UOKiK to use undercover purchases to combat e-commerce fraud

A new government legislative project (UC142) is set to grant the President of the Office of Competition and Consumer Protection (UOKiK) enhanced powers to combat dishonest e-commerce practices in Poland.

Under the proposed changes, officials will be able to conduct full control purchases using undercover identities. This 'mystery shopper' approach allows inspectors to use fictitious names, addresses, and private email accounts to order products. If a retailer attempts to deceive the inspector or refuses to honor statutory return rights, they could face severe consequences, including the potential loss of their web domain.