Poland: Issued UOKiK ruling following investigation into Vectra regarding subscription fee increases

On 8 November 2024, the Polish Office of Competition and Consumer Protection (UOKiK) imposed a fine amounting to PLN 68'000'000 on mobile phone operator Vectra. Vectra has introduced clauses that allowed it to increase fees unilaterally in September 2022, citing factors such as inflation and economic circumstances. The same did not apply to reducing fees. These clauses were found to be ambiguous, leaving consumers unable to predict the increase in their bills. UOKiK found that contracts were adjusted within months despite inflation levels beeing foreseeable on the date where the agreements were signed. UOKiK ruled that fixed-term contracts should have stable pricing, and Vectra’s practices violated this principle. In addition to the fine, Vectra must refund eligible customers for increased subscription fees. It is also required to publicly announce the cessation of such contract clauses on its website and social media.