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

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

The rule was set to take effect soon, but its repeal means consumers will continue to face complicated and frustrating cancellation processes. Lawmakers, particularly Democrats, are pushing for new legislation and urging the FTC to find alternative ways to protect consumers. On average, Americans waste about $200 a year on unused subscriptions, a problem that is unlikely to improve without regulatory action.

Consumer advocates recommend taking proactive steps to monitor and manage subscriptions in the absence of federal protections.