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 online option for consumers to end recurring charges, addressing widespread frustration over hard-to-cancel services. With the rule struck down, consumers are expected to continue wasting an average of $200 a year on unused subscriptions. Lawmakers and consumer advocates are now pushing for new legislation or regulatory action to revive the rule.

In the meantime, experts recommend proactive tracking and manual cancellation methods to avoid unnecessary charges.