So far in 2026, the Consumer Protection and Competition Authority (Acodeco) registered over 2000 complaints representing a combined economic value in the millions of dollars. The vast majority of these monetary losses were concentrated in the real estate (housing), automotive, and department store sectors.
By Sept 2026, the agency launched 3,998 formal investigations to investigate widespread commercial irregularities.
Acodeco investigated 367 cases through September regarding businesses refusing legally mandated discounts (Law 6 of 1987) for retirees, pensioners, and older adults, resulting in 41 financial sanctions for traditional restaurants and fast food franchises. Other violations included charging prices different from those advertised, misleading or false advertising, the failure to provide receipts, the sale of expired products and dealerships breaching vehicle warranties on both new and used cars.
The ACODECO Official Mobile App is launching on November 15, 2026, according to the agency. The app allow users to report complaints directly from their cell phones. The tool will be available for Android and iOS devices. The agency maintains customer service channels through its website and the 24-hour Citizen Service Center 311. With its mobile application, the institution aims to make its services more accessible to the public and expedite the filing of complaints and the tracking of cases.
Key Features of the New App
Reports go straight to a contact center where an AI system reviews and verifies if submissions meet the required parameters.
You can take photos, submit invoices, and scan QR codes directly from their mobile devices.
You can track your complaints and receive notifications as cases progress or resolve.
You can view nearby commercial establishments on a map and check ratings.
You verify your identity using your national ID card to protect the process.
Acodeco recommends that consumers keep receipts, photos, and other documents that support their complaints, in addition to providing accurate information such as the name and location of the establishment, the date and time of the incident, and a clear description of the situation.
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