It is known as the “Inform Consumers Act”, or the Consumer Information Act, and basically makes online sales platforms responsible so that, if they sell third-party products, they offer their customers information about those sellers, and an easy mechanism to file a complaint if the products are not of the advertised quality.
Has it happened to you that when you buy something online, on a recognized sales platform, you receive something totally different, or simply of poor quality, but it is impossible for you to contact the seller directly? If the answer is yes, you are not alone, the million dollar question is:
“Who are we buying from? So this act gives us as buyers information about the company and how to get in touch with them,” said Alvaro Puig, FTC consumer education specialist.
Puig refers to the Consumer Information Act and requires sales platforms that offer third-party products over the Internet to reveal crucial data from sellers to buyers.
In addition to allowing them to easily report any suspicious activity on the site, such as if they receive a product that appears to be contraband or counterfeit, or if it is different from what was shown in the photograph when ordering it, or if the amount they were offered, did not is what they received.
Also, if they receive a product that has already expired, or is deteriorated or used, or if they see that a seller is offering supposedly recognized brand products, at suspiciously low prices, since the Act also seeks to stop those who steal merchandise, to later sell it anonymously over the internet.
“Vendors were selling counterfeit, stolen, or used items when they claimed they were new,” Puig said.
The FTC will be in charge of monitoring that the sales platforms comply with this new statute and if not:
“They can fine them $50,000 for each violation of the law,” Puig said.
Internet marketplaces are also required to suspend sellers who do not provide their information.
If you notice any irregular activity, or can’t find the information that is legally required to be posted on a platform, you can report it to reportfraude.Ftc.Gov
This Act seeks to make transactions more transparent and for criminals to think twice before selling stolen or dubious merchandise, which could even be dangerous for the consumer.
