The Cypriot market is gearing up for Black Friday, with stores selling electronics, clothing, perfumes, airline tickets, and other consumer goods already announcing discounts. The rush is expected to be particularly strong this year as 28 November, Black Friday, coincides with the end of the month and payday for most workers, meaning wallets will be fuller than usual.
While many consumers are hunting for bargains on specific products or services, the Consumer Protection Service of the Ministry of Commerce is advising caution. Although misleading discounts appear to be less common this year compared to previous years, shoppers should still be aware of their rights and how to make complaints.
Fewer complaints so far
In the past, several cases of fake discounts were recorded, with consumers tracking prices for weeks and using screenshots to prove that certain offers were artificially inflated, said Savvas Savva, officer at the Consumer Protection Service. This year, however, only three to four complaints have been submitted so far.
The Service continues to monitor prices and investigate complaints, which can be submitted by phone or, preferably, through the website where supporting evidence can also be provided.
Where consumers can turn
If you encounter disputes with suppliers, misleading discounts, or any unfair practices, you can lodge a complaint:
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By calling 1429 for immediate guidance.
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Through the Consumer Protection Service website, where you can submit a detailed written complaint.
Fines for misleading discounts
In previous years, fines for misleading discounts have been significant:
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€79,000 in total in 2024.
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€135,000 in 2025, relating to 2024 complaints.
Fines can be reduced after appeals, but they remain substantial. In one case, a business was fined €100,000 for a misleading practice.
The Service monitors prices for 60 businesses and 50 products per business, covering a total of 3,000 items, to detect irregularities and potential misleading practices. Since late 2023, fines totalling €229,000 have been imposed for violations of the 30-day pricing rule.
How to know if a discount is genuine
According to the Service, the law requires that the “previous price” displayed must be the lowest price of the last 30 days prior to the discount. For example, if a product was sold at €80 during the past month, any discount must be calculated from that price.
Tips for safe shopping
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Buy only what you need, considering your financial situation.
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Compare prices and note them before the sales start.
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Don’t rush to purchase items just because they are on offer; check product details and reviews.
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Use online tools to compare prices and quality.
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Consider reliability of the seller and after-sales service, not just price.
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Set a budget to avoid impulse buying.
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Check the store’s return policy; physical stores are not obliged to accept returns unless they allow it.
Rights for online purchases
Many consumers regret hasty online purchases. European law provides a 14-day withdrawal period for most online purchases:
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Applies to distance purchases (internet, phone, mail).
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The consumer must inform the seller within 14 days.
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Notification can be as simple as an email.
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After notification, the consumer has a further 14 days to return the product.
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Return shipping costs may apply.
Exclusions:
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Personalised products
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Unsealed health or hygiene items
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Digital content already downloaded
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Airline tickets, hotel bookings, car rentals
Returning defective products
Products can be returned beyond the 14-day period if they are defective. Warranty rights are valid throughout the EU, even during Black Friday. If a product breaks or is faulty, consumers are entitled to repair, replacement, or a refund under European law. Shoppers should insist on these rights, as some retailers may attempt to deny them due to promotional sales.
If you are unsure about your rights or encounter difficulties with a return, the European Consumer Centres Network (ECC) offers free guidance. Contact ECC Cyprus at 22867177 or visit www.ecccyprus.gov.cy for support.