Online retailers in Finland will soon have to make it easier for consumers to cancel purchases made over the internet.<\/p>\n
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From 19 June, businesses offering goods or services online must provide a dedicated cancellation function that allows customers to withdraw from eligible purchases directly through the same platform where the order was placed.<\/p>\n
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The requirement stems from changes to European Union legislation that are being incorporated into Finland’s Consumer Protection Act.<\/p>\n
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The reform does not change consumers’ existing right to cancel most online purchases within 14 days. Instead, it introduces a new and more accessible way to exercise that right.<\/p>\n
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According to Finland’s Consumer Ombudsman, online stores must ensure that the cancellation option is clearly visible and easy to use.<\/p>\n
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\u201cWhen you order goods or services online, the same service must also provide an easily accessible cancellation function,\u201d Consumer Ombudsman Katri V\u00e4\u00e4n\u00e4nen said.<\/p>\n
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The cancellation process could take the form of a dedicated button or another digital feature that enables consumers to submit a withdrawal request without unnecessary steps.<\/p>\n
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Businesses will also be required to provide confirmation once a cancellation has been completed.<\/p>\n
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The new function will not replace existing cancellation methods. Consumers will still be able to cancel purchases through traditional channels, including standard cancellation forms, emails or other written notifications.<\/p>\n
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The rules will also apply to financial services contracts concluded online where consumers have a legal right to withdraw from the agreement.<\/p>\n
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Consumer authorities say the changes are intended to address concerns about digital design practices that make cancellations difficult or discourage customers from exercising their rights.<\/p>\n
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\u201cCancellation functions are a welcome change because they help prevent interface designs where cancellation is hidden or turned into a complicated multi-stage process,\u201d V\u00e4\u00e4n\u00e4nen said.<\/p>\n
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The principle behind the reform is that ending a contract should be no more difficult than entering into one.<\/p>\n
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Authorities have also reminded businesses that the same standard applies to the termination of long-term agreements. Cancelling an ongoing subscription or service contract should be as straightforward as signing up in the first place.<\/p>\n
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For online retailers, the changes mean websites and digital sales platforms must be updated before the rules come into force later this month.<\/p>\n
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