Know your rights as a consumer. Where can I report fraud?

The Consumer Protection Act is a compendium of information that every consumer should know. It clearly shows in what situations we can become victims of fraud. This applies to the purchase of various types of goods and services. Let’s check what you should pay attention to when shopping and where to complain to entrepreneurs.

What does consumer protection include?

Consumer protection is protection against unethical practices by companies. This is due to the provisions of the contract, as well as the possibility of returning the goods. From 2021, the business owner is also considered a consumer.

What are consumer rights?

There are several consumer rights divided into different types of categories. They concern both health, life, and information.

Protecting your health, privacy and security

The Constitution contains information on consumer protection. It refers to a situation that threatens health or safety. The product cannot pose any threat when used correctly.

Dangerous Product Liability

In case of damage caused by certain goods, the issue is regulated by the Civil Code. If the product was used in accordance with the instructions and was damaged, the consumer has the right to demand compensation. However, the Civil Code also speaks of the low harmfulness of the act. This applies to situations where the equivalent of the lost product does not exceed PLN 500.

Safe product

We have the right to know how to use the product safely. The packaging must contain instructions for assembly and proper use of the product. In addition, production information should include:

• statement of effects on other products;

• his appearance;

• information about the group of buyers for whom the product is not suitable (for example, children).

Privacy Protection

The constitution also contains information about the protection of privacy. At this stage, protection against unfair market practices is important. This mainly applies to direct sales outside the points of sale. The consumer can refuse if the seller interferes with him at home or at work.

Right to warranty

The consumer has the right to file a complaint and demand liability from the entrepreneur. This is usually used in case of a defect in a product or a poor-quality service. The reporting period for violations is two years. When submitting a guarantee/reclamation, the customer may request:

• receiving a new product;

• receiving refurbished old goods;

• receiving a refund;

• the possibility of withdrawing from the contract.

Ad abuse protection

Advertising that is contrary to the law or misleading the buyer is not allowed. This also applies to advertising that influences the gullibility of children. Another example given by offices is sending customers items they didn’t order.

misleading information

Misleading is the unfair imposition of a decision on the consumer. In the normal state, he may not accept. This is about:

• providing false information;

• providing reliable information, but in a way incomprehensible to the client;

• there is no information about the actual amount of the discount.

Food information

Food packaging must contain a number of relevant information. Be sure to include on the package:

• list of ingredients;

• information about excipients;

• Product weight;

• name of the company and address of the importer;

• country of origin;

• Instructions for use;

• nutrition information.

Where to report a violation of the law?

UOKiK deals with the protection of the rights of entrepreneurs and consumers. He checks the correctness of the work of companies and the correctness of the consumer in his claims. The agency’s twitter regularly posts information about new fines against entrepreneurs. In addition, consumers will find advice there in case of unfair practices used by companies.

If we need to check the work of a particular enterprise, we can contact the UOKiK in several ways. The Advice Department is available on 801 440 220 or 222 66 76 76. We can also write an email to [email protected] In addition, the site contains a form that allows you to find help directly in our city.