Bulgaria’s consumer watchdog has stepped up inspections ahead of Black Friday, targeting misleading discounts and online stores that conceal the true cost or conditions of a purchase. Electronics, clothing and footwear are among the products under scrutiny as November’s promotional campaigns gather pace.
The announced penalties distinguish between different infringements: proven false discounts can bring fines of €400 to €4,000 for each individual case, while established unfair commercial practices can attract sanctions of up to €50,000 per trader. These are the ranges cited in the watchdog’s warning, rather than fines already imposed in the current campaign.
Inspectors are comparing the reference price with the promotional price and checking whether advertising matches the offer’s actual terms. Raising a price before a campaign and then presenting the subsequent reduction as a major saving is one of the practices being examined. A large percentage on a banner is therefore only part of the information a shopper needs.
The commission is also warning about temporary fake shops that disappear after collecting payments. A recognisable-looking website or an unusually attractive deal does not establish who operates the business. Delivery charges, return arrangements and real contact details can be as important as the advertised price.
Consumers reporting a suspected false discount should retain the product link, the store’s details, the offer and screenshots showing the price and conditions. Comparing offers and checking the final cost before payment makes the complaint easier to substantiate if the promotion turns out to be misleading. The checks are intended to prevent deceptive sales as well as penalise established violations.
