New York City is coming for companies that make it hard to cancel subscriptions
New York City has implemented new regulations to penalize companies that make it difficult for consumers to cancel subscriptions. The move aims to eliminate 'phone loops' and ensure that canceling a service is as simple as signing up.
Why it matters
This represents a growing trend of municipal consumer protection against 'dark patterns' in digital business models.
The Mamdani administration is cracking down on companies that won't let you unsubscribe. ANGELA WEISS / AFP via Getty Images Have you ever tried to cancel a gym or Internet subscription and ended up in a phone loop? A new rule in New York City aims to make it as easy to cancel as it is to sign up for memberships. Companies that don't let consumers easily unsubscribe could pay thousands. Alex Aminov, 37, doesn't know why he's on his current phone plan , or how much he's paying for it. Recently, the Brooklyn-based software developer said he tried to cancel the landline included in his Optimum internet package, which cost an extra $25 a month.
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