The court upheld the PLN 46 million fine for Canal+

The Court of Competition and Consumer Protection upheld the decision of the President of the Office of Competition and Consumer Protection and upheld the over PLN 46 million fine imposed on Canal+ and the obligation to return the money to consumers – the Office announced on Friday. The company was fined for violating the collective interests of consumers.

The decision on the penalty was issued in January 2024. The President of the Office of Competition and Consumer Protection found that the company's consultants were misleading Canal+ customers by saying that they were calling about a free gift, while the point was to sign a parallel contract. According to the Office, during such conversations they overestimated the standard prices of packages offered to new subscribers by up to 50%.

After the free period expired, the consumer had no opportunity to terminate the contract without paying a penalty and had to bear the costs arising from both contracts – noted the antitrust office.

Constructing sales call scripts in such a way that they hide the real purpose of the salesperson's telephone call with the customer and the actual costs associated with the offer is not allowed. All key elements influencing the consumer's decision must be transparent and honestly presented – emphasized the Office of Competition and Consumer Protection (UOKiK). (PAP)

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