Consumer Protection

This is the law relating to the protection of the consumers and consumer rights. Consumer protection law that includes the Consumer Protection Act (CPA) and before that the Consumer Protection Bill. Many people incorrectly refer to it as the Consumer Act.

As a corporate law firm, Michalsons focusses on helping organisations and businesses comply with the CPA, by reviewing or drafting terms, legal notices, returns policies and other services. In this way we ensure that businesses and organisations enhance their relationship with the customers by ensuring transparency and clarity.

We can also advise how the provisions of the CPA interact with the the provisions of the Electronic Communications and Transactions Act (ECTA).

Michalsons recommends that consumers in need of protection follow these steps., particularly when they are concerned with how they have been treated or should they wish to return goods.

You can read our advice, or about the products or services we offer related to the Consumer Protection Act in the area below:

Loyalty programmes and the law

Loyalty programmes are everywhere - freebies, added benefits and loyalty schemes. Loyalty programmes, credits and schemes incentivise consumers to stay loyal to certain brands, retail outlets, airlines, banks, cellular providers and many other suppliers of goods and services. As [...]

By |2026-05-12T21:24:27+02:00May 10th, 2026|Categories: Consumer Protection|Tags: , , , |

NCC opt-out registry is a crisis for marketers

The NCC opt-out registry is a crisis for marketers. The new direct marketing regulations under the CPA may be one of the most burdensome compliance obligations marketers will face in years. Marketers must register, pay ongoing fees and opt people [...]

The Consumer Protection Act (CPA) – a heads up

The Consumer Protection Act is a South African law that protects consumers from harm. It also creates significant compliance obligations for most businesses in South Africa. Read the practical implications and take action. The Consumer Protection Act came into [...]

By |2026-05-07T17:10:13+02:00March 7th, 2026|Categories: Consumer Protection|Tags: , , |

Returns Policy or Refund Policy in South Africa

Do you need a returns policy or a refund policy for South Africa? When can a consumer return goods or get a refund in South Africa? In this article, we examine the conditions under which consumers can return goods and [...]

Loot boxes in South African Law

Loot boxes are a popular mechanic in many video games. If you haven't been living under a rock for the past few years, you will have likely heard that Loot Boxes are quite problematic worldwide.  These items, often purchased with [...]

By |2025-06-09T22:47:54+02:00January 20th, 2025|Categories: Consumer Protection, Digital Entertainment Law|

How the Online Safety Act impacts game publishers

The Online Safety Act introduces significant obligations for game publishers, particularly those distributing games with online or interactive features. Understanding these requirements is crucial to avoid penalties, protect players, and ensure compliance. What is the UK Online Safety Act The [...]

By |2025-06-09T22:44:34+02:00January 13th, 2025|Categories: Consumer Protection, Digital Entertainment Law|Tags: |

How to Block Unwanted Calls, Phone Numbers and SMSs

Are you the target of direct marketing? Do you want to block calls from direct marketers or stop unwanted calls or SMSs selling you things? Direct marketing is the when goods or services are sold direct to the public rather than [...]

By |2025-02-25T16:22:49+02:00December 16th, 2024|Categories: Consumer Protection, Marketing Law, POPI and Data Protection|Tags: |

AI in retail: Use cases and essential considerations

In retail, staying ahead of the curve is crucial. AI has emerged as a game-changer, reportedly transforming how businesses operate and engage with customers. From personalised shopping experiences to efficient supply chain management, the potential of AI in retail is [...]

By |2024-08-26T21:31:41+02:00January 30th, 2024|Categories: AI Governance, Consumer Protection, Marketing Law|Tags: |

New levy on consumer businesses | Consumer Goods and Services Ombud (CGSO)

Have you received a letter with the subject line "Compulsory Participation in the Consumer Goods and Services Ombud" from Trifecta Capital acting on behalf of the Consumer Goods and Services Ombud? Did the letter tell you that you have to [...]

By |2023-06-15T13:37:16+02:00April 19th, 2020|Categories: Consumer Protection|Tags: , , |

Intellectual property in promotional competitions

You decide that as part of your new product, you want to run a promotional competition to promote it. You spend time trying to find the perfect prize and once you find one, you realise that you aren't sure if [...]

A Sale of Goods under the CPA

A sale of goods is never just about a supplier selling goods to a consumer, and simply applying whatever terms they wish to the transaction. The Consumer Protection Act (CPA) applies to these transactions and provides consumers with a number [...]

By |2025-09-22T12:03:49+02:00November 22nd, 2017|Categories: Consumer Protection|Tags: , , , , , |

Rental Housing Amendment Act brings changes

The Rental Housing Amendment Act 35 of 2014 is the latest amendment to the Rental Housing Act 50 of 1999. The Amendment Act introduces various changes that will impact the relationship between tenants and landlords. Many people do not realise the impact the [...]

By |2022-12-22T10:19:51+02:00January 13th, 2017|Categories: Consumer Protection|Tags: , , |