During the week from 2025-09-08 to 2025-09-14, the Service Juridique engaged in a total of 16 consumer consultations. The communications were done through the channels available, namely mastodon and e-mail, with a relatively equal distribution between them.

In the course of these consultations, three instances concerned the topic of border controls within the Schengen Area, where consumers reported unexpected inspections while traveling. They were guided on the legitimate scope of such checks and the measures they could take in response, emphasizing their rights to non-discriminative treatment in this context.

Another significant area of concern involved the right to repair, raised in four consultations. Consumers were primarily advised on how to access authorized repair services and the obligations manufacturers have under current EU regulations to provide parts and documentation necessary for the repair of their products. These consultations were largely focused on empowering consumers with knowledge about their entitlements to prolong the life cycle of their goods.

We received two inquiries related to inadmissible health claims associated with food products. In these instances, the consumers were informed of the criteria that constitute valid health claims under EU law and the procedures to report false or misleading claims to the relevant authorities.

The subject of GDPR presented itself in five cases, with consumers seeking advice on data privacy infringements. The concerned inquiries were addressed by clarifying the rights consumers have over their personal data, the proper channels for lodging a complaint in the event of a violation, and how businesses are expected to comply with data protection laws. Guidance was also provided on the steps to take if a data breach was suspected.

One consultation was unsuccessful, as it pertained to an issue outside the EU’s jurisdiction, which did not fall within the scope of our consumer protection mandate. It involved consumer dissatisfaction with a non-EU product, for which we had no advising authority.

Through these consultations, the Service Juridique continues to fulfill its role in providing essential legal guidance to consumers, ensuring that their rights are maintained and properly exercised within the EU framework.

This week counseling was provided by WhizzBang Viadrina.