German consumer association warns Sony over "customer-hostile" PSN terms

Sony could face legal action in Germany after the Consumer Association of North Rhine-Westphalia (Verbraucherzentrale NRW) filed a complaint regarding the terms and conditions of PlayStation Network.
In a cease and desist letter reportedly sent to Sony, the Verbraucherzentrale NRW found three areas in which the terms and conditions of PSN were "incompatible with the law".
First and foremost is the "customer-hostile" policy regarding prepaid credit on the platform, which expires after 24 months if left unspent.
Additionally, the Verbraucherzentrale NRW has complained about the clause which finds parents accountable for any costs incurred by their underage children spending money on in-game purchases.
Finally, criticism has been levelled against Sony's policy governing a consumer's right of withdrawal. The Verbraucherzentrale NRW found that there is no indication that customers must explicitly agree to forgo this right when completing digital purchases.
The Verbraucherzentrale NRW confirmed that it will apply for a court order if the cease and desist is not heeded.
Sebastian Schwiddessen, an associate with multinational law firm Baker McKenzie said: "This is common practice. German consumer associations typically have deep pockets and pursue alleged violations until the highest possible court level.

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