IrelandA trader used misleading advertising. Can I complain to the CCPC?
Yes, you can complain to the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) if a trader used misleading advertising in Ireland.
What the Law Says
The Consumer Protection Act 2007 gives the CCPC the power to investigate and act against traders who engage in misleading advertising.
Under Section 42 of the Consumer Protection Act 2007, it is illegal for a trader to engage in 'misleading commercial practices'. This includes advertising that deceives or is likely to deceive the average consumer, affecting their purchasing decision.
The law defines a 'misleading commercial practice' as one that contains false information, or omits material information, or otherwise deceives (or is likely to deceive) the average consumer in a way that affects their economic behaviour.
The CCPC is the statutory body responsible for enforcing this law — it can investigate complaints, issue compliance notices, accept undertakings from traders, and refer serious cases to the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Statutory TextA commercial practice is misleading if it contains false information or is otherwise deceptive, and causes or is likely to cause the average consumer to take a transactional decision that he would not have taken otherwise.
— Consumer Protection Act 2007, s. 42 — Misleading commercial practices
What to Do
Gather evidence (e.g., screenshots, receipts, ads, dates)
Submit a complaint online via the CCPC’s official website
Include full details: trader name, location, description of the misleading claim, and how it affected you
The CCPC will assess your complaint and may contact you for more information
If the CCPC finds a breach, it may require the trader to stop the practice, issue corrections, or face prosecution
Sources
Same Question, Other Jurisdictions
Germany
Canada
Australia
Singapore
European Union
India
South Korea
UK
US Federal
US-California
US-New York
JapanNot legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.