The 67-page lawsuit explains that consumers can access a broader range of features on the video-hosting and streaming platform by signing up for various subscription programs, including Vimeo Starter, Vimeo Standard and Vimeo Advanced. According to the case, Vimeo has violated California’s Automatic Renewal Law (ARL) by automatically charging consumers fees for the renewal of their monthly or annual subscriptions without first obtaining their affirmative consent and clearly disclosing its auto-renewal terms and cancellation policy. In an effort to maximize profits, Vimeo riddles its website with deceptive design tactics known as “dark patterns” that trick customers into signing up for recurring subscriptions that are “next to impossible” to cancel, the complaint claims. “Vimeo’s use of dark patterns is so egregious that the company’s practices are consistently used as examples to help [User Experience] students and writers understand and explain dark patterns,” the filing contends. Indeed, the suit says the company has seen a “sharp decline” in subscriber satisfaction due to its unclear cancellation policies and confusing billing practices.
‹ All examples Vimeo
Class Action Claims Vimeo Automatic Subscription Renewals Violate California Law
A proposed class action alleges Vimeo automatically renews consumers’ subscription plans without first making certain disclosures required under California law.