transparency in fee structures. Consumers were guided to request detailed transaction records from their banks and file formal complaints using the bank’s internal dispute resolution mechanisms. Additionally, they were encouraged to escalate matters to the financial ombudsman if satisfactory resolutions were not achieved at the initial complaint stages.
Pricing transparency was a point of contention in five consultations. Consumers frequently struggled with unclear pricing structures in service contracts. They were informed of their rights regarding receiving clear and comprehensible pricing information before entering into any contractual agreements. Consumers were also advised to request written confirmations of service prices and any additional charges, thus ensuring transparency prior to accepting services.
The topic of pseudo medicine/health appeared in three cases, with consumers expressing concerns over misleading health product claims not related to food. Consumers were instructed to check the legitimacy of claims against official regulatory body databases and to be wary of products lacking scientific validation. Reporting such claims to consumer protection authorities was also recommended to initiate broader investigations.
Border controls while commuting to or from work was the subject of two consultations. These inquiries focused on understanding the rights of workers experiencing delays or restrictions at borders. Consumers received guidance on valid travel documentation and were advised to document any specific incidents of unjustified border delays, which could be relevant for both individual action and broader advocacy efforts.
One consultation failed to meet our consumer protection criteria, as it dealt with issues beyond our jurisdiction, specifically concerning real estate taxation. The consumer was informed that this topic falls outside the scope of our mandates as a consumer watchdog, and they were encouraged to seek assistance from relevant taxation authorities.
The consultations took place through various channels, with e-mail and video calls being the most frequently used modes of communication, allowing for detailed and direct interaction with consumers seeking assistance. The Service Juridique remains committed to supporting consumers by providing pertinent legal information and advice within the confines of our jurisdiction.
This week counseling was provided by WhizzBang Viadrina.
