From 2025-02-03 to 2025-02-09, the Service Juridique provided consumer consultations through video call. During this week, a total of 18 consultations took place, with several overlapping issues being addressed.
In six instances, consumers sought advice concerning banking issues, primarily related to unexpected fees and changes in terms and conditions. Consumers were advised to carefully review their banking agreements and were instructed on drafting formal complaints to their banks if they suspected unfair practices.
The right to repair was discussed in four cases, where consumers faced difficulties in obtaining parts for self-repair of household electronics. In these cases, the consumers were informed about their rights under the current EU legislation, and were guided on engaging with manufacturers to request the necessary parts.
GPDR, or General Data Protection Regulation, concerns were raised in five consultations. Consumers were worried about unauthorized data collection and misuse of their personal information. The advice given entailed instructions on how to request data access from companies and steps to take if they suspected a breach, emphasizing the procedures to report such issues to appropriate data protection authorities.
Three consultations centered on travelers’ rights, specifically relating to package holidays. Clients experienced cancellations and were unsure of their rights concerning refunds or re-bookings. The consultations clarified the rights guaranteed under EU regulations, advising consumers on documentation to gather and present when negotiating with travel agencies for resolutions.
Pricing transparency was the topic of two consultations, where consumers expressed concern over hidden charges in online purchases. The advice offered included guidelines on what constitutes clear pricing information and how to proceed legally if they felt misled.
In one rare instance, the issue presented was outside our domain, involving questions on real estate tax implications, which the Service Juridique could not address, as it is beyond the consumer protection scope.
This week counseling was provided by WhizzBang Maas-Rhein.
