Report: Web sites may be violating EU law

PARIS, Oct. 13 (UPI) -- Hundreds of Web sites based out of Europe could be facing legal action for possible violations of the current European Union consumer law, a study has found.

The European Commission-coordinated survey found that 217 travel or airline Web sites across the continent were found to have violated the international group's consumer regulations regarding Internet sales, The International Herald Tribune said Friday.

Current European Union regulations require all Europe-based groups to use clear and understandable language when detailing the costs and details of an online sale.

One EU official, who wanted to remain anonymous, said the companies would be facing legal action if they do not heed an initial warning from national authorities regarding the apparent violations.

"This is clearly a European problem which needs an EU-wide coordinated solution," the EU official said. "This is a brand new way of enforcing consumer rights."

The Herald Tribune said some Web sites have been accused of delaying the inclusion of any additional travel costs until the end of an online sale or not informing consumers of specific conditions associated with their purchase.