FTC Issues Warning to PC Manufacturers for Violating Right to Repair Regulations

Tech & AI | July 4, 2024, 1:44 p.m.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is cracking down on computer companies using "warranty void if removed" stickers and discouraging consumers from fixing their own devices. ASRock, Gigabyte, and Zotac have been warned by the Commission to remove these stickers and language threatening to void warranties if seals are broken. The FTC also cautioned three other companies for hindering consumers' ability to perform maintenance on their products. This violation of consumers' right to repair products purchased could lead to law enforcement action if not corrected within 30 days. The 1975 Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act prohibits companies from placing restrictions on repairs without providing parts or services for free or receiving a waiver from the FTC. The FTC has previously sent warnings to companies like Nintendo, Sony, and Microsoft for similar practices. This crackdown aligns with the rising trend of right to repair laws across US states.