Today we are going to talk about a very common problem - auto-renewal. Presumably, many friends have had such an experience: suddenly there is less money in the account, and when I check it, I find that it is an App that is automatically renewed!
So, in the face of such a situation, do you choose to continue to use it, or quickly find customer service for a refund?
Before you know it, many of our favorite apps are starting to offer paid VIP services, and they are accompanied by the convenient function of auto-renewal.
For those who, like me, have content in multiple music and video apps, but find it too expensive to subscribe one by one, auto-renewal does bring a lot of convenience.
After all, who doesn't love the promise of a lower price, no manual renewal, and the ability to cancel at any time?
However, problems also arise. Let's start by talking about the convenience of this feature. Auto-renewal eliminates the hassle of manual monthly operations, and there are often some price concessions.
For example, a one-month subscription might cost $30, but an auto-renewal might cost as little as $25. However, behind the convenience lies the risk of forgetting to cancel your subscription. Many people tend to forget which services they have subscribed to in their busy lives, and accidentally spend more money than they want.
I myself once received a charge notice and was shocked to realize that I had unknowingly renewed an app that I didn't use much anymore. What's more, some apps don't remind you in advance when renewing, and we don't realize until the money is deducted. This begs a common question: how do you manage these auto-renewals and avoid unnecessary spending?
Fortunately, some new management measures are being introduced. For example, Xiaomi recently issued the "New Auto-Renewal Function Standard" regulation, which clearly requires apps to obtain the user's consent before enabling auto-renewal, and inform the service content and cost through clear language.
In addition, users must be reminded of impending renewals in a conspicuous manner five days prior to auto-renewal.
The implementation of these regulations has greatly protected the rights and interests of consumers. With the release of the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Law of the People's Republic of China on the Protection of Consumer Rights and Interests" on March 15, 2024, such regulations will not only apply to Xiaomi users, but all other apps that provide auto-renewal services will also follow similar regulations.
How to effectively manage auto-renewal has become a major issue for us as smart consumers. First, make it a habit to regularly check all of your subscriptions.
Most payment platforms and banking apps offer the ability to view recurring payments, which can help us detect and manage auto-renewals in a timely manner.
Next, if you find a subscription that you don't need, remember to cancel it in time.
If you really don't want to continue using the service that has been renewed, you may also try to contact customer service for a refund. And for those services that you use frequently, consider keeping auto-renewals for the convenience and possible price benefits it brings.
Finally, for the sake of our own rights, each of us should pay more attention to the relevant laws and policies, and understand our rights and responsibilities as consumers. After all, only by fully understanding the rules can we better protect our rights and interests and avoid unnecessary economic losses. Do you have any views or experiences you would like to share?