Browsing: Consumer rights

Two ordinary South Africans were left stranded with broken cars after car dealers refused to help. But when the dealers ignored the rules, the law stepped in.

The Housing Consumer Protection Act 25 of 2024 marks a turning point in South Africa’s housing sector, introducing a home warranty fund, strict builder registration, and stronger consumer protections. But with the law not yet in force, families remain exposed to unfinished homes, dishonest contractors, and broken promises.

The South Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg has sided with Carol Behane in a vehicle storage dispute, ruling that her Hyundai H1 must be returned without payment of storage fees after it was unlawfully kept.

A Superbalist shopper clicked on a 40% off Facebook ad only to find the discount didn’t exist. The ARB ruled the ad misleading, highlighting the need for responsible advertising.

Ster-Kinekor’s ‘unlimited movies’ promise sparks backlash after consumers discover hidden exclusions. The ARB rules the Morvies Club ad misleading, prompting changes to the subscription offer.

A Pretoria court has ruled that ABSA Bank and the Sheriff acted unlawfully by attaching a man’s bank account without proper notice, reinforcing that consumers must be informed before any enforcement action is taken against their property.

Woodford Car Hire’s insurance advertisement was upheld by the ARB, but poor transparency and unclear communication left a consumer with unexpected charges, highlighting the urgent need for service providers to be clear and honest.

MTN’s promise of a “free-to-use” router in its Shesh@ 600 offer has been exposed as misleading. A mandatory R553 fee sparked a consumer complaint and an Advertising Regulatory Board ruling demanding transparency.

Online convenience doesn’t mean giving up your rights. Whether you’re buying from a digital marketplace or gifting a voucher, South Africa’s Consumer Protection Act empowers you to demand fairness and accountability. Here’s what you need to know before you click.

A consumer complaint against Lingerie Dolls SA reveals deceptive marketing practices on Instagram. The ARB upholds the claim, exposing misleading “handmade” product claims.