News - For Consumers

The EU is cracking down on apps and devices that alert drivers to speed cameras, preparing fines for companies distributing such services. This move aims to make it harder for firms to provide these controversial alerts across the Union.

EU customs duties on parcels rise to €3 from July, ending the €150 exemption to boost safety checks. BEUC warns consumers must not face unexpected charges, as importers are legally responsible for the fee.

EU's Digital Omnibus proposal to eliminate cookie banners is facing strong opposition. Germany and France, alongside Google, are lobbying against the measure that would respect browser tracking preferences.

The digital euro is clearing political hurdles: The European Parliament is paving the way for a new common currency. This is intended to compete against US payment systems.

Civil society groups launched "Make It Real," detailing concrete recommendations for EU lawmakers on fundamental rights and fair digital competition. The publication emerged from a summit in Brussels featuring prominent figures like Shoshana Zuboff and MEP Benifei.

Crédit Agricole launches “Paiement Mobile,” an iPhone app to replace Apple Pay, citing high Apple commissions. This makes Crédit Agricole the first French bank to offer a domestic alternative for mobile payments.

European Parliament votes for enhanced digital euro consumer protections, including free basic services and stronger privacy safeguards. The Parliament also reinforced cash acceptance, ensuring merchants cannot unilaterally refuse it.

EU Member States and Google block a plan to scrap cookie banners. The European Commission proposed automated signals to replace intrusive pop-ups....

The European Commission plans to close a loophole allowing Chinese brands to evade tariffs on electric vehicles. This move will impact sales of Chinese plug-in hybrids entering the European market.

Data protectionists warn of mass surveillance through 6G, as ISAC technology turns mobile networks into radar systems. They call for new rules to prevent fundamental rights risks and surveillance by the next mobile generation.

The Commission's Digital Omnibus proposal reopens the ePrivacy debate, impacting internet browsing choices. This analysis explains cookies, tracking, consent, and ePrivacy for everyday users.

EU Parliament approves US tariff deal, averting price hikes and preserving choice for consumers until 2029. A new EU safeguard clause protects against US trade pressure on consumer protection and digital rules.

130 million Europeans gain new payment system access. Wero and Alliance EuroPA ink deal for interoperable payments, boosting digital sovereignty.

BEUC urges the Irish EU Presidency to prioritize consumer protection in upcoming legislation, warning that digital simplification proposals risk weakening GDPR. The organization advocates for better enforcement of existing rules over rollbacks that may benefit non-European tech firms.

The European Patent Office and its partners are reforming patent examination. Artificial intelligence will be used to boost efficiency, quality, and worldwide harmonization.

Microsoft launches revised Teams location tracking amid criticism, promising greater control and data privacy for users. The feature aims to indicate office presence while addressing privacy concerns.

EU policymakers launch new workflow for secure chip design, keeping sensitive data within the bloc. Globalfoundries Dresden now manufactures Qualinx GNSS chips entirely within EU borders.

The German Bundestag passed its AI Act implementation law, appointing the Federal Network Agency as the central market surveillance authority. This marks a significant step in enforcing the EU's AI Act at the national level.

German survey tools using EU servers offer privacy-friendly alternatives to US-based platforms like MS Forms. Testing focuses on data protection for online surveys and voting.

EU digital regulations delay major tech services like Apple's Siri AI launch in Europe. However, 83% of EU consumers surveyed believe authorities should ensure AI and new tech respect EU rights and values.