BERLIN (dpa-AFX) - Consumers will find it easier to cancel online purchases in future. "Cancelling should be as easy as ordering on the internet: with just one click," explained Federal Minister of Justice Stefanie Hubig (SPD) in Berlin. The new cancellation button will apply to goods, services, and financial services.
Button must be clearly recognizable
Hubig announced an electronic cancellation button. "Concluding contracts with a click is already standard practice in many cases. This must also apply to cancellations." The plans serve to implement EU requirements. The Bundestag must approve them.
"The withdrawal function must be clearly legible and labeled 'Withdraw contract' or another equally clear wording," states the draft law. "It must be permanently available on the online user interface during the withdrawal period, prominently displayed and easily accessible to the consumer."
Changes to withdrawal periods
In addition, financial service providers will have to explain these better to their customers. Consumers will also be able to request direct personal contact when using online tools.
Until now, contracts for financial services could be revoked without restriction if the provider had failed to comply with statutory information requirements. According to the ministry, even minor violations were sufficient for this. In future, this will only be possible for a maximum of twelve months and 14 days after conclusion of the contract, provided that the customer has been informed of their right of withdrawal. For life insurance policies, a limitation period of 24 months and 30 days will apply.
Unlike in the past, consumers will no longer be able to request contract terms and conditions from companies in paper form. /hrz/DP/stk
