Subscription traps
By the Scampilot team · Last updated
A "free" trial, prize test or streaming sign-up quietly rolls into an expensive subscription: the costs are hidden in fine print, the order button does not say what you are committing to, and suddenly monthly charges appear. In Germany the "button rule" (§ 312j BGB) protects you - an online order only binds you if the button clearly says something like "zahlungspflichtig bestellen" (order with obligation to pay).
Warning signs
- A "free" trial that requires your full payment details up front.
- The price and term are only in the fine print, not next to the order button.
- A streaming or movie site demands registration with payment data before showing anything.
- Cancelling is made hard: no contact, hidden cancellation page, or "call us" only.
Example
Watch the newest movies free for 5 days! Register now with your payment details - cancel anytime. (Fine print: after the trial, membership renews automatically at EUR 59.90 per month.) hxxp://stream-flix-now.club
Made-up example - not a real message.
How to protect yourself
- 01Before any "free" trial, check what the button says: without a clear "order with obligation to pay" label, no valid contract is formed online (§ 312j BGB).
- 02Set a calendar reminder before a trial ends, and check your statements for small recurring charges.
- 03Never enter payment data on a streaming site you reached via an ad or a too-good offer.
Already caught out?
- 01Do not pay invoices or reminders for a trap subscription without checking - without a compliant order button there is usually no contract.
- 02Object in writing, revoke any direct-debit mandate, and have your bank return unauthorised debits.
- 03Get advice from the consumer-protection agency (Verbraucherzentrale) if threats or collection letters follow.
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