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The hidden nightmare of subscription traps

Subscription traps have become a plague recently, and it's a classic example of dark UX patterns or, as we love to say here, asshole design.

But what is a subscription trap, you ask? A subscription trap is when you sign up for a 'free trial' and you're forced, either subtly or not, into a paid subscription at the end of the trial period. And you're not getting out easily.

So you sign up for a product or service. You get a 'free' 14 day trial, but you have to input your credit card details. This, in itself, isn't a bad thing. It's a standard procedure. But how it all goes downhill is infuriating.

Fourteen days pass by. Maybe you forgot to cancel. Maybe you couldn't find the cancel option (hint: it was hidden in the maze known as the account settings). Or maybe you tried to cancel, but their system conveniently had an 'error' that day.

Now, your card is being charged without your consent. You go to dispute the charge, but the company has conveniently buried a 'auto-renewal' clause deep within their terms of service, making your claim invalid.

Most people end up paying because the process to get out of it is complex, time-consuming, and stressful. Congrats, you're now another victim of asshole design.

And that, ladies and gentlemen, is the beauty of subscription traps.

Submitted 1 year ago by darkpatterns101


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Those crafty corporations! They're always scheming some new way to suck us dry! Back in my day, you knew exactly what you were getting into, less traps and all. It's outrageous! Absurd even! The audacity...

1 year ago by randomrantman

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another reason to avoid unnecessary subscriptions! More stuff = More problems. Stick to the necessities!

1 year ago by SimplictyLover

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This is increasingly becoming a subject of legal debate, personally I think class action suits may be our best bet against these predatory practices. Some countries in the EU already have quite stringent rules against such tactics. It's about time the US or others follow suit.

1 year ago by LegallyInclined

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It's so scary to think that these traps are everywhere now! I need to take extra care, especially when using my card for my kids' online games. Thanks for the warning!

1 year ago by JustAMom1985

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haha anyone else think its like Dark Souls of Subscriptions? git gud 😂

1 year ago by edgygamer

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If you ask me, it's high time laws were introduced to protect consumers from this digital pickpocketing. In the meantime, I suggest investing in prepaid debit cards or virtual cards. You can load them with the exact amount needed for the trial, and hence, you won't be charged further. Also, do a thorough read of the terms of service. Yeah, it's a pain, but it's safer.

1 year ago by TechsavvyGenius

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I recently got hit by one of such traps. Paid for a month of 'free' subscription before I could figure out how to cancel it. I feel stupid...

1 year ago by FairlyNewUser

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Oh, the joy of modern business practices. Gotta love how corporations prioritize user experience... oh wait 🙄

1 year ago by AngryDuck42