Fees misleadingly increased
The competition authority GVH has imposed a fine of 111 million forints (around 275,000 euros) on the telecoms operator.
The DIGI Group failed to communicate the conditions of two different fee increases clearly and transparently. This concerned the increase in subscriber fees from 1 January 2023 and the inflation-related fee adjustment from May 2023.
The company's business practices prevented consumers from gaining an objective picture of the impact of the tariff increases. In November 2022, DIGI informed consumers about two changes: an increase in the subscription fee from January 2023 and the automatic inflation-related fee adjustment, which was included in the GTC and came into effect from May 2023. However, the notifications were inconsistent and contradictory in terms of content. This gave subscribers the impression that their term commitment would protect them from both rate increases.
DIGI cooperated with the competition authority in the proceedings, recognised the infringement and waived its right to appeal. The company promised to refund any additional fees charged during the fixed term to the existing customers affected.
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