Polish Regulator Accuses T-Mobile of Misleading Advertising, Reports Reuters

WARSAW (Reuters) – The Polish regulator UOKiK has accused T-Mobile Polska of misleading advertising regarding a free mobile data promotion, which could result in a fine of up to 10% of the company’s annual revenue.

UOKiK announced on Monday that the slogan "1200 GB free for a year" used by T-Mobile Polska is deceptive. The offer provides 100 GB of internet data each month for a maximum of 12 months, contingent upon consumers renewing the offer periodically for a minimum fee of 35 zlotys ($7.99).

According to UOKiK’s head, Tomasz Chrostny, "After reading the advertisement, the consumer should have a general, but realistic, understanding of the offer." He further noted that the promotional slogan might mislead consumers into believing they are receiving a one-time data package of 1200 GB instead of multiple smaller packages that require ongoing payments.

In response, T-Mobile Polska stated that the promotion was positively received by customers and that its structure aligns with standard pay-as-you-go offers. The company expressed willingness to enhance clarity in its communications if UOKiK deems it necessary, stating, "We are ready to improve it to ensure the satisfaction of as many customers as possible."

T-Mobile Polska also indicated that it would be submitting materials related to the promotion to UOKiK and expressed its commitment to collaborating with the authority to ensure the terms of the offer are unambiguous.