CUSTOMER RIGHTS
Several rights have been put in place to protect customers, especially those purchasing goods online in the European Union. However, the European Union consumer law can only protect an individual when they buy products from registered companies and traders based in the EU. These rights are significant as they ensure information asymmetry as well as reduce the exploitation of consumers. These rights are most important since they provide that consumers have the same rights and privileges regardless of where they decide to purchase their goods, either online or at a store.
There are several rights that European Union aims at protecting; some of the fundamental rights include the right to clear information, the right to a refund for non-delivery or delayed delivery, the right to repair faulty goods, and the right for a consumer to change their mind among others. Online consumers are entitled to information that is thorough which includes the features of the product, after sale services and guarantees if any, the delivery fees and taxes involved among others. This is the most important right as consumers can be able to make informed decisions. When a product purchased is also found to be faulty, under the EU law, the seller must offer a replacement or they should repair the product. Consumers can also change their mind and decide to return the goods within a certain period of time. There are a few exceptions regarding the right of withdrawal from the contract but once this right is exercised the trader has an obligation of refunding the consumer. There also has to be an agreed time within which the trade has to deliver the commodities, any delay or failure to deliver within the agreed upon period, the consumer is entitled to a refund.