“五一”将至，请看这份消费避“坑”指南

Group 1: New Consumption Trends and Risks - The rise of new consumption patterns such as "blind boxes" and "super value packages" may conceal forced consumption tactics and potential pitfalls for consumers [1] - A report indicates that 79.8% of the health product market consumers are aged between 26 to 45, highlighting a shift in demographic targeting by marketers [2] - The market supervision authority has issued guidelines to combat misleading health product advertisements, emphasizing the need for consumers to be cautious and informed [2] Group 2: Live Streaming and E-commerce Challenges - In 2024, consumer complaints related to online shopping reached 18.625 million, with live streaming sales accounting for a significant portion of these complaints [4] - Common issues in live streaming sales include false advertising, product quality failures, and difficulties in returns and exchanges [4][5] - The Guangdong Consumer Council identified five typical pitfalls in live streaming promotions, urging consumers to be vigilant and report misleading practices [5] Group 3: Payment Methods and Associated Risks - New payment methods like "buy now, pay later" and "no-password payments" are gaining popularity but come with significant risks, including potential overspending and security vulnerabilities [8][9] - Complaints regarding "buy now, pay later" schemes have exceeded 10,000, indicating consumer confusion and potential credit risks [8] - Recommendations for consumers include being cautious with these payment options, reading terms carefully, and safeguarding personal information [9] Group 4: Cross-Border Shopping Concerns - The rise of cross-border e-commerce has led to a 78% increase in related consumer complaints, with issues such as counterfeit goods and poor customer service being prevalent [12] - Consumers are advised to choose reputable platforms and retain transaction records to protect their rights when engaging in cross-border purchases [14] - The differences in product standards between countries can complicate claims for refunds or exchanges, necessitating careful consideration by consumers [12][13] Group 5: Knowledge Payment and Refund Issues - Complaints regarding educational services have surged, with over 70,000 cases reported, highlighting issues like misleading advertising and difficulty in obtaining refunds [16] - Many consumers have encountered challenges with low-priced courses that do not meet expectations, leading to dissatisfaction and financial loss [16] - Consumers are encouraged to verify the credentials of educational providers and understand the terms of service before making payments [17] Group 6: Automatic Renewal and Subscription Issues - Automatic renewal complaints have become a significant consumer concern, with issues related to unclear cancellation processes and hidden fees [19] - New regulations effective July 1, 2024, require businesses to clearly inform consumers about automatic renewals and subscription terms [20] - Consumers are advised to keep detailed records of transactions and communications to support their claims in case of disputes [20]