E-Commerce Regulations 2002: does it apply to you?
Electronic Commerce (EC Directive) Regulations 2002 (retained UK law)
When this applies
Selling online to consumers likely requires you to display specific business information on your website, including a geographic address (not just a PO box), email address, and clear identification of any commercial communications.
E-commerce regulations apply to information society services generally, not just B2C. B2B online businesses should review whether these disclosure requirements apply.
When it does not apply
E-commerce regulations apply to online services. Not applicable if you have no website.
What is at stake
Failure to provide required information may render contracts unenforceable and could attract Trading Standards attention.
What to do
Ensure your website clearly displays your business name, geographic address, email, and (if VAT registered) VAT number. Commercial communications must be clearly identified as such.
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Check your business →Reviewed: 2026-06-25 · Source: official guidance