BEUC - The European Consumer Organisation

Together, the undersigned organisations, are sounding the alarm about the growing proliferation of scams on social media platforms. We call on the relevant EU and national authorities to ensure that tech platforms fully comply with their obligations under the Digital Services Act (DSA). We are concerned by the inadequate measures platforms have taken to prevent, detect and mitigate harms. Social media platforms have become major vectors for a wide range of scams.

30 September 2026 As Europe looks to boost innovation and competitiveness, what role does privacy play in building consumer trust and economic growth? Join us on 30 September for a presentation of the results of a new study on the economic benefits of privacy and data protection, commissioned by BEUC and carried out by Assembly Research.

The Irish Data Protection Commission has fined Google €403 million for its location-tracking activities and ordered the company to comply with the EU's GDPR within 6 months. This is an important decision, close to eight years after a series of complaints consumer organisations from the BEUC network issued against Google.

Consumer reality check report: how best to ensure support reaches consumers that need it Financing instruments such as grants or loans exist to help consumers renovate their homes to make them more energy efficient as well as more affordable, healthier, and comfortable. Yet, administrative hurdles and complex procedures often discourage or prevent households from doing so. Moreover, financial support is often insufficient or out of reach for many consumers.

As society becomes increasingly digital, consumers need a digital payment method that works for everyone. As a public way to pay (like cash), the digital euro can be built in the interest of consumers. Getting its design right is essential for the success of the project, so that it is attractive and used by consumers. This paper summarises BEUC’s recommendations for trilogue negotiations on the establishment of the digital euro Regulation.

Cash continues to be the most inclusive way to pay. It’s easy to use regardless of age or digital skills, and it’s the most resilient and private too. A BEUC survey found that 85% believe cash should be accepted everywhere at no additional cost. At the same time, access is declining, with fewer bank branches and ATMs available. Access and acceptance of cash must be guaranteed to protect consumer choice as it is seen as the only option to pay for many.

BEUC is looking for technical experts in the areas of Ecodesign and Energy Labelling to support European consumer organisations in the EU policy-making process. Experts will provide technical and scientific input into preparatory studies and draft measures discussed at EU level. Background: how does BEUC contribute to the Ecodesign process? BEUC is a member of the Ecodesign and Energy labelling group of experts called the "Consultation Forum”, as established under Directive 2009/125/EC.

Consumers want to save and invest their money sustainably, taking climate action while saving for the future in line with their values. However, the current rules for sustainable investment are very weak, allowing so-called ‘green’ products to invest in harmful activities like coal mining or oil drilling. Consumers end up being misled about their investment, which may be doing more harm than good when it comes to tackling climate change.

As of 31 July 2026, consumers will be able to use their phones, tablets, washing machines, or dishwashers longer thanks to easier repairs. Phones, tablets, dishwashers, washing machines, or vacuum cleaners can have a limited lifespan and break after a few years. Some of their components like batteries wear out, deteriorating products’ use. Most consumers tend to replace them once their use is impaired.

Consumer-friendly charging is instrumental for the mass adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). As well as binding deployment targets for public charging infrastructure, the EU’s Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR) includes important requirements on price transparency and payment methods.