Have you ever signed up for a free trial or a one-month streaming subscription, only to notice a charge on your card the following month? You are not alone. Welcome to the murky world of auto-renewals a strategy that streaming platforms have quietly mastered.
From Netflix and Hotstar to SonyLIV and Amazon Prime Video, almost every major OTT service locks users into automatic subscription renewals without offering a clear warning or opt-out during the sign-up process. These platforms claim it is for your convenience, to ensure uninterrupted viewing. But for many users, it feels more like a trap designed to exploit forgetfulness.
There is rarely an email reminder before the next billing cycle. The cancel option is often hidden deep in the settings menu. And once your card is charged, getting a refund is either complicated or impossible. Even after cancellation, the app retains your payment details, ready to charge you again the moment you come back.
The question arises why not offer a simple toggle that allows users to choose whether they want auto-renewal or not? Why not send a courtesy alert before billing begins? When airlines are being fined for dark patterns and e-commerce platforms are facing scrutiny for manipulative checkouts, how are OTT platforms escaping accountability?
The problem is widespread. Millions of users around the world are paying for subscriptions they forgot about, do not use, or never intended to renew. These small charges add up. Over a year, you might spend thousands on platforms you barely open, and often without even realizing it.
It is not just a financial issue. It is a matter of transparency and respect for the user. People are not asking for freebies. They are asking for clarity, control, and the right to make informed decisions.
Until regulations catch up or platforms adopt ethical billing practices, the responsibility lies with the viewer. Set calendar reminders. Use payment wallets that allow easy blocking. Check your active subscriptions every month.
But let’s be clear the burden should not be on the user alone. Renewals should be a conscious choice, not a default trick. And until that changes, this system will continue to feel like a quiet scam.
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