Regulator reveals threats against customer seeking refund
A Quebec-based fitness company has been accused of threatening to 'blacklist' a British Columbia customer who requested a refund, according to the B.C. regulator. The incident underscores ongoing challenges in consumer protection across provincial lines.
Details of the complaint
The B.C. Consumer Protection Authority stated that the fitness firm, whose name has not been disclosed, allegedly told the customer that seeking a refund would result in being placed on a blacklist shared among industry members. The customer had signed up for a membership but later sought to cancel and obtain a refund.
Regulator's response and consumer advice
The regulator emphasized that such threats are illegal under B.C. law, which prohibits businesses from using coercive tactics to prevent customers from exercising their rights. 'Consumers have the right to seek refunds under the law, and businesses cannot retaliate or threaten them for doing so,' a spokesperson said. The authority is investigating the complaint and warns consumers to be cautious with out-of-province contracts.
