Poland: Office of Competition and Consumer Protection opened investigation into Netflix over alleged lack of consent for fee increase

Description

Office of Competition and Consumer Protection opened investigation into Netflix over alleged lack of consent for fee increase

On 25 August 2025, the Polish Office of Competition and Consumer Protection (UOKiK) opened an investigation into Netflix over increased subscription fees applied without explicit consumer consent. UOKiK noted that Netflix treated users’ silence as acceptance of higher charges, a practice in noncompliance with consumer protection rules. The UOKiK emphasised that service providers cannot unilaterally change essential contract terms, such as price, especially when payments are automatically charged. Such practices may result in fines of up to 10% of turnover and potential refunds for incorrectly charged fees. UOKiK also stated that it is reviewing the policies and practices of other providers, including Apple, Disney+, Google (YouTube Premium), HBO Max, Microsoft (GamePass), Sony (PlayStation Plus), and Adobe, with some companies already committing to adjust their practices.

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Scope

Policy Area
Consumer protection
Policy Instrument
Fair marketing and advertising practice requirement
Regulated Economic Activity
streaming service provider
Implementation Level
national
Government Branch
executive
Government Body
competition authority

Complete timeline of this policy change

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2025-08-25
under deliberation

On 25 August 2025, the Polish Office of Competition and Consumer Protection (UOKiK) opened an inves…