CONSUMER LAW | AGCM issues €6 million fine to Poste Italiane for unfair practices in mobile apps

On 9 July 2025, the Italian Consumer Protection Authority (AGCM) issued a fine against Poste Italiane for unfair commercial practices related to its BancoPosta and PostePay mobile applications.

AGCM found that during installation on Android devices, the apps required access to usage data stored on users’ phones, and blocked app functionality if access was denied. According to the Android system, access to usage data allows the app to monitor which other apps are used, how frequently, and collect additional information such as telecom operator, language settings, and other details.

The AGCM, concluded that this practice violated Article 20 of the Italian Consumer Protection Code due to a lack of professional diligence, and was aggressive under Articles 24 and 25 of the Italian Consumer Protection Code, constituting undue pressure on consumers. The Authority deemed the practice disproportionate to fraud prevention goals and not required by law, as claimed by the company.

Newsletter n. 109 – April 2025