Welcome to Consumer Investigations UK (CIUK)

Consumer Investigations UK (CIUK) is a dedicated watchdog organisation committed to upholding fair trading standards and protecting consumer rights across the United Kingdom. As an independent entity, we conduct thorough investigations into business practices, advertising, and customer service quality, ensuring transparency and integrity in the marketplace.

Our Mission

Our mission is to serve as a vigilant guardian for consumers, providing a reliable avenue for addressing and resolving issues related to unfair business conduct. We strive to foster a commercial environment where trust and fairness prevail, benefiting both consumers and reputable businesses alike.

Collaboration with Regulatory Bodies

We collaborate closely with esteemed agencies such as the Advertising Standards Authority, the Committee of Advertising Practice, and the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI). These partnerships enable us to leverage a wealth of expertise and resources, amplifying our impact in safeguarding consumer interests.

Reporting and Investigation Process

Members of the public play a crucial role in our operations. Concerns regarding questionable business activities can be reported directly through Citizens Advice or any of the aforementioned regulatory agencies. When a deeper enquiry is warranted, CIUK is engaged to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the reported business.

Methodology

We employ a hands-on approach to comprehensively evaluate the customer experience. Our methodology often involves engaging directly with businesses by purchasing their products or services, allowing us to analyse the entire customer journey from initial contact to post-purchase support. This immersive strategy enables us to identify areas of excellence and pinpoint opportunities for improvement. In certain scenarios, we may also initiate enquiries or request quotations that specifically target aspects of service that have been flagged for potential wrongdoing. Through these practical assessments, CIUK ensures a thorough and fair evaluation, upholding our commitment to protect consumer interests.

Outcome and Enforcement

The findings from our investigations are meticulously documented and shared with law enforcement and other relevant organisations. This collaborative approach ensures that appropriate measures are taken, ranging from corrective actions to legal enforcement, thereby upholding consumer protection laws and promoting ethical business practices.

Get Involved

If you have encountered any suspicious or unfair business activities, or if you require guidance on consumer rights, do not hesitate to reach out to Citizens Advice at 0808 223 1133. Your reports are invaluable in our collective effort to maintain a just and safe marketplace for all.