Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the challenges consumers face in protecting their rights regarding prepaid consumption, particularly in sectors like education, fitness, and retail services, where issues such as business closures and refund difficulties are prevalent [1]. Group 1: Prepaid Consumption Issues - Prepaid consumption involves consumers paying upfront for goods or services to be provided later, but often leads to disputes due to businesses failing to deliver or going out of business [2]. - Consumers frequently encounter difficulties in obtaining evidence for their claims, as businesses control the contract texts and records of transactions, making it hard for consumers to prove their cases [2][3]. Group 2: Legal Framework and Consumer Rights - The recent legal interpretation by the Supreme People's Court provides guidelines for handling disputes in prepaid consumption, allowing courts to recognize consumer claims when businesses fail to provide necessary evidence [3][4]. - Unfair terms, such as those that limit refunds or impose penalties on consumers, are deemed invalid under the new legal interpretation [4][5]. Group 3: Recommendations for Consumers - Consumers are advised to keep thorough records of contracts, payment receipts, promotional materials, and communication logs to support their claims in case of disputes [3][6]. - A five-step approach for consumers to resolve disputes is suggested, starting with direct negotiation, followed by mediation, administrative complaints, legal action, and potentially reporting fraud to law enforcement [7][8]. Group 4: Collective Action and Precautions - Collective action is encouraged to reduce individual costs and improve efficiency in legal proceedings, with options for joint lawsuits available for groups of consumers [8]. - Consumers should exercise caution when selecting service providers, verifying their credibility through official channels and being wary of making large upfront payments based on promotional offers [8].