In a coordinated action known as a “sweep,” consumer protection authorities from 25 EU member states, plus Iceland and Norway, examined 356 second-hand online sellers. Their mission? To see whether these platforms were playing fair and respecting your consumer rights.
The results? Worrying. 52% of sellers may be violating EU consumer protection laws.
One of the most important rights EU consumers have is the ability to return most purchases within 14 days, without giving a reason. But according to the investigation, 40% of second-hand sellers failed to clearly inform buyers about this right.
In an online environment where we rely on photos and descriptions rather than seeing a product in person, this right is essential. Yet the study also showed that 45% of sellers did not properly inform customers about their rights when a product turns out to be faulty or different from what was advertised.
Used products are still protected under EU law. Sellers must provide a minimum one-year legal guarantee, but over half (57%) of the inspected sellers didn’t meet this obligation. That means many buyers risk being left with no support if their purchase breaks or doesn’t work properly, which undermines trust in the growing second-hand sector.
With more young people choosing second-hand shopping for environmental reasons, many sellers now imarket their second-hand items as eco-friendly—but are they really? The investigation found that of those using such messages:
These so-called greenwashing tactics don’t just mislead consumers—they also harm the credibility of online marketplaces that genuinely support sustainable consumption.
Transparency is key in any purchase. Yet 5% of sellers did not properly disclose their business identity, and 8% failed to clearly show the total price, including taxes. These may seem like minor oversights, but in reality they prevent buyers from making informed decisions.
EU consumer rights are protected by key laws:
And soon, there’s more on the way: A new Green Transition Consumer Directive aims to make product durability and repair options clearer, combat premature obsolescence and crack down on greenwashing.
The second-hand economy plays a vital role in reducing overconsumption and waste, making it a key part of the circular economy. But for it to truly work, consumer trust is essential. That means rights must be respected, and misleading or unlawful practices must be held accountable.
Consumer authorities are now expected to follow up with the 185 sellers flagged during the sweep. That could include asking them to change their practices—or even launching investigations where needed.
The takeaway is clear: while second-hand shopping offers big benefits for people and the planet, strong enforcement of consumer rights is crucial to ensure everyone—especially young, digital-savvy buyers—can shop with confidence.
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