The FTC has recently addressed compliance concerns with technology companies’ warranty policies, issuing warning letters to ASRock, Gigabyte, and Zotac. These warnings are based on potential violations of the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a federal law governing consumer warranties, administered by the FTC. The agency has instructed these companies to reassess their policies within thirty days to align with legal standards.
A major focus of the FTC’s scrutiny involves prohibitions against companies placing stickers on products that suggest warranty coverage will be voided if the device is opened or repaired by anyone other than an authorized service provider. Such practices, the FTC argues, restrict consumer rights guaranteed under federal law. For example, Gigabyte’s warranty language was flagged for its statement that removing or damaging internal manufacturing stickers could render the warranty void.
ASRock also received criticism for a warranty policy that threatens to void coverage if products are tampered with, including opening the outer case or making modifications to internal components. The FTC’s warnings emphasize the potential consequences, including legal action, if these policies continue to infringe upon consumer protections.
Beyond the PC industry, similar warnings were issued to companies in the air purifier sector (aeris Health, Blueair, Medify Air, Oransi) and treadmill manufacturer InMovement. The FTC’s proactive approach underscores its commitment to safeguarding consumer rights and ensuring fair business practices across diverse product categories.