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ARTICLE · 14 SEPTEMBER 2026

No More Subscription Traps: New Consumer Rules Arrive Early

Broadfield Law UK LLP
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The UK Government has brought forward new rules to combat subscription traps, requiring businesses to provide clearer contract information, send renewal reminders, and simplify cancellation processes. These changes under the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 will take effect in January 2027, with significant penalties for non-compliance including fines up to £300,000 or 10% of turnover.

United KingdomConsumer Protection
Dorothy Agnew
Dorothy Agnew
Maytal Psarra
Maytal Psarra

The UK Government has accelerated the implementation of new rules to crack down on “subscription traps”, moving the deadline forward by three months to January 2027. The changes require businesses offering subscription contracts to provide clearer upfront information, send regular reminders before automatic renewal and make cancellation easier.

This article summarises the key implications for subscription contracts under the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024.

Practical tips

  • Act now to update subscription contract terms. Don’t wait until January 2027.
  • Be upfront. Don’t bury key information in lengthy terms.
  • Send renewal reminders. Don’t rely on customers to remember.
  • Make exit easy. Don’t require multiple steps or narrow windows.

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