Consumer association considers class action lawsuit against Vodafone price increase

The Vodafone price increase is currently affecting more and more customers in the cable and DSL network. However, this could be illegal. The consumer center is therefore considering a class action lawsuit if a correspondingly large number of affected parties come forward.

Is the Vodafone price increase illegal?

Vodafone informed customers about a price increase for DSL and cable Internet rates as early as the beginning of March 2023. However, the Federation of German Consumer Organizations (vzbv) considers an increase of five euros per month to be inadmissible and intends to prepare a corresponding class action against the price increase.

Those affected report price increases from 27.99 euros to 32.99 euros or from 32.99 euros to 37.99 euros. The operator justifies the increase among other things by increased energy prices for the operation of the networks.

According to the vzbv, it says: “The vzbv considers the price increases to be inadmissible. This also applies to the general terms and conditions, which are supposed to allow Vodafone’s actions. The consequence is that consumers:inside can object to the announced price increases.”

Central consumer office calls for online notification

Consumers should report the case online. If enough reports are received, the vzbv can take action against the price increase, according to the statement of the consumer center.

Then one could examine also the concrete cases and become active. The procedure is also likely to be closely monitored by the other Internet providers, because price increases are also considered quite likely here in the coming months.