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Consumer Protection in Lebanon: Online & Social Media Promotions Q&A

Introduction

In today’s digital age, businesses increasingly rely on online advertising and social media promotions to reach consumers. However, with this shift comes a heightened responsibility to ensure transparency, fairness, and compliance with Lebanon’s Consumer Protection Law (Law No. 659/2005) and Electronic Transactions Law (Law No. 81/2018).

This guide provides businesses with essential questions and answers, covering legal obligations, promotional practices, misleading advertising, consumer rights, data protection, and enforcement measures. Understanding these regulations can help businesses avoid legal pitfalls, maintain consumer trust, and foster ethical advertising in the online marketplace.

General Rules for Online Advertising

Are businesses required to disclose prices in online advertisements?

Yes, businesses must display prices clearly in all online ads. Article 5, 11 and 50 of Law No. 81/2018 mandate visible price disclosure to prevent misleading consumers.

Can businesses change prices after advertising them online?

No. Businesses are prohibited from selling goods at a price higher than the advertised amount.

Are discounts and special offers required to have clear expiration dates in online ads?

Yes. Businesses must specify the duration or quantity available. If unspecified, the offer is valid for one month.

Do businesses need approval before posting online ads?

No, but all advertisements must comply with consumer protection laws, ensuring accuracy and truthfulness.

Misleading & Deceptive Online Ads

What is considered “misleading advertising” on social media?

Any false or deceptive claim about a product’s quality, origin, pricing, or benefits that misleads consumers.

Can businesses make exaggerated claims without proof?

No. The law requires advertisers to provide evidence for claims if requested by authorities.

What happens if a business publishes false or exaggerated online ads?

Authorities can halt publication, impose fines, and require businesses to publicly correct misinformation.

What penalties exist for misleading online advertising?

Fines range from 10 million to 50 million Lebanese pounds, with possible imprisonment.

Can influencers promote products without disclosing sponsorships?

No. Influencers must clearly indicate paid or sponsored promotions to avoid misleading consumers.

Terms & Conditions in Online Sales

What key details must an online advertisement include?

Ads must specify pricing, product features, purchase conditions, delivery terms, and cancellation rights.

Are businesses obligated to issue receipts for online purchases?

Yes. Businesses must provide a digital or physical invoice detailing the transaction.

Can businesses alter contract terms after customers place orders?

No. Businesses cannot unilaterally change price or delivery conditions after accepting payment.

Are online transactions legally binding?

Yes, e-commerce transactions must comply with Lebanese consumer protection and electronic transaction laws.

Do businesses need to archive electronic contracts?

Yes. Businesses must maintain digital records ensuring contract transparency and accessibility.

Consumer Rights in Online Purchases

Do consumers have the right to cancel online purchases?

Yes. Consumers can cancel within 10 days, except in case of custom orders or used products.

What happens if businesses fail to deliver products on time?

Consumers can demand a refund or equivalent replacement if businesses fail to meet promised delivery dates.

Are businesses responsible for defective products sold online?

Yes. Consumers have the right to a refund, replacement, or repair for faulty goods.

Can businesses require customers to pay extra fees at checkout?

No. All costs must be disclosed upfront in ads and checkout processes.

Social Media Marketing Compliance

Must businesses disclose product risks in online ads?

Yes. If a product has potential health or safety concerns, businesses must clearly warn consumers.

Can businesses use before-and-after images without scientific proof?

No. Any visual claims must be scientifically verified.

Are businesses allowed to use fake customer reviews?

No. Publishing false testimonials or manipulated ratings is considered misleading advertising.

Can social media posts include hidden terms and conditions?

No. All key terms must be visible in the ad or a clearly linked terms page.

Data Privacy & Online Security

Are businesses allowed to collect and sell customer data without consent?

No. Consumer data must be protected, and businesses cannot share it without explicit consent.

What security measures must businesses follow for online payments?

They must use safe and secure payment methods and inform consumers of the applicable payment terms.

Enforcement & Legal Actions

Who monitors online consumer protection compliance in Lebanon?

The Consumer Protection Directorate oversees compliance and investigates violations.

Can Lebanon’s courts shut down a website for consumer protection violations?

Yes. Businesses engaged in fraudulent or harmful practices may have their sites suspended.

What recourse do consumers have against deceptive online ads?

They can report violations to the Consumer Protection Directorate, file complaints, and seek legal action.

Conclusion

The digital marketplace offers businesses unparalleled opportunities to connect with consumers, but it also presents challenges in ensuring compliance with evolving consumer protection laws. Lebanese legislation is firm on preventing misleading advertising, enforcing transparency, and safeguarding consumer rights in online transactions.

By adhering to these legal standards, businesses not only comply with the law but also build lasting credibility with their customers. Ethical marketing and transparent advertising are key drivers of success in the digital age. Businesses must prioritize fairness, accuracy, and consumer safety in all their online and social media promotions.

For further guidance or legal assistance, feel free to reach out.