Today we look into Geo-blocking.
Still a Thorn in Europe’s Digital Shopping Experience.
Imagine this: you’re ready to binge-watch a new show or snag a great deal online, but instead of access, you’re met with a virtual “Sorry, not available in your region” sign. Annoying, right? That’s geo-blocking for you—a practice that was supposed to be tackled by EU regulations back in 2018 but, as a recent audit reveals, it’s still creating headaches for European consumers.
The European Court of Auditors (ECA) just dropped a report that pulls no punches. Sure, progress has been made, but there’s a glaring issue—enforcement across EU countries is wildly inconsistent. Some nations hand out laughable penalties of €26 for violations, while others threaten fines in the millions or even jail time. That’s like trying to stop a storm with a paper umbrella in some places while wielding a sledgehammer in others.
What’s more, many consumers don’t even know their rights or where to get help. Traders aren’t off the hook either—they’re struggling with unclear rules and dispute resolutions. It’s a mess, and it’s leaving people frustrated when their online shopping plans hit a wall simply because of where they live.
And then there’s the elephant in the room: streaming services and TV content. These are still exempt from the rules, thanks to complex copyright laws. If you’ve ever been blocked from watching your favorite series because it’s not available in your country, you know the pain. The ECA suggests it’s time to rethink these exemptions, and frankly, they’re right. In a globalized, interconnected world, why should location limit your options?
The European Commission seems to get it. They’ve welcomed the report and hinted at tightening enforcement and expanding regulations. But words are easy—action is what matters. Consumers deserve consistent protections, whether they’re buying a gadget, booking a service, or streaming a movie.
As the 2025 review of the Geo-blocking Regulation approaches, it’s clear that the EU needs to step up. Fair access to goods and services isn’t just a perk—it’s a right in the Single Market. Let’s hope policymakers take these findings seriously and give geo-blocking the boot once and for all. After all, no one should be locked out of the digital world based on their postcode.