CCPA notice to 6 e-commerce firms for selling wireless transmitting devices

According to the statement, the CCPA observed that these devices were being listed online without disclosure of mandatory licensing requirements; without valid Equipment Type Approval (ETA) or Wireless Planning & Coordination (WPC) certification details; without clearly stating that civilian possession and use without statutory authorisation is prohibited; and in a manner likely to mislead consumers into believing that such devices are freely purchasable.

“The omission of material information regarding statutory restrictions and legal consequences prima facie amounts to misleading advertisement and unfair trade practice under Sections 2(47), 18 and 19 of the Consumer Protection Act, 2019,” the ministry said in a statement.

The CCPA has directed the concerned entities to furnish details of procurement, import licences, invoices and regulatory approvals.

It has also asked these companies to share details about legal basis for offering these equipment for commercial sale; the number of units sold in last two years along with complete purchaser details; steps taken to discontinue such listings and prevent recurrence; and a complete list of similar radio frequency/wireless transmitting equipment offered on their platforms.

“Import of such restricted equipment is governed under the Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992 and applicable DGFT notifications. Such equipment is ordinarily permitted only to authorised Government agencies and law enforcement authorities, subject to statutory approvals,” it said.