Brussels, 13/06/2014 (Agence Europe) - On Friday 13 June, consumer rights enter the digital era, with the entry into force of the new European directive on consumer rights, which was adopted in October 2011. This directive reinforces consumers' rights throughout Europe, whether they make a purchase from a shop or online (see EUROPE 10471). In order to make sure that this directive is applied uniformly throughout the European Union, the European Commission has published a guidance document to be sent to the national authorities, which contains a model for the essential information to be displayed on digital products.
“As of today every consumer in the European Union can claim his or her rights under the Consumer Rights Directive, meaning: no more pre-ticked boxes when you buy a plane ticket, no more extra charges for paying with your credit card online and no more traders telling you that you can't return a good you bought online”, said Viviane Reding, Commissioner for Justice.
The guidance document is available online at: http://ec.europa.eu/justice/consumer-marketing/files/crd_guidance_en.pdf (AN)