The CCPA has imposed a fine of ₹1 lakh on Hogar Technologies, a walkie-talkie seller. Find out what important information was missing from its advertisement and which companies, including Amazon and Flipkart, have been targeted.
Walkie-Talkie License Rules: Walkie-Talkie company fined
When purchasing an item online, customers often look at its features. However, if a product's advertisement doesn't state whether a license is required to use it, customers could face difficulties. One such case is that of Hogar Technologies & Innovations LLP, a company that sells walkie-talkies.
The CCPA has imposed a fine of ₹1 lakh on Hogar Technologies & Innovations LLP. According to the authority, the company's website did not clearly provide the necessary information in its walkie-talkie ads and product listings. However, Hogar is not alone in this case; Amazon, Flipkart, Meesho, Meta's Facebook Marketplace, JioMart, IndiaMart, and Trade India have also been fined. You can learn more about this here.
What went wrong?
The CCPA investigation revealed that Hogar Technologies' website listing various walkie-talkie models lacked three important details: the radio frequency the device operates on, whether a license is required to use it, and the relevant approvals.
Now, due to the lack of this information, the customer may feel that he can buy a walkie-talkie and use it without any permission.
Is a license required?
Not every walkie-talkie requires a license. According to regulations, personal mobile radio devices operating in the 446.0 to 446.2 MHz frequency band may be exempt from licensing under certain conditions. However, regulations apply to devices operating outside this range. This means that when purchasing a walkie-talkie, simply checking its price and range isn't enough. Also, consider the frequency the device operates on and the permissions required for its use.
What did the company say in its defense?
During the proceedings, Hogar Technologies stated that it had a valid DPL and that its devices met the ETA certification criteria. The company also argued that its website was used to provide information and connect with customers, rather than for direct online sales. The website also lacked a payment gateway or shopping cart.
However, the CCPA did not accept either argument. The authority stated that simply having a license or other approval does not absolve a company of its obligation to provide information.
Action taken against Amazon, Flipkart, and Meta?
The CCPA initiated an investigation into the lack of mandatory information in the sale and advertising of walkie-talkies on online platforms. During this investigation, more than 16,970 listings were identified that lacked the required information. Subsequently, notices were issued to 13 e-commerce companies, including Amazon, Flipkart, Meesho, Meta's Facebook Marketplace, JioMart, IndiaMart, and Trade India.
The authority has so far issued orders against a total of 12 companies. Fines totaling ₹5.8 million have been imposed in these cases. Amazon Seller Services, Flipkart, Meesho, Meta Platforms, and Trade India have been fined ₹10 million each, while several companies, including JioMart and Hogar Technologies, have been fined ₹100,000 each.
