DC, Virginia, Maryland Sue Uber Over Allegedly Deceptive Subscription Trials

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DC, Virginia, Maryland Sue Uber Over Allegedly Deceptive Subscription Trials

The attorneys general of Washington D.C., Virginia, and Maryland have officially initiated legal proceedings against Uber. The rideshare company is accused of operating a misleading subscription service known as Uber One.

Key Allegations Against Uber

The lawsuit alleges that Uber exploited consumers with deceptive practices surrounding its subscription model. The complaints include the following:

Failure to deliver promised savings.
Charging consumers during free trial periods.
Signing up individuals for Uber One without their explicit consent.

This legal action was taken in coordination with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), as nineteen states joined forces in this lawsuit filed recently. The amended complaint seeks penalties for violations of the Restore Online Shoppers’ Confidence Act, aimed at ensuring clarity in subscription terms for consumers.

Details on Subscription Practices

The lawsuit highlights that Uber did not fulfill its advertised discounts, including $0 delivery fees and an alleged monthly savings of $25. Many consumers were reportedly charged for Uber One subscriptions they had not actively opted into.

D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb voiced concern over these subscription practices, particularly in light of the area’s rising living costs. He stated, “No one should ever be stuck paying for a subscription they do not want,” emphasizing the need for consumer protection.

Experience of Consumers

The lawsuit claims the process to cancel Uber One is convoluted and difficult. Users reportedly had to navigate twelve different actions across seven screens to unsubscribe. Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares expressed that “deceptive enrollment and billing practices have no place in the marketplace,” highlighting the need for fair treatment of consumers.