Consumer Awareness and Precautions

At age 18, individuals become legal adults and can enter into binding contracts on their own without parental consent. In recent years, however, various consumer problems targeting newly recognized adults and young people have been increasing.
Although the University of Osaka issues warnings to students through notices at the end and beginning of each academic year, the risk of consumer-related problems exists year-round.
Please review the examples and related links below, and take sufficient care to avoid becoming a victim or engaging in any illegal activities.

●Gambling and Related Addictions

Gambling and related addictions are mental disorders characterized by an inability to control one’s behavior due to excessive involvement in gambling and similar activities.
This may result in difficulties in everyday life and social functioning. For example, it may cause health problems such as depression and economic problems such as multiple debts and poverty. It can also lead to family conflicts and broader social issues, including abuse, suicide, and crime.
With appropriate medical treatment and support, recovery from gambling and related addictions is possible.
However, some individuals may not clearly recognize their condition, believing that they are not ill. If left untreated, symptoms can worsen and other problems such as debt may become more serious.
Please see the website below for information on gambling and related addictions and where to seek help for those who may need assistance,

For those experiencing problems with gambling and related addictions (Consumer Affairs Agency)

● Consumer Issues on the Internet

While the increasing use of internet-based transactions in recent years has enhanced convenience, it has also led to a variety of consumer problems related to online shopping, review websites, fraudulent review sites, online gaming, and other internet-based services.
For more information, please refer to the website below.

Consumer Issues on the Internet (Consumer Affairs Agency, Japan)

● Fraudulent Business Practices

Young people and students are frequently targeted by fraudulent schemes involving deceptive or aggressive sales tactics, and these schemes have become increasingly sophisticated over the years.
Do not be swayed by tempting offers or peer pressure. Stay calm, think carefully before deciding, and firmly say “No” to any products or services you do not need.

(Reference) Q&A on Fraudulent Business Practices (Osaka Prefectural Police)
*Provides information on common fraudulent business practices and how to protect yourself

●Before Using Cosmetic Medical Services

Reference: Check again before using cosmetic medical treatment (Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare)

●Do You Know About the Cooling-Off Period?

This is a special system designed to protect consumers under the Act on Specified Commercial Transactions and other laws.
Consumers can cancel a contract unconditionally within a certain period if they entered it through unexpected sales practices such as door-to-door sales, or through complex and high-risk transactions such as multi-level marketing schemes.
Click here (National Consumer Affairs Center of Japan) for information on cooling-off eligibility and cooling-off periods under the Act on Specified Commercial Transactions.

However, the cooling-off system does not apply to mail-order sales (including online shopping). If the seller has established specific terms and conditions regarding returns, those terms and conditions will apply. If there is no specific return policy, consumers may return the product within eight days of receipt. However, the cost of return shipping must be borne by the consumer.

If you are not sure whether you can cancel a transaction under the cooling-off system, or if you do not know how to complete the procedure, please contact your nearest Consumer Affairs Center.

・Consumer Affairs Consultation Service (Consumer Hotline): 188 (connects you to a nearby Consumer Affairs Center or consumer consultation service.)

Osaka Prefectural Consumer Affairs Center

Tel: 06-6616-0888

●How to Check Information on Recalled Products

Over 100 serious accidents occur every year involving recalled products (subject to replacement, inspection, or repair). To avoid such accidents, make sure to check recall information regularly.
Information on Recalled Products Website (Consumer Affairs Agency)

●Online Casinos

Online casinos are illegal in Japan. Do not use them under any circumstances.
Accessing online casinos from within Japan and gambling is a crime! (Consumer Affairs Agency / National Police Agency)