Germany warns of fake online shops selling cheap air conditioners after heat wave

After a heat wave at the end of June, demand for mobile air‑conditioning units rose sharply in Germany. Consumer protection portal Watchlist Internet reported a surge of dubious online retailers promoting ultra‑cheap “revolutionary” cooling devices for €70‑140, often claiming advanced technology such as “space‑flight technology” and using fabricated media, AI‑generated videos and fake certifications. In most cases the delivered products are simple fans with little or no cooling capability. The watchdog advises shoppers to look for exaggerated performance claims, unusually low prices, foreign‑address imprints, and duplicated positive reviews, and to verify sellers through the consumer‑centers’ fake‑shop finder. If a non‑conforming product is received, consumers can pursue refunds via credit‑card charge‑backs or payment‑service buyer‑protection mechanisms.