CPB NEWS

Consumer Alerts
and News

Stay informed with the latest updates on UK consumer protection laws, scam alerts, product recalls, and industry news to help safeguard your rights and make informed decisions.

LATEST UPDATES

All News & Alerts

Heathrow Drop-Off APCOA
Travel & Transport

Watchdog Victory: CPB Exposes Heathrow Drop-Off Flaw After APCOA U-Turn

The Consumer Protection Bureau has successfully intervened in a consumer complaint against APCOA Parking (UK) Ltd, resulting in the cancellation of an unfair penalty issued to a motorist at Heathrow Airport's Drop-Off Zone.

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CPB Welcomes Ofwat Abolition
Water & Utilities

CPB Welcomes Government Move to Scrap Ofwat and Overhaul Water Regulation

The Consumer Protection Bureau has welcomed the Government's decision to abolish Ofwat and replace it with a single, powerful regulatory authority for the water sector a long overdue reform for UK consumers.

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Consumer Trust or Corporate Control
Reviews & Trust

Consumer Trust or Corporate Control?

CPB has launched a formal public inquiry following a significant surge in complaints about Trustpilot the online review platform relied upon by millions of UK consumers. Are negative reviews being silenced?

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Silence From Checkatrade
Consumer Rights

Silence From Checkatrade Sparks Transparency Concerns

CPB has escalated its inquiry into Checkatrade after the platform failed to respond to a formal proposal for an independent audit aimed at strengthening consumer protection and verifying its trader vetting processes.

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Join CPB Membership
Membership

For Just 5 a Month! Help Keep Consumer Rights Independent and Strong

CPB is proud to announce the launch of our Open Membership Campaign a nationwide initiative to grow our movement and strengthen our independence in defending consumer rights across the UK.

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NEF Hijacked
Policy Alert

NEF Hijacked: When Politics Betrays the Poor

If the NEF becomes a political stronghold, the credibility of the State's entire social policy collapses. The fight against poverty cannot and must not be placed under the control of any political party.

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CPB Campaign Success Digital Markets Act
Campaign Victory

CPB Campaign Success: Government Adopts Tougher Consumer Protection Laws Under Digital Markets Act

CPB declares a major victory as the UK Government adopts tougher consumer protection measures under the newly reinforced Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act, following CPB's sustained campaign efforts.

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Credit Rating Agencies Watchdog
Finance

When the Watchdogs Bite the Consumers They Should Protect

UK credit rating agencies like Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion wield enormous power over consumers' financial lives. A CPB investigation reveals how these institutions can become tools that unfairly penalise legitimate consumer actions.

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Trustpilot Bitcoin Scam Fake Reviews
Scams & Fraud

How Trustpilot's Lax Policies Are Costing Consumers Millions

Bitcoin scams have become a breeding ground exploiting unsuspecting investors. Online review platforms like Trustpilot have played an unintended role by allowing unchecked and fake reviews to mislead potential victims costing consumers millions.

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CPB Demands Trustpilot Transparency
Reviews & Trust

CPB Demands Transparency in Review Practices

CPB has issued a formal challenge to Trustpilot regarding its review moderation processes, citing significant concerns about transparency and fairness. Despite multiple engagement attempts, Trustpilot has remained unresponsive.

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World Consumer Rights Day 2025
Global Rights

World Consumer Rights Day 2025: Consumers at the Heart of the Green Transition

As the world grapples with climate change and the cost-of-living crisis, World Consumer Rights Day 2025 calls for urgent action to empower consumers. The theme: "A Just Transition to Sustainable Lifestyles."

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Trustpilot Negative Review Removal
Reviews & Trust

Concerns Grow Over Trustpilot's Alleged Removal of Negative Reviews

Consumers are raising concerns over Trustpilot's review moderation practices, alleging that the platform selectively removes negative reviews potentially misleading the public and compromising its credibility.

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CPB Joins Consumers International
Global Rights

CPB Joins Consumers International

CPB is proud to announce its official membership in Consumers International, the world's leading consumer advocacy network. This milestone underscores CPB's commitment to championing consumer rights across the UK and beyond.

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Financial Ombudsman Watchdog
Finance

A Watchdog Turned Toothless Lapdog?

The Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) was meant to provide consumers with fair, impartial dispute resolution. Evidence mounts of systemic bias and decisions tainted by dependency on financial corporations leaving consumers betrayed.

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Asda Price Display Discrepancy
Consumer Alert

Price Display Discrepancy at Asda Store

In an incident at an Asda store in West Sussex, a vigilant consumer successfully challenged misleading price labelling highlighting the importance of consumer awareness and the power of asserting your rights at the point of purchase.

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ADGM Fines Wazim Nazir
Regulatory Win

ADGM Fines Wazim Nazir Following Action by Consumer Protection Bureau

In a major win for regulatory compliance and consumer rights, the Abu Dhabi Global Market Registration Authority has fined HSQ Holdings Ltd and director Mohammed Wazim Nazir for severe violations following CPB intervention.

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Refunds on Sale Items
Consumer Rights

Refunds on Sale Items: Know Your Rights

Sales season brings great deals, but do you know your rights when it comes to refunds? Contrary to popular belief, UK consumer protection laws may still entitle you to a refund on discounted items. CPB breaks down the facts.

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Service Charges in UK Restaurants
Consumer Rights

Service Charges in UK Restaurants

Are service charges mandatory in the UK? CPB explains your rights when dining out, including whether restaurants must clearly disclose fees and whether you are legally obliged to pay them the answers may surprise you.

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Counterfeit Goods Global Threat
Consumer Alert

A Growing Global Threat to Consumers and Businesses

Counterfeit goods threaten consumers and businesses worldwide, accounting for over 3.3% of global trade. CPB highlights the risks from fake electronics to unsafe pharmaceuticals and urges stronger enforcement to protect consumer rights.

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Spotting Fake Products
Scams & Fraud

Fake or Real? The Truth Behind Counterfeit Products

Counterfeit goods are a growing concern in the UK, deceiving consumers and harming reputable businesses. From electronics and designer clothing to cosmetics and pharmaceuticals being able to identify fake items is vital for protecting your rights.

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Black Friday Shopping Tips
Consumer Alert

Avoid Overspending and Protect Yourself from Scams This Black Friday

Black Friday and Cyber Monday offer exciting deals but also attract scams and low-quality products. CPB encourages UK shoppers to plan ahead, verify sellers, and avoid impulsive purchases that may lead to consumer complaints or regret.

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CPB Festive Season Advice
Seasonal Guide

CPB Advice for a Safe and Smart Festive Season

CPB wants to ensure your festive season is safe, joyful, and free from consumer complaints. During Christmas and New Year, sales are tempting but scams and financial traps are common. Follow our practical advice to stay protected.

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Are Trustpilot Reviews Truly Unbiased
Reviews & Trust

Are Trustpilot Reviews Truly Unbiased?

Online reviews significantly impact consumer decisions. Trustpilot claims transparency, but growing concerns about biased moderation are surfacing. CPB explores how UK shoppers can make informed choices when faced with potentially skewed ratings.

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Revolutionising Consumer Power
Global Rights

Revolutionising Consumer Power

Celebrated on March 15, World Consumer Rights Day highlights the global push for consumer rights and sustainable choices. The 2025 theme promotes accessible and equitable living without compromising individual needs.

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Delivery Scams Extortion Fees
Scams & Fraud

Breaking Free From Delivery Scams and Extortion Fees

Have you ever received a demand for money to release a parcel held abroad? This alarming scam is becoming increasingly common. CPB is raising awareness across the UK and helping individuals take action against exploitative delivery practices.

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