An online travel platform charged me wrongly.

What the Law Says

The Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act (CPFTA) protects consumers in Singapore from unfair practices by suppliers, including online platforms. If you were charged wrongly — such as double-charged, overcharged, or charged for services not rendered — this may constitute an 'unfair practice' under the law.

Under the CPFTA, it is unlawful for a supplier to engage in any unfair practice that misleads or deceives a consumer, or causes substantial injury without reasonable justification. This includes charging incorrect amounts without explanation or consent.

If the platform fails to resolve your complaint fairly, you may escalate the matter to the Small Claims Tribunals (SCT), which handles consumer disputes involving claims up to S$20,000 (or S$30,000 for motor vehicle claims). The SCT process is designed to be quick, informal, and low-cost.

You must file your SCT claim within one year from the date the dispute arose — for example, the date of the wrongful charge.

Statutory Text

It is an unfair practice for a supplier to engage in any conduct that misleads or deceives a consumer.

— Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act, s. 4 — Unfair practices

Statutory Text

A claim may be made to the Tribunal in respect of any dispute between a consumer and a supplier arising from the supply of goods or services.

— Small Claims Tribunals Act, s. 12 — Jurisdiction of Tribunal

What to Do

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