{"id":147907,"date":"2026-05-27T10:00:00","date_gmt":"2026-05-27T08:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/?page_id=147907"},"modified":"2026-06-12T09:04:06","modified_gmt":"2026-06-12T07:04:06","slug":"section-33d-uwg-prohibition-of-geoblocking","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/competition-law\/section-33d-uwg-prohibition-of-geoblocking\/","title":{"rendered":"Section 33d UWG &#8211; Prohibition of Geoblocking"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-table-of-contents yoast-table-of-contents\"><h2>Section 33d UWG &#8211; Prohibition of Geoblocking<\/h2><ul><li><a href=\"#h-33d-uwg-verbot-von-geoblocking\" data-level=\"2\">Section 33d UWG &#8211; Prohibition of Geoblocking<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-geoblocking-im-eu-binnenmarkt\" data-level=\"2\">Geoblocking in the EU single market<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-geoblocking-verordnung-2018-302-der-eu-im-uberblick\" data-level=\"3\">Overview of the EU Geoblocking Regulation 2018\/302<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-33d-uwg-als-nationale-vorschrift\" data-level=\"3\">Section 33d UWG as a national provision<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-unzulassige-formen-von-geoblocking\" data-level=\"2\">Inadmissible forms of geoblocking<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-sperrung-von-online-shops-und-webseiten\" data-level=\"3\">Blocking of online shops and websites<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-automatische-weiterleitungen-ohne-zustimmung\" data-level=\"3\">Automatic redirects without consent<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-unterschiedliche-preise-und-vertragsbedingungen\" data-level=\"3\">Different prices and contractual terms<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-diskriminierung-bei-zahlungsmethoden\" data-level=\"3\">Discrimination regarding payment methods<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-zulassige-einschrankungen-und-ausnahmen\" data-level=\"2\">Permissible restrictions and exceptions<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-keine-pflicht-zur-lieferung-in-alle-eu-staaten\" data-level=\"3\">No obligation to deliver to all EU member states<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-unterschiedliche-angebote-bei-sachlicher-rechtfertigung\" data-level=\"3\">Different offers in cases of objective justification<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-besonderheiten-bei-dienstleistungen-und-digitalen-inhalten\" data-level=\"3\">Special features for services and digital content<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-rechtsfolgen-bei-verstossen-gegen-geoblocking-regeln\" data-level=\"2\">Legal consequences of violations of geoblocking rules<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-verwaltungsrechtliche-folgen-nach-33d-uwg\" data-level=\"3\">Administrative legal consequences under Section 33d UWG<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-bedeutung-fur-unternehmen-und-online-handler\" data-level=\"2\">Significance for companies and online retailers<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-anpassung-von-webshops-und-geschaftsbedingungen\" data-level=\"3\">Adjustment of web shops and terms and conditions<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-ihre-vorteile-mit-anwaltlicher-unterstutzung\" data-level=\"2\">Your Benefits with Legal Assistance<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-haufig-gestellte-fragen-faq\" data-level=\"2\">Frequently Asked Questions &#8211; FAQ<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-33d-uwg-verbot-von-geoblocking\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ris.bka.gv.at\/eli\/bgbl\/1984\/448\/P33d\/NOR40212417\" type=\"link\" id=\"https:\/\/ris.bka.gv.at\/eli\/bgbl\/1984\/448\/P33d\/NOR40212417\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Section 33d UWG <\/a>&#8211; Prohibition of Geoblocking<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Geoblocking refers to the technical or contractual practice of companies treating customers differently or excluding them from access to goods and services based on their place of residence, nationality, or location.<\/strong>  Typically, this occurs through the blocking of websites, automatic redirects to country-specific pages, different prices, or restricted payment methods. Within the European Union, such behavior is generally inadmissible if it concerns cross-border offers and there is no objective justification. The EU Geoblocking Regulation obliges providers to treat customers without discrimination, while Section 33d UWG ensures enforcement in Austria: violations of the central prohibitions of discrimination (particularly regarding access to online offers, contractual terms, and payments) constitute an administrative offense and can be punished with fines.  <\/p>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-container uagb-block-3019fe8e alignfull uagb-is-root-container\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-container uagb-block-32585033\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <strong>prohibition of geoblocking <\/strong>refers to the <strong>inadmissible disadvantage<\/strong> of customers in the EU single market based on their location, which occurs in particular through <strong>blocking, redirects, or different conditions <\/strong> and is legally sanctioned.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-container uagb-block-45819ab6\"><picture>\n\t\t<source srcset=\"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/\u00a7-33d-UWG-352x198.webp\" >\n\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"mr-picture-small\" src=\"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/\u00a7-33d-UWG.webp\" alt=\"Prohibition of geoblocking in Austria explained simply - Section 33d UWG\" >\n\t<\/picture>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n    <div class=\"mr-quote mrbg clearfix\">\n        <a class=\"mr-quote-person\" href=\"\/ueber-uns\/rechtsanwalt-peter-harlander\/\" title=\"Rechtsanwalt Peter Harlander\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"mr-quote-person-img\" src=\"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/themes\/harlander\/design\/ph100.webp\" width=\"100\"\n                 height=\"100\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Rechtsanwalt Peter Harlander\">\n            <span class=\"mr-quote-person-text\">\n            Peter Harlander<br>\n            <span class=\"mr-quote-person-function\">Harlander &amp; Partner Rechtsanw\u00e4lte<\/span>\n        <\/span>\n        <\/a>\n        <span class=\"mr-quote-content\">\u201eIn the EU single market, customers must not be placed at a disadvantage based on their location.\u201c<\/span>\n    <\/div>\n<a class=\"mr-cta-link mr-cta-button-cal\" href=\"#h2-booking\" title=\"Free initial consultation\"><span class=\"mr-cta-link-normal\">Select your preferred appointment now:<\/span><span class=\"mr-cta-link-bold\">Free initial consultation<\/span><\/a>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-geoblocking-im-eu-binnenmarkt\">Geoblocking in the EU single market<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Geoblocking contradicts the fundamental idea of the EU single market.<\/strong>  Within the European Union, goods and services should be freely accessible, regardless of the member state in which a customer lives. This is precisely where the prohibition of geoblocking comes in: <strong>companies may not disadvantage customers solely because of their location.<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In practice, this primarily affects online retail. Many providers previously tried to exclude customers from other countries or offer them worse conditions. <strong>H<\/strong>owever, this <strong>leads to an artificial division of the market<\/strong>, which contradicts the goal of a unified economic area. <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Typical problems in the single market arise when:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Customers are denied access to a web shop<\/strong>, even though the offer is fundamentally available<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>different prices are charged without an objective reason<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>certain countries are systematically disadvantaged<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The prohibition of geoblocking ensures that customers have comparable opportunities throughout the EU.<\/strong>  At the same time, companies retain a certain amount of leeway, for example regarding delivery areas or logistical decisions. The decisive factor is always: <strong>the unequal treatment must not be based solely on the customer&#8217;s location.<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-geoblocking-verordnung-2018-302-der-eu-im-uberblick\">Overview of the EU <a href=\"http:\/\/data.europa.eu\/eli\/reg\/2018\/302\/oj\" type=\"link\" id=\"http:\/\/data.europa.eu\/eli\/reg\/2018\/302\/oj\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Geoblocking Regulation 2018\/302<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The Geoblocking Regulation is the central set of rules at the EU level.<\/strong>  It has been in force since December 2018 and is addressed to companies that offer goods or services within the EU.  <strong>Its goal is clear: to prevent unjustified discrimination.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Geoblocking Regulation does not apply to purely domestic matters. It primarily takes effect when there is a cross-border element within the single market. <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The regulation specifies the areas in which providers must treat customers equally. It focuses primarily on three central points: <\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Access to online offers<\/strong> must not be blocked or restricted<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Contractual terms and prices<\/strong> must be designed without discrimination<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Payment methods<\/strong> must not be offered differently depending on origin<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The regulation does not oblige companies to deliver to all countries.<\/strong>  A retailer may restrict their delivery area.  <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-33d-uwg-als-nationale-vorschrift\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ris.bka.gv.at\/eli\/bgbl\/1984\/448\/P33d\/NOR40212417\" type=\"link\" id=\"https:\/\/ris.bka.gv.at\/eli\/bgbl\/1984\/448\/P33d\/NOR40212417\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Section 33d UWG<\/a> as a national provision<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Section<\/strong> <strong>33d<\/strong> <strong>UWG enforces the EU requirements in Austria.<\/strong> The provision does not create new prohibitions but ensures that violations of the Geoblocking Regulation are actually sanctioned.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The core of the regulation is simple:<\/strong> anyone who violates the central requirements of the EU regulation commits an administrative offense. The authorities can impose fines in such cases. <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Typical consequences of a violation are:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Fines <\/strong>by the district administrative authority<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Proceedings before administrative courts<\/strong> in the event of complaints<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>additional claims from competitors or customers<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>A milder approach applies to smaller companies.<\/strong>  In certain cases, the focus is initially on advice before a penalty is imposed. Nevertheless, the risk remains if companies do not adapt their systems. <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Section<\/strong> <strong>33d<\/strong> <strong>UWG makes it clear: geoblocking is not a trivial offense.<\/strong> Anyone who impermissibly disadvantages customers in the EU single market must expect concrete legal consequences.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-unzulassige-formen-von-geoblocking\">Inadmissible forms of geoblocking<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Not every form of different treatment is prohibited, but many typical practices are clearly inadmissible.<\/strong> The decisive factor is whether the provider disadvantages customers <strong>solely because of their place of residence or nationality.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The geoblocking rules primarily cover digital distribution.  <strong>As soon as a customer from another EU state wishes to access an offer, strict principles of equal treatment apply.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Inadmissible in particular are:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Technical or organizational measures<\/strong> that exclude customers from certain countries<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>different conditions without an objective reason<\/strong>, for example regarding prices or contract content<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Restrictions in the ordering process<\/strong> that specifically affect certain user groups<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The regulations apply regardless of whether the behavior is intentional or automated.<\/strong>  Even standardized systems or preset shop functions can violate the prohibition.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-sperrung-von-online-shops-und-webseiten\">Blocking of online shops and websites<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>One of the most common forms of geoblocking is the full or partial blocking of websites.<\/strong>  In this case, the provider prevents users from certain countries from accessing the web shop at all. Technically, this is usually done via the IP address or location data.   <strong>The customer then either receives no access or only a restricted version of the page.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Typical inadmissible measures are:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Blocking access to an online shop for foreign users<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Restriction of functions<\/strong>, such as no shopping cart or no ordering possible<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>targeted hiding of products or prices for certain countries<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Such blocks are generally prohibited if they target the customer&#8217;s location alone.<\/strong>  An exception exists only if legal regulations make a restriction mandatory.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For companies, this means: <strong>websites must be designed so that customers from the entire EU can, in principle, access them.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-automatische-weiterleitungen-ohne-zustimmung\">Automatic redirects without consent<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Many providers automatically redirect users to a country-specific version of their website.<\/strong>  This is precisely where another central prohibition comes in.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>A redirect is only permitted if the customer expressly consents.<\/strong>  Without this consent, the provider may not simply send the user to a different version of the page.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Particularly problematic are:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>automatic redirection to national websites without a choice<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>hidden restrictions through other language or price versions<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>difficult access to the originally requested page<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Customers should decide for themselves which offer they use.<\/strong>  A customer from Austria is therefore also allowed to use the German version of a shop if it offers better conditions.  <\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-unterschiedliche-preise-und-vertragsbedingungen\">Different prices and contractual terms<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Different prices or contractual terms are only permissible if they are objectively justified.<\/strong> The law does not prohibit price differences per se, but rather <strong>discrimination based solely on the customer&#8217;s location.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In practice, it often happens that customers from different countries see different offers.  <strong>However, it becomes problematic when customers are actively prevented from using a cheaper offer.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Inadmissible in particular are:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>higher prices only because of the customer&#8217;s place of residence<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>deviating T without a comprehensible reason<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>refusal to conclude a contract for an identical service<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>On the other hand, it remains permitted for companies to operate different websites with different prices.<\/strong> <\/p>\n    <div class=\"mr-quote mrbg clearfix\">\n        <a class=\"mr-quote-person\" href=\"\/en\/about-us\/sebastian-riedlmair\/\" title=\"Attorney Sebastian Riedlmair\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"mr-quote-person-img\" src=\"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/themes\/harlander\/design\/sr100.webp\" width=\"100\"\n                 height=\"100\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Attorney Sebastian Riedlmair\">\n            <span class=\"mr-quote-person-text\">\n            Sebastian Riedlmair<br>\n            <span class=\"mr-quote-person-function\">Harlander &amp; Partner Attorneys<\/span>\n        <\/span>\n        <\/a>\n        <span class=\"mr-quote-content\">\u201eEvery customer must have the opportunity to shop under these conditions, provided they meet the requirements, such as providing a suitable delivery address.\u201c<\/span>\n    <\/div>\n<a class=\"mr-cta-link mr-cta-button-cal\" href=\"#h2-booking\" title=\"Free initial consultation\"><span class=\"mr-cta-link-normal\">Select your preferred appointment now:<\/span><span class=\"mr-cta-link-bold\">Free initial consultation<\/span><\/a>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-diskriminierung-bei-zahlungsmethoden\">Discrimination regarding payment methods<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Providers must also treat all customers equally when it comes to payment.<\/strong> As soon as a company accepts certain payment methods, <strong>it must generally offer these to all EU customers.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The origin of the customer or their means of payment must not play a role.  <strong>This particularly concerns the location of the bank account or the state of issue of the credit card.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Inadmissible are, for example:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>rejection of payments from certain EU states<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>restriction of individual payment methods for foreign customers<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>additional conditions only because of the location<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The goal is a uniform and fair payment process in the single market.<\/strong>  Customers should have the same opportunities to complete a purchase regardless of their place of residence.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Exceptions are only considered within narrow limits, such as in the case of <strong>concrete security concerns or a lack of credit checks<\/strong>. However, these must be comprehensible and proportionate. <\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-zulassige-einschrankungen-und-ausnahmen\">Permissible restrictions and exceptions<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Not every form of unequal treatment is automatically prohibited.<\/strong>  The law recognizes that companies must make economic and organizational decisions.  <strong>Therefore, there are clear exceptions to the geoblocking prohibition.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Important: <strong>the restriction must not be based solely on the customer&#8217;s origin.<\/strong> There must be an objective reason.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Typical permissible scenarios are:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Limitation of the delivery area to certain countries<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>different prices due to taxes or shipping costs<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>adjustment of offers to the legal requirements of individual states<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>A central point is the lack of an obligation to deliver to other EU states.<\/strong> A retailer does not have to deliver Europe-wide. <strong>However, they may not prevent customers from buying under the same conditions<\/strong> if the customers organize a suitable solution for the delivery themselves.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-keine-pflicht-zur-lieferung-in-alle-eu-staaten\">No obligation to deliver to all EU member states<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The geoblocking prohibition does not mean that companies must deliver Europe-wide.<\/strong>  Retailers may decide for themselves to which countries they ship their goods.  <strong>This entrepreneurial freedom remains fully intact.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, the distinction is important: <strong>the decision regarding the delivery area is permitted, but discrimination against customers is not.<\/strong> A provider may therefore say that they only deliver within Austria. <strong>However, they may not refuse the purchase to a foreign customer<\/strong> if that customer provides an Austrian delivery address.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Typical permissible arrangements are:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Restriction of shipping to certain countries or regions<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>collection of the goods at the company&#8217;s location<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>organization of the delivery by the customer themselves<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>For companies, this means clear rules of the game.<\/strong> Logistics may be restricted, <strong>but access to the purchase must not be blocked.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-unterschiedliche-angebote-bei-sachlicher-rechtfertigung\">Different offers in cases of objective justification<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Different offers are permissible if there is an objective reason.<\/strong> The law does not require complete equality, but rather <strong>a comprehensible and fair differentiation.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In practice, economic and legal factors play a major role.  <strong>Companies may adjust their prices and services to external framework conditions.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Permissible reasons can be:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>different tax rates in the EU states<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>deviating shipping costs or logistical efforts<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>national legal requirements or market conditions<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The connection with an objective factor is always decisive.<\/strong>  As soon as the unequal treatment is based only on the place of residence or nationality, it becomes inadmissible.<\/p>\n    <div class=\"mr-quote mrbg clearfix\">\n        <a class=\"mr-quote-person\" href=\"\/ueber-uns\/rechtsanwalt-peter-harlander\/\" title=\"Rechtsanwalt Peter Harlander\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"mr-quote-person-img\" src=\"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/themes\/harlander\/design\/ph100.webp\" width=\"100\"\n                 height=\"100\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Rechtsanwalt Peter Harlander\">\n            <span class=\"mr-quote-person-text\">\n            Peter Harlander<br>\n            <span class=\"mr-quote-person-function\">Harlander &amp; Partner Rechtsanw\u00e4lte<\/span>\n        <\/span>\n        <\/a>\n        <span class=\"mr-quote-content\">\u201eDifferentiation is permitted, discrimination is not.  \u201c<\/span>\n    <\/div>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-besonderheiten-bei-dienstleistungen-und-digitalen-inhalten\">Special features for services and digital content<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Not all services fall fully under the geoblocking prohibition.<\/strong>  Especially in the digital sector, special rules apply that surprise many users. An important point concerns <strong>copyright-protected content<\/strong> such as streaming services. These are often subject to other legal requirements.    <strong>Therefore, restrictions may continue to exist here.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Typical particularities are:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Streaming and online content are subject to their own regulations<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>some sectors are excluded from the scope of application<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>access can be tied to licensing rights or usage areas<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In addition, so-called portability within the EU applies.<\/strong>  Users may also use certain digital content abroad if they have lawfully subscribed to it in their home country.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For providers, this means: <strong>the legal assessment depends heavily on the type of service.<\/strong> While classic online shops are subject to strict rules, <strong>differentiated requirements exist for digital content.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-rechtsfolgen-bei-verstossen-gegen-geoblocking-regeln\">Legal consequences of violations of geoblocking rules<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Violations of the geoblocking prohibition in Austria have two central legal levels: administrative law and competition law under the UWG.<\/strong> Companies must therefore expect <strong>official penalties and civil law claims<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-verwaltungsrechtliche-folgen-nach-33d-uwg\">Administrative legal consequences under Section 33d UWG<\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Anyone who violates the Geoblocking Regulation commits an administrative offense.<\/strong>  The sanction follows directly from Section 33d UWG.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Specifically, the following are threatened:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Fine of up to \u20ac<\/strong> <strong>2,900 <\/strong>by the district administrative authority<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Substitute imprisonment of up to two weeks<\/strong> if the fine is not paid<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ex officio proceedings<\/strong>, i.e., regardless of whether a customer actively files a complaint<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>A special rule applies to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs):<\/strong><br\/>Under certain conditions, the authority can initially proceed according to the principle of <strong>&#8220;advice instead of punishment&#8221;<\/strong> and set a deadline for rectification.<\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-bedeutung-fur-unternehmen-und-online-handler\">Significance for companies and online retailers<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>For companies, the geoblocking prohibition has direct practical significance.<\/strong>  Especially in online retail, the rules affect almost all processes, from the web shop to payment processing.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Many violations do not arise intentionally, but through technical presets or outdated systems.<\/strong>  Therefore, regular review is crucial.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Particularly relevant are:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Web shop systems with automatic country recognition<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>country-specific price or offer structures<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>payment systems with restricted functions<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Companies must actively adapt their processes.<\/strong>  Only in this way can it be ensured that customers from the entire EU are treated correctly.<\/p>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-anpassung-von-webshops-und-geschaftsbedingungen\">Adjustment of web shops and terms and conditions  <\/h3>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The practical implementation of geoblocking rules takes place primarily in the web shop and in the T<\/strong>  This is precisely where most legal risks arise.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Companies should specifically check and adapt their systems.<\/strong>  This is not just about legal texts, but also about technical functions.<\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Important adjustment areas are:<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Accessibility of the web shop for all EU customers<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>uniform presentation of prices and contractual terms<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>non-discriminatory design of payment methods<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Even small details can be decisive.<\/strong>  An automatic redirect or a blocked payment method can already constitute a violation.  <strong>Acting early significantly reduces the risk and simultaneously strengthens customer trust.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-ihre-vorteile-mit-anwaltlicher-unterstutzung\">Your Benefits with Legal Assistance<\/h2>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Geoblocking rules seem technical at first glance, but have clear legal consequences.<\/strong>  Companies must check whether their web shop, their payment processing, their T, or their distribution agreements impermissibly disadvantage customers from other EU states. Even an automatic redirect, a blocked payment method, or a rejected purchase can trigger legal problems. <\/p>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Legal support helps to identify risks early and avoid expensive consequences.<\/strong>  This is particularly important for operators of online shops, platforms, and distribution structures with customers from several EU states.<\/p>\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Legally secure review<\/strong> of web shop, TCs, payment methods, and delivery conditions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Avoidance of administrative fines<\/strong> under Section 33d UWG and potential UWG claims.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Clear recommendations for action<\/strong> if customers, competitors, or authorities allege geoblocking.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n    <div class=\"mr-quote mrbg clearfix\">\n        <a class=\"mr-quote-person\" href=\"\/en\/about-us\/sebastian-riedlmair\/\" title=\"Attorney Sebastian Riedlmair\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"mr-quote-person-img\" src=\"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/themes\/harlander\/design\/sr100.webp\" width=\"100\"\n                 height=\"100\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Attorney Sebastian Riedlmair\">\n            <span class=\"mr-quote-person-text\">\n            Sebastian Riedlmair<br>\n            <span class=\"mr-quote-person-function\">Harlander &amp; Partner Attorneys<\/span>\n        <\/span>\n        <\/a>\n        <span class=\"mr-quote-content\">\u201eThis is how you ensure that your company complies with geoblocking regulations and remains on the safe side legally.\u201c<\/span>\n    <\/div>\n<a class=\"mr-cta-link mr-cta-button-cal\" href=\"#h2-booking\" title=\"Free initial consultation\"><span class=\"mr-cta-link-normal\">Select your preferred appointment now:<\/span><span class=\"mr-cta-link-bold\">Free initial consultation<\/span><\/a>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-haufig-gestellte-fragen-faq\">Frequently Asked Questions &#8211; FAQ<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq uagb-faq__outer-wrap uagb-block-972c8b74 uagb-faq-icon-row uagb-faq-layout-accordion uagb-faq-expand-first-true uagb-faq-inactive-other-true uagb-faq__wrap uagb-buttons-layout-wrap uagb-faq-equal-height     \" data-faqtoggle=\"true\" role=\"tablist\"><script type=\"application\/ld+json\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/harlander-partner.eu\\\/en\\\/competition-law\\\/section-33d-uwg-prohibition-of-geoblocking\\\/\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What does geoblocking mean, explained simply?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Geoblocking means that a company treats customers worse because of their place of residence, nationality, or location. This can happen, for example, through blocked websites, automatic redirects, different prices, or restricted payment methods. \"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Is geoblocking prohibited in Austria?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Unjustified geoblocking is prohibited in the EU single market. In Austria, Section 33d UWG ensures that violations of central requirements of the Geoblocking Regulation can be punished as an administrative offense. \"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Does an online retailer have to deliver to all EU states?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"No. A retailer does not have to deliver their goods to all EU states. However, they may not exclude customers from other EU states from purchasing solely because of their place of residence if they meet the conditions offered. \"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"May a web shop automatically redirect customers to another country page?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"An automatic redirect to another country page is only permitted if the customer expressly consents. Without consent, the originally accessed page must remain accessible. \"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"May a company offer different prices in different countries?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Yes, different prices can be permissible. However, disadvantage based solely on the customer's place of residence, nationality, or place of establishment is prohibited. \"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Does the geoblocking prohibition also apply to payment methods?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Yes. If a company accepts a certain payment method, it may generally not refuse it solely because of the place of residence, the payment account, or the state of issue of the means of payment.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What penalty is threatened for a violation of Section 33d UWG?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"According to Section 33d UWG, the district administrative authority can impose a fine of up to \\u20ac 2,900. Additionally, competition law claims under the UWG may arise. \"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"Why should companies have their web shops legally reviewed?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Many violations arise from technical settings, such as country filters, automatic redirects, or restricted payment methods. A legal review helps to avoid administrative fines and UWG claims. \"}}]}<\/script><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-faq01 \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-question\">What does geoblocking mean, explained simply?<\/span><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p>Geoblocking means that a company treats customers worse because of their place of residence, nationality, or location. This can happen, for example, through blocked websites, automatic redirects, different prices, or restricted payment methods. <\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-faq02 \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-question\">Is geoblocking prohibited in Austria?<\/span><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p>Unjustified geoblocking is prohibited in the EU single market. In Austria, Section 33d UWG ensures that violations of central requirements of the Geoblocking Regulation can be punished as an administrative offense. <\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-faq03 \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-question\">Does an online retailer have to deliver to all EU states?<\/span><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p>No. A retailer does not have to deliver their goods to all EU states. However, they may not exclude customers from other EU states from purchasing solely because of their place of residence if they meet the conditions offered. <\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-faq04 \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-question\">May a web shop automatically redirect customers to another country page?<\/span><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p>An automatic redirect to another country page is only permitted if the customer expressly consents. Without consent, the originally accessed page must remain accessible. <\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-faq05 \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-question\">May a company offer different prices in different countries?<\/span><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p>Yes, different prices can be permissible. However, disadvantage based solely on the customer&#8217;s place of residence, nationality, or place of establishment is prohibited. <\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-faq06 \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-question\">Does the geoblocking prohibition also apply to payment methods?<\/span><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p>Yes. If a company accepts a certain payment method, it may generally not refuse it solely because of the place of residence, the payment account, or the state of issue of the means of payment.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-faq07 \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-question\">What penalty is threatened for a violation of Section 33d UWG?<\/span><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p>According to Section 33d UWG, the district administrative authority can impose a fine of up to \u20ac 2,900. Additionally, competition law claims under the UWG may arise. <\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-uagb-faq-child uagb-faq-child__outer-wrap uagb-faq-item uagb-block-faq08 \" role=\"tab\" tabindex=\"0\"><div class=\"uagb-faq-questions-button uagb-faq-questions\">\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M432 256c0 17.69-14.33 32.01-32 32.01H256v144c0 17.69-14.33 31.99-32 31.99s-32-14.3-32-31.99v-144H48c-17.67 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.33-31.99 32-31.99H192v-144c0-17.69 14.33-32.01 32-32.01s32 14.32 32 32.01v144h144C417.7 224 432 238.3 432 256z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-icon-active uagb-faq-icon-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox= \"0 0 448 512\"><path d=\"M400 288h-352c-17.69 0-32-14.32-32-32.01s14.31-31.99 32-31.99h352c17.69 0 32 14.3 32 31.99S417.7 288 400 288z\"><\/path><\/svg>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"uagb-question\">Why should companies have their web shops legally reviewed?<\/span><\/div><div class=\"uagb-faq-content\"><p>Many violations arise from technical settings, such as country filters, automatic redirects, or restricted payment methods. A legal review helps to avoid administrative fines and UWG claims. <\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><a class=\"mr-cta-link mr-cta-button-cal\" href=\"#h2-booking\" title=\"Free initial consultation\"><span class=\"mr-cta-link-normal\">Select your preferred appointment now:<\/span><span class=\"mr-cta-link-bold\">Free initial consultation<\/span><\/a>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Section 33d UWG &#8211; Prohibition of Geoblocking Geoblocking refers to the technical or contractual practice of companies treating customers differently or excluding them from access to goods and services based &#8230;","protected":false},"author":111,"featured_media":147938,"parent":40255,"menu_order":58,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_uag_custom_page_level_css":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[339],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-147907","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-competition-law"],"acf":[],"uagb_featured_image_src":{"full":["https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/\u00a7-33d-UWG.webp",2048,1152,false],"thumbnail":["https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/\u00a7-33d-UWG-100x100.webp",100,100,true],"medium":["https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/\u00a7-33d-UWG-800x450.webp",800,450,true],"medium_large":["https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/\u00a7-33d-UWG.webp",2048,1152,false],"large":["https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/\u00a7-33d-UWG-1920x1080.webp",1920,1080,true],"1536x1536":["https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/\u00a7-33d-UWG-1536x864.webp",1536,864,true],"2048x2048":["https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/\u00a7-33d-UWG.webp",2048,1152,false],"336x":["https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/\u00a7-33d-UWG-336x189.webp",336,189,true],"352x":["https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/\u00a7-33d-UWG-352x198.webp",352,198,true],"woocommerce_thumbnail":["https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/\u00a7-33d-UWG-300x300.webp",300,300,true],"woocommerce_single":["https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/\u00a7-33d-UWG-600x338.webp",600,338,true],"woocommerce_gallery_thumbnail":["https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/\u00a7-33d-UWG-100x100.webp",100,100,true],"yarpp-thumbnail":["https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/\u00a7-33d-UWG-120x120.webp",120,120,true]},"uagb_author_info":{"display_name":"Elisa Wakolbinger","author_link":"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/author\/elisa-wakolbinger\/"},"uagb_comment_info":0,"uagb_excerpt":"Section 33d UWG &#8211; Prohibition of Geoblocking Geoblocking refers to the technical or contractual practice of companies treating customers differently or excluding them from access to goods and services based ...","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/147907","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/111"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=147907"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/147907\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":157884,"href":"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/147907\/revisions\/157884"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/40255"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/147938"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=147907"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=147907"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/harlander-partner.eu\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=147907"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}