Australian Court Formalises eHarmony Consumer Law Breaches
Australia’s Federal Court has formally declared that eHarmony breached consumer law. The declarations confirm findings from August. The court found that eHarmony misled users about free dating services and subscription costs. Basic members needed a paid membership to maintain contact with potential partners. Advertised monthly prices also excluded a mandatory A$3 instalment fee.
The court also found misleading claims about subscription renewals, one-month memberships and cancellation rights. Plans automatically renewed for 12 months at the regular price unless users disabled renewal. eHarmony intends to seek permission to appeal some findings. The ACCC is pursuing penalties, which the court has yet to determine.
