Consumer protection against subscription traps

In short: Subscription traps are online offers where hidden costs or contract commitments only become visible after clicking. German law protects consumers through clear information obligations.

In more detail: Since the “button solution”, paid orders on the internet must be clearly labelled as such.

In detail

• Button solution: The order button must be clearly labelled “order with payment obligation” or similar.
• Missing labelling: Without correct labelling, often no valid contract comes into existence at all.
• Free trick: Supposedly free trials that automatically turn into paid subscriptions are a classic.
• Reacting to invoices: Do not pay immediately, but check the legitimacy of the claim.
• Filing an objection: Object in writing with a deadline stated, ideally with proof of posting.
• Consumer advice centres: Offer template letters and advice for dealing with subscription traps.
• Prevention: Carefully check terms and conditions and price information before every online order (widerrufsrecht-im-fernabsatz).