On 17 April MEPs approved new rules to improve ranking transparency in online marketplaces and to tackle dual quality of products.

MEPs want to strengthen consumer protection by introducing collective redress and imposing more dissuasive penalties on non-compliant companies. The legislation also covers new scenarios where no EU law currently exists, especially in the online world as well as regarding the dual quality of products.

Stronger protection when buying online

When buying from an online marketplace, consumers will have to be clearly informed about who is selling the product or service and whether the vendor is a professional or another consumer. It should be clear from the outset where responsibility lies and which laws are applicable.

The so-called “New Deal for Consumers” will also ensure more transparency in online search results. Users will be made aware if the high ranking of products or services in search results is due to paid placements.

Consumer rights will also be strengthened in the area of “free” digital services, contracts for which no money is paid but which allow traders to use consumers’ personal data. Just as consumers can cancel online contracts for paid digital services within a fortnight, they will also be able to cancel contracts based on the use of personal data. This would typically apply to cloud storage services, social media or email accounts.

More: check how Parliament has improved your digital life and removed barriers to online shopping.