The Swedish Consumer Agency (Sw. Konsumentverket) warns of rising telemarketing complaints in a new report, and calls for stricter rules, clearer information, and stronger protection for vulnerable groups, especially the elderly and those with foreign backgrounds.
In the report delivered to the Swedish government, the agency proposes a general ban on telemarketing in Sweden. As an alternative, the agency suggests an opt-in system, where only consumers who consent can be contacted.
The report highlights that:
- Consumer complaints are increasing about telemarketing, especially regarding unclear or aggressive sales practices.
- Unintended binding contracts are a recurring problem, leaving many consumers trapped in agreements they did not fully understand.
- Elderly consumers and those with foreign backgrounds are especially vulnerable and face higher risks of negative outcomes.
- Widespread avoidance of unknown calls means people also miss important messages from healthcare and authorities.
Click here to read the report in full (in Swedish only).
