FixitFaster.nl, a website offering downloadable instruction manuals, has ceased its debt collection practices and stopped recruiting new customers following intervention from the Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM). This decision came after ACM received hundreds of complaints from consumers in both the Netherlands and Belgium regarding undisclosed fees associated with the service.

Consumers reported being charged a fee of 30 euros without prior notification, prompting ACM to take swift action. As a result of discussions with ACM, FixitFaster.nl has removed the option for new account creation and has informed consumers who received debt collection notices that they are no longer required to pay these fees.

The owner of FixitFaster.nl has committed to adhering to consumer protection regulations for future websites, ensuring that consumers will be clearly informed about service details and associated costs. ACM's rapid intervention aimed to prevent further consumer harm and ensure compliance with consumer rights.

ACM has various tools at its disposal for addressing consumer issues and opted for direct confrontation in this case to facilitate quick adjustments by the company. The authority plans to monitor FixitFaster.nl closely in the coming months to ensure compliance with the promised changes. If issues persist, ACM retains the option to take further enforcement actions.

In 2024, ACM had previously confronted 28 companies regarding similar issues of inadequate consumer information. Follow-up checks indicated that most of these companies had made the necessary adjustments, demonstrating ACM's commitment to consumer protection.