World consumer rights must include protections from online fraud and counterfeiting

​A call to action on World Consumer Rights Day, 15 March 2021

Back in 1985, the UN Guidelines on Consumer Protection introduced a new and somewhat revolutionary set of global standards for protecting consumers from potentially hazardous goods or services. 

30 years later, monumental changes in the global marketplace called for a much-needed update of the Guidelines. Among new provisions introduced in 2015, the Guidelines flagged the emerging risk of fraud to consumers shopping online, including the availability of counterfeits. 
But there is still much work to be done because online sales have grown to represent upwards of 15 percent of global retail sales and the value of counterfeits purchased online is over $300 Billion.

Consequently, #WorldConsumerRightsDay is an appropriate day to raise awareness! Consumers are entitled to an online shopping experience that is safe and secure from fraud. Online platforms connecting people and those that profit from commerce over their websites should be responsible, comply with the law and recognize the ethical responsibility to assure consumers a safe and trusted environment.  
TRACIT has been pleased to work with @UNCTAD Intergovernmental Group of Experts (IGE) on Consumer Protection Law and Policy and @OECD Committee on Consumer Policy to safeguard consumers new online risks.

Let’s start today, let’s work towards: 

1. Improve verification requirements of parties selling products on eCommerce platform 
2. Publish information on eCommerce suppliers to ensure that there is more transparency and accountability online.
3. Establish a new benchmark for contributory liability for selling counterfeit goods on behalf of third-party sellers
4. Implement a system that bans counterfeiters and prevents them from rejoining or remaining on the platform.

 
To learn more about TRACIT’s eCommerce and fraudulent advertising principles & positions, please visit: https://www.tracit.org/counterfeiting--piracy.html