Consumer protection: Broadcasting fee portal bruises almost 100,000 citizens

Consumer protection: Broadcasting fee portal bruises almost 100,000 citizens

The latest developments related to broadcasting fees have caused excitement. A website has turned out to be a trap for consumers who inquire about information about the radio fee. Tens of thousands of people could be affected and now hope for lost money.

broadcasting fee increased - consumers in the Zwickmühle

The broadcasting fee represents a painful topic for many citizens, especially after the recent increase in the contribution. In addition to the general living costs, people are faced with this mandatory payment. A move or a change in the bank details requires the report to the corresponding contribution service from those affected, which means that they often have to search for solutions.

Internet trap turns out to be costly

The Saxony-Anhalt consumer center has announced that the SSS software Special Service GmbH, which operates the website www.service-rundfunkbei.de, was warned for unfair practices. The accusation: Over 90,000 consumers paid around 29.99 euros by mid -July 2024, only to send their data on this apparently official page. However, this payment was not clearly and transparent enough, so that many people were tapped into the cost trap without informed.

illegality and unfair competition

In addition to the illegal obligation, the terms and conditions of the page are accused of lack of transparency. Until the adjustment of the conditions on June 28, 2024, the consumers had apparently issued invalid consent because they were not correctly instructed about their right of withdrawal. Consumer advocates see this as inadmissible practice and have threatened the possibility of a class action.

company reacts to the print

The warning has apparently already borne the first fruits: SSS-Software GmbH has announced that it will reimbursement. In particular, consumers who have become the first version of the terms and conditions in this predicament can assert their claims by email. This offers at least a few damaged hope for reimbursement.

conclusion: important teaching for consumers

The current situation clearly shows how important vigilance is on the Internet. Consumers should always check several sources before entering personal data or paying payments. It remains to be hoped that those affected not only get their money back, but also learn from this experience in order to be better prepared in the future against dubious offers. The association of consumers also indicates the dangers associated with further increases in GEZ fees and calls on to become active in questions or contradictions.

- Nag