Free Mobile Fined €2.2m for Deceptive Commercial Practices
Paris, December 2, 2024 – The French National Consumer and Fraud Repression Directorate (DGCCRF) has fined the telecom operator Free Mobile €2.2 million for engaging in deceptive commercial practices.
The fine stems from a complaint filed by the French Consumer Association (UFC-Que Choisir) in 2022, alleging that Free Mobile had misled customers with advertising campaigns promising “unlimited” mobile data and calls.
According to the DGCCRF investigation, Free Mobile’s advertising did not clearly disclose the limitations and restrictions associated with its “unlimited” plans. This resulted in customers being misled about the true nature of the services they were purchasing.
Specifically, the investigation found that Free Mobile’s plans:
- Were subject to a “fair use” policy: Customers who exceeded a certain amount of data or calling minutes were subject to throttling or additional charges.
- Excluded certain types of usage: The “unlimited” plans did not cover certain types of data usage, such as tethering or downloading large files.
- Were not truly available everywhere: The “unlimited” coverage was only available in certain geographical areas.
The DGCCRF concluded that Free Mobile’s advertising was “misleading, ambiguous, and did not provide sufficient information to allow consumers to make an informed choice.”
Free Mobile has admitted responsibility for the deceptive practices and agreed to the €2.2 million fine. The company has also pledged to modify its advertising to ensure that it is clear, accurate, and compliant with consumer protection laws.
The DGCCRF hailed the fine as a “strong message” to telecom operators that misleading advertising would not be tolerated. It urged consumers to be vigilant when evaluating mobile data plans and to carefully read the terms and conditions before making a purchase.
The fine sends a clear signal to the telecom industry that it must adhere to fair and transparent advertising practices. It also underscores the importance of consumer vigilance and the role of consumer protection organizations in safeguarding the interests of consumers.
Free Mobile : amende transactionnelle de 2,2 millions d’euros pour pratique commerciale trompeuse
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