Subscription Traps

Overview

Deceptive practices trick users into subscribing to services they don’t want or can’t easily cancel. Subscription traps are a form of fraud where users unknowingly enroll in recurring payments through misleading offers or hidden terms. These traps are often disguised as free trials or one-time purchases, but fine print or pre-selected options enroll users in expensive, hard-to-cancel subscriptions. Many such schemes exploit mobile apps, targeting unsuspecting users with deceptive user interface patterns.

Risk factors

Subscription traps can arise from:

• Lack of clarity in terms and conditions.
• Hidden pre-checked subscription agreements.
• Difficult cancellation processes, such as requiring phone calls or lengthy forms.

Consequences

If an attacks successfully conducts a subscription trap, the following could happen:

• Financial Loss: Users may be charged recurring fees for services they never intended to subscribe to.
• Reputation Damage: Legitimate app developers may be associated with unethical practices.
• User Distrust: Consumers may avoid apps or services perceived as misleading or exploitative.

Solutions and best practices

To mitigate the risks associated with subscription traps, organisations should implement the following security measures:

• Transparent Terms: Clearly disclose subscription terms and costs upfront, avoiding vague or misleading language.
• Opt-In Practices: Require explicit user consent for subscriptions, avoiding pre-checked boxes.
• Easy Cancellation: Provide a simple, in-app cancellation option that does not require users to leave the app or take additional steps.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure compliance with consumer protection laws and app store policies related to subscription transparency and cancellation.