Consumer's Telegram September 2024

Insert of n. 70 - Editorial office: Centro Europeo Consumatori (European Consumer Centre Italy - Bolzano office)

TRAVEL

ECC Italy Provides Useful Information for Safe Travels also with Regard to the Protection of Privacy

When going on holiday, it is important not only to think about relaxation and fun, but also about protecting one's privacy. When staying in an accommodation, such as a hotel or B&B, it is common practice to ask for guests' identity documents. This obligation is required by law in many countries for security reasons and to comply with current regulations on guest registration. Accommodations must however also ensure that personal data provided by guests are treated securely and in compliance with data protection laws, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) as far as Europe is concerned. Consumers need to be aware of how their personal data is processed and what their rights are. In this regard, the European Consumer Centre Italy provides some important information and useful tips.


LEGALISATION

Tourists in Germany Cannot Legally Consume Cannabis

The European Consumer Centre Germany cautions tourists planning to visit Germany that cannabis consumption remains illegal for non-residents. Residents of Germany are allowed to grow up to three cannabis plants per adult in their household, join so-called registered cannabis social clubs, where they can receive cannabis and carry up to 25 grams of cannabis in public, under respect of some restrictions. However, these allowances are strictly limited to individuals who have been officially residing in Germany for at least six months. This condition automatically excludes tourists, new work immigrants, and first-semester students. There is thus still no legal way for tourists to buy, own, or consume cannabis in Germany. For further information.


FERRIES

Travelling with an Electric Car in Greece

Since April 2024, travellers using electric or hybrid vehicles need to comply with new rules when boarding ferries in Greece. In fact, in order to be allowed to board their cars, the batteries of rechargeable electric and hybrid vehicles must have a residual charge of no more than 40% of their total capacity. Drivers of electric cars intending to use ferries to reach the Greek mainland or an island will therefore have to be careful to comply with this new rule or they will be denied boarding. For more information on passenger rights when travelling by ship.

CASE OF THE MONTH
In December 2023, Mr B. ordered a cross-country skiing suit online from an Austrian company. After wearing it for the first time, the consumer noticed that the cross-country skiing suit showed signs of heavy use. He immediately informed the company of the defects by email and enclosed photos. At the company's request, the consumer returned the defective goods to the company. After some time, the same cross-country skiing suit was returned to Mr B. with the explanation that the defects were due to mechanical wear and tear and not a material defect. The repair or replacement of the goods provided for under the legal guarantee was refused, as was a refund of the purchase price. Mr B. then contacted the European Consumer Centre (ECC) Italy by phone. The ECC contacted the colleagues at the ECC Austria. They successfully intervened with the Austrian retailer: Mr B. was refunded the purchase price and was even allowed to keep the cross-country skiing suit.