Code of conduct for fiber optic connections: Consumer advice center calls for stricter rules for door-to-door sales

Code of conduct for fiber optic connections: Consumer advice center calls for stricter rules for door-to-door sales

According to a report by www.hasepost.de, the Federal Association of Consumer Organizations (vzbv) expresses concerns about a proposed code of conduct from the Association of Telecommunications and Value-Added Service Providers (VATM) for the sale of fiber optic connections to front doors. The head of vzbv, Ramona Pop, emphasizes that voluntary commitments are not a sufficient solution for consumer protection and calls for clearer legal rules.

According to industry estimates, three out of four contracts for fiber optic connections are concluded directly at the front door. The subcontractors who move from door to door on behalf of the providers are paid based on the number of contracts concluded. Ramona Pop criticizes the fact that door-to-door sales often involve aggressive and dubious practices that lead to contractual traps. She therefore calls for stricter regulation and emphasizes that it is the job of politicians to better protect people from such surprises.

As a consumer protection and market development expert, it is important to analyze the potential impact of these concerns. If the required legal rules are introduced, this could lead to a slowdown in door-to-door sales of fiber optic connections, as providers would have to comply with stricter examination and approval procedures. This could in turn have an impact on the market share of fiber optic providers and potentially also on prices and contract conditions.

In addition, extending the cancellation period from 14 to 30 days and requiring consumer consent before door-to-door sales could encourage consumers to think more carefully about entering into contracts and to examine them more carefully. This could lead to a reduced number of ill-advised contracts, but also to an increase in demand for alternative distribution channels.

Overall, it is important to take into account the interests of both consumers and providers and to find a balanced approach to the distribution of fiber optic connections that ensures adequate protection for consumers but also takes into account the dynamics of the market.