Russia: Introduced Bill to protect consumer rights when making paid digital subscriptions (Bill no. 405607-8)

On 19 July 2023, the Bill to protect consumer rights when making paid digital subscriptions (Bill no. 405607-8) was introduced to the State Duma. The Bill seeks to establish certain obligations for digital subscription services to enhance consumer protection. Under the Bill, digital subscription services will be required to notify their clients about the upcoming debit for the next payment, particularly if it's the first payment following the conclusion of a free trial period. Additionally, automatic subscription renewal without the user's explicit consent will be subject to notification. Moreover, if the Bill is approved, digital services will be obligated to continue providing the subscribed service until the end of the prepaid period, even if the user chooses not to renew the subscription further. Furthermore, the Bill includes a provision that prohibits sellers from debiting funds from a client's bank card, previously linked to the online store, if the user has removed it from the site.