EU regulators crack down on concert, sports tickets sites

Afp
Thursday 16 September 2010 19:00 EDT
Comments
(Peter Kirillov)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Regulators attacked European web concert and sports ticket retailers on Thursday, the latest online sector to fall foul of consumer rules.

After airline ticket sales and online electronic goods stores, the middle-men who sell seats and packages for top concerts or football matches are now under investigation, the Europan Commission said.

Traders are now being probed by national consumer standards officials after six out of 10 web retailers were found to be in breach of rules.

Of almost 250 "problem" websites, three quarters gave "incomplete or misleading information about the price," glossing over hidden taxes or handling charges.

Almost as many advertised unfair terms and conditions, with the absence of on-time ticket delivery guarantees or refunds in the event of cancellations.

Nearly half also falsely claimed to be authorised representatives, Brussels underlined.

"The sweeps are working," said EU health and consumer commissioner John Dalli, who cited a sharp rise in compliance among sites selling electronics goods since similar sweep there last year.

Only 16 percent breached guidelines in 2010, whereas more than half were slammed last year.

Launched in May, the operation was carried out in 26 EU member states, plus Norway and Iceland.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in