Rising Debt from Online Shopping Affects Women and Youth Most

New data reveals that nearly a third of indebted individuals owe money to online retailers, with women and younger people particularly impacted.

Approximately 594,800 people sought help from debt counseling services last year, with 30% of them having debts from online shopping.
The average debt owed to online and mail-order retailers in 2023 was 650 euros, a notable increase from 527 euros in 2018.
Women are disproportionately affected, with 37% of indebted women having online shopping debts, compared to 23% of men.
Younger individuals, particularly those aged 20 to 24, are more likely to be in debt to online retailers, with 40% of this age group affected.
Consumer protection officials warn that 'buy now, pay later' schemes contribute to rising debt, as they can lead to multiple small loans and financial mismanagement.