UK Tightens Subscription Rules for Dating Apps
The UK is introducing new rules for automatically renewing subscriptions, including paid memberships on dating apps such as Tinder, Bumble and Hinge. The changes, due to take effect in January 2027, will give customers more control over renewals and make it easier to cancel subscriptions.
The rules form part of the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024. Many consumer protections already exist, including a 14-day cooling-off period for online purchases. The new requirements focus on automatic renewals and clearer information for subscribers.
What Is Changing?
- Renewal reminders: Companies must notify customers before certain automatic renewals, including when free trials become paid subscriptions.
- Easier cancellation: Customers who sign up online must be able to cancel online without unnecessary obstacles.
- New cooling-off rights: Customers will have another 14 days to cancel after certain renewals, including annual renewals and the end of free trials.
- Clearer subscription terms: Companies must explain pricing, renewal dates and cancellation rights before customers subscribe.
- Extended cancellation rights: If companies fail to provide required information about cooling-off rights, the cancellation period can extend by up to an additional 12 months.
The Online Dating and Discovery Association (ODDA) has raised questions about how refunds should work when customers use premium dating features before cancelling. The rules allow companies to make proportionate deductions for services already provided, subject to legal conditions. The ODDA is seeking clarity on how those deductions should apply to dating subscriptions, which combine ongoing access with digital features.
