FTC signs off on new rule to simplify unsubscribing process for PlayStation Plus
The Federal Trade Commission has approved a new “click-to-cancel” rule, aimed at making it easier for consumers to cancel subscription services like PlayStation Plus. This rule requires subscription providers to simplify the unsubscribing process, ensuring that it is just as easy to cancel a subscription as it is to sign up for one.
No American should have to worry about being tricked into buying subscriptions and memberships – or staying in either against their will.
Today, my Administration is taking action to ensure folks don’t have to jump through hoops to cancel them. https://t.co/3TJFi362vh— President Biden (@POTUS) October 16, 2024
According to reports by Engadget, the new rule aims to prevent consumers from being charged for services they no longer require, and eliminate the barriers typically associated with canceling a subscription.
Commission Chair Lina Khan stated, “Too often, businesses make people jump through endless hoops just to cancel a subscription. The FTC’s rule will end these tricks and traps, saving Americans time and money. Nobody should be stuck paying for a service they no longer want.”
While the final rule excludes some initially proposed stipulations such as annual subscription renewal reminders and consent for discussing service modifications, it will undoubtedly simplify the process of canceling PlayStation Plus subscriptions.
For PlayStation players, this means that the current cumbersome process of canceling PS Plus – which involves multiple screens and prompts to reconsider the decision – will be replaced with a more straightforward click-to-cancel method.
When put to the test, it was found that canceling a PS Plus subscription currently involves navigating through five different screens, including prompts to reconsider and provide a reason for cancellation. The final screen notifies customers of the expiration date, allowing for potential reactivation before that time. This new rule is set to streamline this process.
Source: Engadget