Court Blocks FTC's 'Click-to-Cancel' Rule, Leaving Consumers Stuck in Subscription Traps

A federal appeals court has struck down the Federal Trade Commission's 'click-to-cancel' rule, which was designed to make it easier for consumers to cancel unwanted subscriptions online.

The rule was set to take effect soon and would have required businesses to provide a simple, straightforward way for users to unsubscribe. With the rule blocked, many Americans are expected to continue wasting hundreds of dollars a year on unused subscriptions, as canceling remains a complicated process. Democratic lawmakers are now pushing for new legislation and urging the FTC to find alternative ways to protect consumers.

In the meantime, consumers are advised to use manual tracking and other workarounds to manage their subscriptions.