(07 January 2020) – Today, new EU rules for consumer protection in line with digital developments enter into force, as part of the New Deal for Consumers.
The new rules will ensure, among others, greater transparency of online marketplaces: it will become clearer whether products are sold by a trader or a private individual, and the submission of fake reviews or endorsements will be prohibited.
In addition, sellers will not be able to advertise fake price reductions, and price comparison sites will need to inform consumers about the ranking criteria.
The new rules will also enforce consumer rights: by ensuring compensation for victims of unfair commercial practices and imposing penalties in case of “mass harm situations” affecting consumers across the EU.
Member States now have two years to transpose the Directive into their national legislation.