CCPA penalises Hogar Technologies for misleading walkie-talkie advertisements

The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has issued a penalty against Hogar Technologies for publishing misleading advertisements related to walkie-talkie devices, citing inadequate disclosure of regulatory requirements.

The authority found that the company's advertisements failed to include essential information necessary for consumers to make informed purchasing decisions. According to the CCPA, promotional materials must clearly specify operating frequencies, licensing requirements, and other mandatory regulatory details applicable to walkie-talkie equipment.

Walkie-talkies operate within defined frequency bands in India and their use is governed by the Wireless Telegraphy Act and Department of Telecommunications regulations. Consumers purchasing such devices without understanding licensing prerequisites or frequency restrictions may inadvertently violate telecommunications laws.

The ₹1 lakh fine underscores the CCPA's commitment to enforcing transparency standards among manufacturers and vendors. The authority has directed that all future promotional material for wireless communication devices must prominently feature regulatory compliance information to protect consumer interests and ensure legal compliance.

This action reflects ongoing efforts by consumer protection bodies to standardise advertising practices across the electronics and telecommunications sectors in India.