Russia: Bill to protect consumer rights when making paid digital subscriptions (Federal Law No. 376-FZ/Bill No. 405607-8) enters into force

On 1 March 2026, the Bill to protect consumer rights when making paid digital subscriptions (Federal Law No. 376-FZ/Bill No. 405607-8) enters into force. This regulation is applicable to payments made for services under a subscription agreement, where the transaction occurs through a website, a specific webpage, an information system, or a computer program. Under the new provisions, providers are prohibited from employing a consumer's bank account details or data pertaining to their electronic means of payment for collecting periodic payments, particularly if the consumer had previously furnished these details but has subsequently communicated a clear refusal to the provider for their continued use in settlements. Beyond the prohibition, the Bill also imposes a positive obligation on service providers. They are mandated to establish and maintain systems that effectively ensure the acceptance of a consumer's refusal regarding the use of their previously supplied bank account details or electronic payment data. This requirement includes ensuring that such refusal can be communicated and processed in an electronic format, thereby streamlining the process for consumers to manage their payment consent for digital subscription services.