Thu Sep 12 03:50:42 UTC 2024: ## Consumer Watchdog Overwhelmed by Complaints as Private Tutoring Firm Collapses

Hong Kong’s consumer watchdog, the Consumer Council, is facing its largest ever case after a private tutoring firm went under, leaving thousands of customers in the lurch. The firm, which has not been named, is accused of taking prepayments from students for private classes and memberships, totalling over HK$113 million.

The Consumer Council has received over 3,200 complaints, with the average amount claimed being HK$34,430. The largest single case involves a prepayment of HK$1.86 million for over 1,900 classes and a 10-year membership.

“Customers often bought more classes than they needed and didn’t use them up before the expiry date,” said Consumer Council chief executive Gilly Wong Fung-han. “Trainers then pressured customers to buy more classes to keep their unused credits valid, leading to a snowball effect.”

The Customs and Excise Department has also seen a surge in related complaints, with the number increasing by 65% in just 24 hours. The total amount claimed now stands at over HK$72 million, almost double the figure from Wednesday.

The collapse of this private tutoring firm is causing significant financial distress for many families. The Consumer Council is urging customers to contact them and the Customs and Excise Department to seek assistance.

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