Auto-Renewing Subscription Class Action Lawsuits

Consumers have come to enjoy the convenience of subscription services. We specialize in auto renewing subscription class action lawsuits, addressing challenges from software to food, to streaming platforms and more. We buy numerous products and services on simple subscription programs that offer exactly what we need with minimal effort and at manageable costs. As attractive as these services may be, they are very often renewed automatically, meaning that the subscription and the accompanying fee will continue even after the customer doesn’t particularly want them anymore. This renewal usually comes at a higher fee than was initially offered. As a result of this practice, there has been a rise in class action lawsuits against companies that engage in it. Here is what you need to know, as a consumer, about auto-renewing subscription class action lawsuits.

What is a Class Action Lawsuit

Class action lawsuits can be brought against any company for a wide variety of reasons. The difference between a normal lawsuit and a class action lawsuit is that, in the latter, a group of plaintiffs collectively sue a company over the same or similar issues. In the case of subscriptions, these issues could include unfair fees, unexpected or unauthorized charges, renewal of the subscription without the customer’s consent, lack of clarity about renewal policies, and more.

Examples of Auto-Renewing Subscription Lawsuits

Although the subscription model is increasingly popular across a range of industries and services, the tendency of businesses to auto-renew subscription services has proven to be frustrating to many consumers. As a result, a number of class action lawsuits have been brought against some very high-profile service providers.

There is currently an ongoing class action against Spotify after it was alleged that the streaming service did not adequately disclose the terms of its free trial offer. The offer automatically converted to a paid subscription at the end of the trial. The plaintiffs then complained that they found it difficult to cancel the subscription once it had automatically started. This case is ongoing, and Spotify is fighting the allegations, claiming that it has done nothing wrong.

Another example is the case of Blue Apron. The meal delivery service was accused of automatically renewing customer subscriptions without their consent, and without giving adequate notice. As with Spotify, Blue Apron denies any wrongdoing, and the case is still ongoing.

In fact, many major corporations have faced allegations of illegal actions in regard to auto-renewing subscription class action lawsuits. Amazon and Netflix have both faced complaints regarding their subscription streaming services, and the former has also had complaints regarding its e-book and audiobook subscriptions.

Advice for Consumers

Auto-renewals are sometimes done without giving the customer proper notice. At other times, however, the company may offer notice at sign-up and even include a clause in its initial service contract. It is very important that consumers pay close attention to what they are agreeing to when signing a trial offer or even buying a full subscription.

Read all the terms of the subscription contract carefully and ensure that you understand them, before signing up. Read the fine print and be sure to actively check what renewal policy is specified. If you end up facing any issues with regard to auto-renewing subscriptions, contact the company and query it. It is always best to resolve the issue directly before considering legal action.

If you are eligible to join a class action with regard to auto-renewal lawsuits, you may be entitled to a share of the ultimate settlement or judgment.

Consumers have the right to hold companies accountable for their actions. If a service provider renews your subscription without your consent, and without due legal provision and notice, you can seek legal assistance and demand compensation from the subscription service.

Shamis & Gentile, P.A. provides outstanding legal services in Florida and New York. We distinguish ourselves because of our experience and resources, which we combine to handle any kind of case involving personal injury, personal injury protection, and class actions/mass tort, among others. We are currently accepting eligible individuals who have complaints against subscription services to join ongoing auto-renewing subscription class action lawsuits against several high-profile service providers. If you believe you have a case, don’t hesitate to contact us today and book a consultation with an auto-renewing subscription class action lawsuit lawyer.