Latest news and stories about consumer rights in Portugal for expats and residents.
We buy products, hire services, and make choices every day. However, we do not always know the rights that protect us as consumers. On Consumer Day, the “Consumer Minute” explains some of the mechanisms that can help avoid problems when shopping.
An analysis of the future developments and trends in consumer rights legislation within Portugal.
Signing a credit agreement, subscribing to an investment fund, or renewing an insurance policy are actions that most Portuguese people repeat throughout their lives almost on autopilot. They rarely stop to ask: what can I demand if something goes wrong? This Sunday marks World Consumer Rights Day, which takes place under...
The constitutional consecration of consumer rights does not dispense with efficient action by the State, but also by the municipalities. Opinion by Pedro Machado
The European Parliament approved the revision of rules regarding package travel this week. The changes introduced cover vouchers, cancellation fees, and deadlines for filing complaints and receiving refunds. Consumers will now have the right to refuse a voucher and request a refund within 14 days; vouchers...
Third part of ‘Doa a Quem Doer’ for this Friday, March 13, 2026.
This week's 'Doa a Quem Doer' exposes two internet scams: orders that are never delivered and a fake fundraising appeal.
An informative piece regarding the rights of consumers on the occasion of Consumer Day.
The insurance regulator warns of the risk of older citizens taking out insurance policies for their children or grandchildren.
Despite growing reports from environmental organisations, multi-million euro fines, and the opening of an investigation by the EU, Shein continues to strengthen its presence in Europe.
It is common for insurance to be more expensive for drivers under 25 with a recent driving licence.
The digitalisation of customer support is making the system increasingly difficult to use, says Deco, arguing that human interaction should be the foundation rather than a residual option.
Fuel prices carry the weight of various parts of their respective value chain, which allow oil to be taken from its source, underground, to the car's tank. Learn about this journey and how it is reflected in fuel prices, knowing that the largest share usually comes at the end: the...
Deco warned this Friday, March 13, about the risks of digitising customer service, after negatively evaluating the digital support systems of 24 companies in essential sectors. The association assessed systems across eight sectors, including communications, energy, banking, and health, concluding that most companies rank between 'Poor' and 'Fair'. The analysis highlighted complex navigation, restrictive menus, and chatbots that act as screening tools rather than problem-solving aids. Deco argues that access to a human representative should remain the foundation of customer support, not a residual option, and suggests legal protections to ensure consumers can reach a human when requested.
An analysis of the legal framework and consumer rights regarding both physical and digital complaint books as essential tools for customer service.
The consumer protection association evaluated the digital customer support systems of 24 companies, and the majority were rated only between 'poor and fair'.
A study by the consumer protection association Deco reveals that digital customer support systems across 24 companies are largely inadequate, leaving consumers struggling to reach human operators or file complaints effectively.
The tragic case of a three-year-old girl who died of cancer in Brazil last year is being used in an online scam to solicit money.
Professor Eduardo Vera-Cruz Pinto, coordinator of the National Centre for Legal Innovation, highlights Portugal's high-quality academic training and cybersecurity expertise, while calling for better public policies, increased digital literacy, and greater autonomy for universities to address the evolving challenges of cybercrime.
A man told CMTV that the food was of poor quality, but could not guarantee it was spoiled. However, the Public Security Police seized two tonnes of food unfit for consumption.
Anacom verified that four of the models did not display the CE marking, and five lacked indications of type, batch or serial number, or other elements that would allow for identification.
Complaints regarding real estate mediation (mediação imobiliária) reached a historic high in 2025, driven by issues with property reservations and customer service. Many disputes involve the promissory purchase and sale agreement (Contrato de Promessa de Compra e Venda or CPCV). Those seeking housing should be aware of their rights when dealing with agents and ensure all reservation payments are properly documented.
If Storm Kristin has damaged your home, car or other possessions, act quickly and methodically to activate your insurance cover. First secure people and property, photograph and timestamp all damage, and make temporary repairs where necessary to prevent further loss. Notify your insurer as soon as possible, check your policy for cover, excesses and time limits, and keep a written record of every contact and expense. For vehicles follow insurer guidance about repairers and avoid admitting liability; for homes document building and contents separately and retain receipts for emergency repairs. Common mistakes to avoid include delayed reporting, inadequate evidence, disposing of damaged items, using unapproved contractors without consent, and agreeing on settlements without written confirmation—knowing your consumer rights and the insurer complaints process will help if disputes arise.
Seixal has moved to secure legal assistance for residents and businesses affected by recent power cuts that have damaged households, disrupted economic activity and impaired essential services. The municipality’s intervention aims to help affected parties understand consumer and utility law, gather evidence of losses and pursue claims or compensation, while scrutinising the responsibilities of suppliers and the adequacy of emergency responses.
