Court Blocks 'Click-to-Cancel' Rule, Leaving Consumers Trapped in Unwanted Subscriptions

A federal appeals court has blocked the Federal Trade Commission's 'click-to-cancel' rule, which was designed to make it easier for Americans to cancel unwanted digital subscriptions.

The rule would have required businesses to provide a simple, straightforward way for consumers to unsubscribe, but its cancellation means many people will continue to struggle with confusing and difficult cancellation processes. As a result, Americans are estimated to waste around $200 per year on subscriptions they no longer use. Lawmakers and consumer advocates are now pushing for new legislation or regulatory action to revive the rule.

In the meantime, consumers are being advised to use alternative methods and tools to track and cancel unwanted subscriptions.