The UK’s
Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is set to investigate cloud storage prices. The Authority, which has headquarters in London, UK and is part of the British Government, promotes competition “for the benefit of consumers, both within and outside the UK”. The CMA’s stated aim is to “make markets work well for consumers, businesses and the economy”. Its investigation will consider aspects of consumer protection and consider whether cloud storage services are fair for consumers.
Around 40% of people aged 16 and above in Great Britain have adopted one or more of the cloud storage options provided by the wide range of major cloud industry players and smaller, independent providers. The CMA’s move comes after receiving a number of complaints related to cloud storage, ranging from reductions in cloud storage capacity and unannounced increases in prices. In addition, users have reported having files deleted, something which might contravene data protection laws in the UK.
"Cloud storage is a dynamic and growing sector which is already highly valued by consumers” suggested the CMA’s Senior Director, Consumer in a press release. "We want to hear from business, interested organisations and consumers about their experiences, to assess whether companies understand and comply with consumer law and whether cloud storage services are working well for consumers as a result. If our review finds breaches of consumer protection laws we will take further action to address these, which could include enforcement action using our consumer law powers, seeking voluntary change from the sector or providing guidance to business or consumers."
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