If you’re someone who subscribes to OTT platforms regularly, you’ve probably faced this: you sign up for a free trial or a one-month plan… and before you know it, you’ve been charged again.
Welcome to the sneaky world of auto-renewals.
Every major streaming app, be it Netflix, Hotstar, SonyLIV, or others, locks users into auto-renewal by default. No clear warning. No opt-out during the sign-up. You don’t even get a reminder mail before the next deduction. And while platforms argue this ensures uninterrupted viewing, the truth is: it’s designed to trap forgetful users.
In most cases, cancelling is not as easy as subscribing. The settings are buried. And even if you cancel, the app often keeps your card details saved for future charges.
This isn’t just a bad user experience, it’s bad practice.
Why not let users choose?
Why not add a simple toggle at checkout: “Auto-renew or not?”
When airlines and e-commerce sites are being scrutinised for dark patterns and forced add-ons, it’s time OTT platforms are held accountable too. Renewals should be a choice, not a trick.
Until then, millions will keep paying for subscriptions they don’t even use.
It’s not about the money, it’s about transparency.