Unfair Practices
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on Singapore Acts of Parliament, subsidiary legislation, and official government guidance.
Singapore National Law
What is this right?
The CPFTA protects consumers from unfair business practices:
- Misleading conduct: False claims about goods or services, bait-and-switch tactics, hidden charges, or deceptive advertising.
- Unconscionable practices: Taking advantage of a consumer's inability to understand the transaction (e.g., language barriers, high-pressure tactics on the elderly).
- Remedies: Consumers can seek a court declaration that a practice is unfair, and claim damages. The court can also void or vary the contract.
- CASE involvement: The Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE) can mediate disputes and has the power to seek an injunction against persistent offenders.
When does it apply?
- You are a consumer who has been misled or taken advantage of in a consumer transaction.
- Common examples: renovation contractors who overcharge, car dealers who misrepresent mileage, beauty salons using high-pressure sales tactics.
What should you do?
- Document everything — save contracts, receipts, brochures, advertisements, text messages, and screenshots.
- File a complaint with CASE (case.org.sg) — they will attempt mediation with the business.
- If mediation fails, file a claim with the SCT or the civil courts.
- Report egregious practices to the Competition and Consumer Commission of Singapore (CCCS).
What should you NOT do?
- Don't sign contracts under pressure — take time to read and understand before committing.
- Don't assume you have no recourse because you signed a contract — unfair terms can be voided by the court.
- Don't engage in online shaming before seeking formal remedies — this could expose you to defamation claims.
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