Ken, Daniel & Henry Advocates reposted this
Consumer Protection Alert: Mogo Fined for Misleading Credit Terms Mogo, a prominent car logbook loan provider in Kenya, has been fined KSh 11 million by the Competition Authority of Kenya (CAK) for engaging in deceptive advertising regarding credit terms. The company claimed to offer loans at a 1.25% monthly interest rate, but investigations revealed that the actual cost of borrowing was substantially higher once hidden fees were included. This discrepancy not only caught borrowers by surprise but also breached consumer protection regulations to ensure transparency and fairness in lending practices. The CAK found that Mogo's marketing tactics misrepresented the true cost of their loans, leading consumers to believe they were accessing affordable credit when they faced much higher financial obligations. As part of the enforcement action, Mogo has been ordered to pay the hefty fine and amend its advertising to reflect the true cost of its loans accurately. Such corrective measures protect consumers from falling victim to misleading financial products. This development highlights a broader issue within the lending industry: the critical need for transparency and full disclosure in financial advertising. Consumers often rely on advertised rates to make decisions that impact their financial well-being, and misleading claims can result in undue financial hardship. Regulators like CAK play a crucial role in ensuring that financial service providers comply with the law and prioritize consumer interests over profits. Financial institutions are urged to take this case as a reminder of the importance of fair dealing and ethical practices. Transparent advertising not only fosters consumer trust but is also fundamental to a stable and well-functioning financial market. Companies must ensure that all fees, charges, and effective interest rates are communicated to potential borrowers, empowering them to make informed decisions. Consumers should thoroughly review all loan terms and conditions, ensuring advertised interest rates and all additional fees are clearly stated in the final contract. They should seek clarification or file a complaint with regulators if misleading practices are suspected. For lenders, compliance with consumer protection laws is mandatory—misleading advertising can lead to serious legal and financial consequences. Transparent and truthful advertising, along with accurate contracts, is essential. Financial institutions can build trust with consumers and avoid legal issues by prioritising ethical practices and full disclosure.