The Authority for Consumer Protection and Competition Defense (Acodeco) has put on its Christmas gloves and kicked off its year-end operation, walking mall by mall, store by store, checking that no one tries to pull a fast one with deals, prices, and advertising during this period when people are shopping more than ever. The objective is clear: to ensure that laws are respected and that consumers do not walk blindly when looking for gifts, food, or home appliances. For this reason, officials will be on the streets for daily, nightly, and even weekend inspections, making it clear that December is no excuse for commercial laxity. The dates when the watchful eye will be most alert are: December 4, 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 22, 23, 29, and 30, especially in the country's busiest shopping malls.
What they found during Black Friday
In the previous operation, during Black Friday, inspectors conducted strong inspections in 373 establishments, detecting 58 irregularities. The most repeated issue was that many stores did not post the expiration date of the offer, which the law requires — and it's no minor detail, because you buy today and then the promotion no longer applies. This lack was repeated 42 times. Additionally, another 13 stores did not even have the price visible, forcing the consumer to guess or ask.
What are they checking now?
Acodeco is not only looking for phantom deals. They also supervise:
• Expiration dates of perishable products • Visible and real prices • Operation of scanners and scales • Compliance with warranties and sales conditions
If you are going to shop for Christmas, don't leave without this
The invoice is your best defense. Without that little paper, there is no claim. And before paying, read the exchange, warranty, and deadline policies. A new product has a mandatory warranty, and it runs from the day of delivery, not from the day of payment. If what you paid for cannot be delivered, you can ask for your money back without any hassle.
Tips to avoid falling into the trap
✔ Make a list and shop with your head, not with your heart ✔ Compare prices before you jump in ✔ Save invoices, packaging, and capture everything ✔ If you are not sure, DO NOT sign or give your card
