During the week from June 17, 2024, to June 23, 2024, the Service Juridique conducted consultations on various consumer issues using multiple communication channels. The primary modes of communication utilized were e-mail, telegram, messenger, and mastodon. Throughout the week, a total of fifteen consultations were recorded, covering a range of topics pertinent to consumer rights and protection.

The most frequent issue addressed was the warranty on consumer goods, which accounted for five consultations. Consumers sought guidance on how to claim warranties on defective products, and they were advised to gather relevant purchase documentation and contact the seller directly to initiate warranty claims.

In four instances, consultations revolved around banking issues. These cases primarily involved unexpected fees or charges, and consumers were recommended to review their account contracts and statements. They were advised to formally dispute any unauthorized charges with their bank for a potential resolution.

Three consultations dealt with failure to provide mandatory information. Consumers reported experiences where sellers did not provide essential product details. They were advised to request the necessary information in writing and keep a record of all communications for further follow-up if the seller remained non-compliant.

In two cases, consumers reported unfair practices, such as exerting pressure during sales transactions. The Service Juridique counseled these consumers to document their interactions and submit complaints to potentially rectify the situation.

Another two consultations focused on pricing transparency, where consumers faced unclear pricing strategies. Here, the advice was to request detailed breakdowns of the pricing and compare these with standard market prices to ensure fairness.

Only one instance each addressed concerns related to pseudo medicine/health products and the right to repair. The former involved products with unsubstantiated claims; consumers were cautioned to verify the credibility of health claims through certified medical professionals. The latter issue centered around difficulty in obtaining repair services for electronics. Consumers were guided to explore third-party repair services that respected their rights.

No cases fell outside the scope of the Service Juridique, ensuring that all consultations remained within our focus on consumer protection within the European Union.

This week counseling was provided by WhizzBang.