Consumer Rights Wiki - User contributions [en]

NDAA has military right to repair stripped from it in favor of data as a service

2026-03-21T05:59:56Z

2001:4BC9:82B:F663:2205:B7FF:FE00:E700: /* References */ fix title

{{OngoingEvent}}The '''National Defense Authorization Act''', or '''NDAA''', is an annual bill that outlines the budget for the U.S. Department of Defense for the following fiscal year. Often, legislators add "rider" provisions or amendments to the NDAA unrelated to the defense budget in order to pass favorable legislation (including controversial legislation) that may not stand on its own.

The NDAA for fiscal year 2026 initially contained bipartisan [[right to repair]] language that has recently been removed by House representatives and replaced with language pertaining to "data-as-a-service". In this context, '''"Data-as-a-service"''' refers to contract models where the data, software access, and permissions required for repair are provided on a subscription or pay-per-use basis, as opposed to being included with purchase of the product, or provided freely on customer request as is the expectation when right-to-repair language is used.

Data-as-a-service provisions have been seen in Representatives' Mike Rogers and Adam Smith's SPEED Act<ref name="speed">{{Cite web |date=June 9, 2025 |title=Streamlining Procurement for Effective Execution and Delivery Act of 2025 (SPEED Act) |url=https://armedservices.house.gov/uploadedfiles/speed_act_full_text.pdf |access-date=November 20, 2025 |website=House Armed Services Committee |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260124210149/https://armedservices.house.gov/uploadedfiles/speed_act_full_text.pdf |archive-date=24 Jan 2026}}</ref>, and its inclusion to the NDAA has been pushed by representatives whose campaigns have received major financial support from large contractors with the Pentagon.

==Legislative outlook==

===Representatives supporting the change===
Commentators have noted<ref name="rossmann">{{Cite web |last=Rossmann |first=Louis|title=Defense contractors just killed military right to repair - here's the $535,000 reason why |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C0LmjzXV7IA |access-date=November 20, 2025 |website=YouTube |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=C0LmjzXV7IA |archive-date=23 Feb 2026}}</ref> that the primary representatives pushing for language changes from right to repair to data-as-a-service have had their campaigns heavily supported by defense contractors:
*Representative Mike Rogers has received over $535,000 from the defense industry, the top sector that donates to his campaigns<ref name="rogers">{{Cite web |date=February 6, 2025 |title=Rep. Mike D Rogers - Alabama District 03 |url=https://www.opensecrets.org/members-of-congress/mike-d-rogers/industries?cid=N00024759&cycle=2024 |access-date=November 20, 2025 |website=OpenSecrets |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251124015351/https://www.opensecrets.org/members-of-congress/mike-d-rogers/industries?cid=N00024759&cycle=2024 |archive-date=24 Nov 2025}}</ref>. He is a top recipient from the "Defense Electronics" industry, in particular. He has received $10,500 from Boeing and $66,650 from L3.<ref name="rogers" />
*Representative Adam Smith has received<ref name="smith-industries">{{Cite web |title=Rep. Adam Smith - Washington District 09 |url=https://www.opensecrets.org/members-of-congress/adam-smith/industries?cid=N00007833&cycle=2024 |access-date=November 20, 2025 |website=OpenSecrets |date=February 6, 2025 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251127172451/https://www.opensecrets.org/members-of-congress/adam-smith/industries?cid=N00007833&cycle=2024 |archive-date=27 Nov 2025}}</ref> $310,550 from the defense industry, which is the second top sector that donates to his campaign. Palantir is Smith's #3 top contributor<ref name="smith-contributors">{{Cite web |title=Rep. Adam Smith - Washington District 09 |url=https://www.opensecrets.org/members-of-congress/adam-smith/contributors?cid=N00007833&cycle=2024 |access-date=November 20, 2025 |website=OpenSecrets |date=August 31, 2025 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250328085220/https://www.opensecrets.org/members-of-congress/adam-smith/contributors?cid=N00007833&cycle=2024 |archive-date=28 Mar 2025}}</ref>.

===Stakeholders===
The right to repair policy was supported by the Trump administration<ref name="usatoday">{{Cite web |last=Winkie |first=Davis |date=01 Oct 2025 |title=US military may soon be allowed to repair its own vehicles and equipment |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2025/10/01/pentagon-senate-provision-gains-trump-admin-support/86455785007/ |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251021192345/https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2025/10/01/pentagon-senate-provision-gains-trump-admin-support/86455785007/ |archive-date=21 Oct 2025 |access-date=20 Nov 2025 |website=USA Today}}</ref>, by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth<ref name="usatoday" />, Army Secretary Dan Driscoll<ref name="warren-victory">{{Cite web |last=Warren |first=Elizabeth |title=Warren Statement on Army Right-to-Repair Victory |url=https://www.warren.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/warren-statement-on-army-right-to-repair-victory |access-date=November 20, 2025 |website=Office of U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren |date=May 2025 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251210115619/https://www.warren.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/warren-statement-on-army-right-to-repair-victory |archive-date=10 Dec 2025}}</ref>, and by Navy Secretary John Phelan<ref name="navy">{{Cite web |title=Navy Secretary Advocates for Sailors' 'Right to Repair' Equipment |url=https://www.defense.gov/News/News-Stories/Article/Article/4212472/navy-secretary-advocates-for-sailors-right-to-repair-equipment/ |access-date=November 20, 2025 |website=U.S. Department of Defense |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250723113102/https://www.defense.gov/News/News-Stories/Article/Article/4212472/navy-secretary-advocates-for-sailors-right-to-repair-equipment/ |archive-date=23 Jul 2025}}</ref>. In general, the larger defense contractors tend to strongly oppose military right to repair, while small- and medium-sized businesses who could compete for new repair contracts are more supportive of the military's right to repair.<ref name="rossmann" />
==Public response==
Right to repair advocate Louis Rossmann commented on the relative effectiveness of the inclusion of data-as-a-service language in legislation as opposed to right to repair language<ref name="rossmann" />, making the following points:

==='''Data-as-a-service creates additional red tape'''===
Currently, the Department of Defense (DoD) can negotiate for access to rights long-term (though contractors still have the upper hand).{{Citation needed}} Adding data-as-a-service/pay-per-use would mean the DoD must seek permission from contractors each time a repair, tool, or information (data) is needed. This tends to cause more delay in contested logistics environments with service members receiving only one-time access to repair information. More specifically, the data-as-a-service model requires the DoD to contract to a company's data library on a pay-per-use model, increasing overall costs and discouraging both DoD and other contractor competitors from providing repair services.

===Similar response to other industries===
Rossmann compared the data-as-a-service model upon military equipment to discussions within the automotive industry, such as the controversial Memorandum of Understanding used by car manufacturers who oppose the right to repair.<ref name="ifixit">{{Cite web |date=September 5, 2023 |title=Car Companies Are Astroturfing Right to Repair |url=https://www.ifixit.com/News/80635/car-companies-are-astroturfing-right-to-repair |access-date=November 20, 2025 |website=iFixit |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251123192726/https://www.ifixit.com/News/80635/car-companies-are-astroturfing-right-to-repair |archive-date=23 Nov 2025}}</ref> Replacing right to repair in the NDAA with "data-as-a-service" gives the appearance of care and concern regarding repair restrictions. However, as with the automotive industry's Memorandum of Understanding, the results are the same - manufacturers block car owners and independent repairers from effectively repairing products and equipment.

Similarly, farm equipment company [[John Deere]] attempted to appease farmers with these tactics. Most recently was their release of a digital repair tool called Operations Center Pro Service,{{Citation needed}} a tool that requires internet access in rural areas including open fields where farm equipment may be located, and it also requires farmers to pay annual fees for access to repair data.<ref name="deere">{{Cite web |last=O'Reilly |first=Kevin |date=July 18, 2023 |title=Service Obstructor: John Deere software restricts farmer repair |url=https://pirg.org/edfund/resources/john-deere-repair-software/ |access-date=November 20, 2025 |website=U.S. PIRG Education Fund |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251126043400/https://pirg.org/edfund/resources/john-deere-repair-software/ |archive-date=26 Nov 2025}}</ref> Deere has tried this tactic before, releasing software it said fixed the problem but that meant farmers couldn't find or access the basic information they needed.<ref name="deere" />

Rossmann made the point that these repair "services" result in restrictions upon consumers and higher profit for the manufacturers, even in the case of Pentagon contractors at the expense of the U.S. military.

In this case, while the primes seem to pretend<ref name="hegseth">{{Cite web |last=Konkel |first=Frank |date=November 2025 |title=Draft list of attendees for Hegseth acquisition-reform speech shows wide industry interest |url=https://www.defenseone.com/business/2025/11/draft-list-attendees-hegseth-acquisition-reform-speech-shows-wide-industry-interest/409344/?oref=d1-homepage-river |access-date=November 20, 2025 |website=Defense One |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251205083655/https://www.defenseone.com/business/2025/11/draft-list-attendees-hegseth-acquisition-reform-speech-shows-wide-industry-interest/409344/?oref=d1-homepage-river |archive-date=5 Dec 2025}}</ref> to Secretary Hegseth that they care about this issue, their actions serve to undermine repairability.
==Timeline==
*January 2025: Senator Warren receives commitment from Secretary of the Army, Dan Driscoll, to work with her on tackling repair restrictions for the military.<ref name="pirg-nominee">{{Cite web |last=Bowers |first=Isaac |date=January 30, 2025 |title=Military Right to Repair supported by Army Secretary Nominee |url=https://pirg.org/articles/army-secretary-nominee-supports-military-right-to-repair/ |access-date=November 20, 2025 |website=U.S. PIRG |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251122203621/https://pirg.org/articles/army-secretary-nominee-supports-military-right-to-repair/ |archive-date=22 Nov 2025}}</ref>
*May 2025: Secretary Driscoll announced that the U.S. Army will ensure right to repair provisions are included in future Army contracts.<ref name="pirg-army">{{Cite web |last=Proctor |first=Nathan |date=May 2, 2025 |title=The Army embraces Right to Repair: Why that matters and what comes next |url=https://pirg.org/resources/the-army-embraces-right-to-repair-why-that-matters-and-what-comes-next/ |access-date=November 20, 2025 |website=U.S. PIRG |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251123114951/https://pirg.org/resources/the-army-embraces-right-to-repair-why-that-matters-and-what-comes-next/ |archive-date=23 Nov 2025}}</ref>
*May 2025 - Poll shows Americans support military right to repair by a nearly 7-to-1 margin.<ref name="pirg-poll">{{Cite web |author=Isaac Bowers, Nathan Proctor, and Douglas H. Phelps |date=May 20, 2025 |title=Report: Americans support military Right to Repair by nearly a 7-to-1 margin |url=https://pirg.org/media-center/report-americans-support-military-right-to-repair-by-nearly-a-7-to-1-margin/ |access-date=November 20, 2025 |website=U.S. PIRG |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251129015333/https://pirg.org/media-center/report-americans-support-military-right-to-repair-by-nearly-a-7-to-1-margin/ |archive-date=29 Nov 2025}}</ref>
*July 2025: Senators Warren and Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.) introduced the Warrior Right to Repair Act of 2025 - legislation that would require contractors to provide the Department of Defense (DoD) with access to technical data and materials the military needs to repair and maintain its own equipment.<ref name="congress-bill">{{Cite web |author=Ms. Warren and Mr. Sheehy |date=July 8, 2025 |title=S.2209 - Warrior Right to Repair Act of 2025 |url=https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2209/text |access-date=November 20, 2025 |website=Congress.gov - Library of Congress |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260115113036/https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2209/text |archive-date=15 Jan 2026}}</ref>
*July 2025: A provision was secured with bipartisan support in the Senate Armed Services Committee for Fiscal Year 2026 NDAA.<ref name="warren-sheehy">{{Cite web |date=July 8, 2025 |title=Warren, Sheehy Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Guarantee Military Right to Repair Its Equipment |url=https://www.warren.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/warren-sheehy-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-guarantee-military-right-to-repair-its-equipment |access-date=November 20, 2025 |website=U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260217104559/https://www.warren.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/warren-sheehy-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-guarantee-military-right-to-repair-its-equipment |archive-date=17 Feb 2026}}</ref> It includes portions of Senator Warren's bipartisan Warrior Right to Repair Act, and it guarantees all branches of the military the right to repair their equipment and requires contractors to provide all relevant repair information.<ref name="warren-sheehy" />
*July 2025 - Intellectual property legal experts send a letter to Congress stating that the ''Warrior Right to Repair Act'' is consistent with long-held law and it "presents no conflict with manufacturers' IP rights."<ref name="professors">{{Cite web |date=July 2025 |title=Law professors express support for Warrior Right to Repair Act |url=https://pirg.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Professors-military-repair-letter-final-2.pdf |access-date=November 20, 2025 |website=U.S. PIRG |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251130092724/https://pirg.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Professors-military-repair-letter-final-2.pdf |archive-date=30 Nov 2025}}</ref>
*September 2025: The White House announced support for Warren-Sheehy military right to repair policy.<ref name="usatoday" />
*September 2025 - National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA) issues white paper opposing military right to repair and advocating for "data as a service."<ref name="ndia">{{Cite web |date=September 2025 |title=IP and Data Rights: Protecting DoD's Access to Innovation |url=https://www.ndia.org/-/media/sites/ndia/policy/ip-and-data-rights/ip-and-data-rights-white-paper.pdf?download=1 |access-date=November 20, 2025 |website=National Defense Industrial Association |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260208171408/https://www.ndia.org/-/media/sites/ndia/policy/ip-and-data-rights/ip-and-data-rights-white-paper.pdf?download=1 |archive-date=8 Feb 2026}}</ref>

*October 2025: NDAA, which includes the Warren-Sheehy provision, passed the U.S. Senate.{{Citation needed}}
*October 2025 - 339 small businesses sent a letter urging passage of military right to repair. "This is about ensuring the government can maintain and repair what it already owns. It's about making sure the Department of Defense has access to every capable partner in the country to keep our military mission-ready."<ref name="sema">{{Cite web |date=October 21, 2025 |title=339 Small Businesses Urges Passage of Right to Repair Bill for U.S. Military |url=https://www.sema.org/news-media/press-release/339-small-businesses-urges-passage-right-repair-bill-us-military |access-date=November 20, 2025 |website=Specialty Equipment Market Association |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251206181250/https://www.sema.org/news-media/press-release/339-small-businesses-urges-passage-right-repair-bill-us-military |archive-date=6 Dec 2025}}</ref>
*October 2025 - Trump administration issues statements of administration policy on the House and Senate NDAA supporting military right to repair.<ref name="sap-house">{{Cite web |date=September 8, 2025 |title=Statement of Administration Policy: H.R. 3838 – Streamlining Procurement for Effective Execution and Delivery and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 |url=https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/SAP-HR3838-House-NDAA.pdf |access-date=November 20, 2025 |website=The White House |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260117065209/https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/SAP-HR3838-House-NDAA.pdf |archive-date=17 Jan 2026}}</ref><ref name="sap-senate">{{Cite web |date=September 9, 2025 |title=Statement of Administration Policy: S. 2296 – National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 |url=https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/SAP-S2296-Senate-NDAA-9.9.25.pdf |access-date=November 20, 2025 |website=The White House |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260219122812/https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/SAP-S2296-Senate-NDAA-9.9.25.pdf |archive-date=19 Feb 2026}}</ref>
*October 2025 - Former Trump DoD undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness, and VA Secretary Robert Wilkie endorse military right to repair<ref name="wilkie">{{Cite web |title=Our troops deserve the right to repair |url=https://thehill.com/opinion/national-security/5551775-defense-contractor-logistics-reform/ |access-date=November 20, 2025 |website=The Hill |author=Robert Wilkie |date=November 19, 2025 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251127142915/https://thehill.com/opinion/national-security/5551775-defense-contractor-logistics-reform/ |archive-date=27 Nov 2025}}</ref>.
*'''Now: The House and Senate versions of the FY26 NDAA go to conference.'''
*November 2025 - With Honor sends letter urging military right to repair be included in the final NDAA.<ref name="withhonor">{{Cite web |last=Barcott |first=Rye |title=With Honor Action Urges Inclusion of Key Reforms in Final FY26 Defense Bill |url=https://withhonor.org/news/with-honor-action-urges-inclusion-of-key-reforms-in-final-fy26-defense-bill/ |access-date=November 20, 2025 |website=With Honor Action |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251231202116/https://withhonor.org/news/with-honor-action-urges-inclusion-of-key-reforms-in-final-fy26-defense-bill/ |archive-date=31 Dec 2025}}</ref>
*November 2025 - taxpayer and watchdog groups send letter urging support for military right to repair in final NDAA.<ref name="ntu">{{Cite web |date=November 5, 2025 |title=Joint Letter: NDAA Conference Recommendations |url=https://www.ntu.org/publications/detail/joint-letter-ndaa-conference-recommendations |access-date=November 20, 2025 |website=National Taxpayers Union |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251211024136/https://www.ntu.org/publications/detail/joint-letter-ndaa-conference-recommendations |archive-date=11 Dec 2025}}</ref>
*November 2025 - President and CEO of Aerospace Industries Association, Eric Fanning, publishes an op-ed in ''Washing Times'' opposing military right to repair.<ref name="fanning">{{Cite web |author=Eric Fanning |date=November 13, 2025 |title=Congress' 'right to repair' provisions threatens the backbone of U.S. defense innovation |url=https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2025/nov/13/congress-right-repair-provisions-threatens-backbone-us-defense/ |access-date=November 20, 2025 |website=Washington Times |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260118224833/https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2025/nov/13/congress-right-repair-provisions-threatens-backbone-us-defense/ |archive-date=18 Jan 2026}}</ref>
*November 2025 - Secretary Hegseth announces new DoD acquisition policy including that "''The Department must plan for and acquire systems with the ability to conduct organic depot-level maintenance, repair, and overhaul of systems and sub-systems to ensure military readiness for any conflict."''{{Citation needed}}

==References==
{{reflist}}

Wendy's

2026-03-21T05:53:25Z

2001:4BC9:82B:F663:2205:B7FF:FE00:E700: /* References */ fix title

{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1969-11-15
|Industry=Food
|ParentCompany=The Wendy's Company
|Type=Public Subsidiary
|Website=https://www.wendys.com/
|Description=fast food giant that's 3rd most popular in the world behind mcdonalds and burger king.
|Logo=Wendy's Logo.png}}

[[wikipedia:Wendy's|Wendy's International, LLC]] founded by Dave Thomas in 1969, is an American fast food restaurant ranking the 9th most valuable brand in 2026.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Perry |first=Alex |date=2026-02-15 |title=Wendy's ranked among top restaurants despite sales drop, store closures |url=https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/companies/wendys-ranked-among-top-restaurants-despite-sales-drop-store-closures/ar-AA1Wj27o |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-15 |website=Msn |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260224100359/https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/companies/wendys-ranked-among-top-restaurants-despite-sales-drop-store-closures/ar-AA1Wj27o |archive-date=24 Feb 2026}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Gupta |first=Cherry |date=2026-02-13 |title=Top 10 restaurants in the world 2026: American fast-food brands dominate, with McDonald’s leading the list |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/trending/top-10-listing/top-10-restaurants-in-the-world-2026-brand-finance-report-10523703/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-15 |website=The Indian Express |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260211081647/https://indianexpress.com/article/trending/top-10-listing/top-10-restaurants-in-the-world-2026-brand-finance-report-10523703/ |archive-date=11 Feb 2026}}</ref>

Wendy's has faced controversy regarding security and privacy practices, paying conditions, and introduction of dynamic pricing, all of which resulted in various movements like [https://www.boycott-wendys.org/ Boycott Wendy's].
==Incidents==
This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].

===Wendy's Denies Gift Cards under $10===
On August 2015, Wendy’s was hit was a class action lawsuit over refusing to redeem gift card’s value less than $10, violating California’s gift card redemption policy. Wendy’s reached a settlement on February 15, requiring the company accept gift card’s less than $10, add California redemption policy on their website, and post notices on a 90 day period informing employees of the new terms. <ref>{{Cite web |last=Yi |first=John |date=2017-12-18 |title=A Lesson from Norms: California Retailers Must Honor Cash Redemption Requests for Gift Cards with Balances of Less Than $10 |url=https://www.faegredrinker.com/en/insights/publications/2017/12/a-lesson-from-norms-california-retailers |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-24 |website=Faegre Drinker}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Milano |first=Ashley |date=2016-12-28 |title=California Wendy’s Gift Card Redemption Class Action Settlement |url=https://topclassactions.com/lawsuit-settlements/closed-settlements/california-wendys-gift-card-redemption-class-action-settlement/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-24 |website=Top Class Actions}}</ref>

===Wendy's 2015 Cyberattack===

On Fall 2015, Wendy's was hit was a data breach across 1,025 restaurant that result in millions of customers debit and credit card information being stolen.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-07-08 |title=Food chain Wendy's hit by massive hack |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-36742599 |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-15 |website=BBC News |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250715080412/https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-36742599 |archive-date=15 Jul 2025}}</ref> Hackers infected Wendy's older [[wikipedia:Point_of_sale|point of sale systems]] with malware, allowing collection of customers financial information including card numbers, expiration dates, and security codes.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-02-15 |title=Wendy’s credit card breach: Timeline, failures, and key lessons for businesses |url=https://www.cyberarrow.io/blog/wendys-credit-card-breach/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-15 |website=CyberArrow}}</ref> On February, Wendy's started conducting an investigation after reports of fraud linked to Wendy's in January, revealing the hacker's use of two different malware. The company made a public announcement on May 2016, claiming only 300 restaurants were effected and setting up a page for customers to check if payment information had been compromised. <ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-07-07 |title=Updates Related to Investigation of Unusual Payment Card Activity at Wendy’s |url=https://www.wendys.com/payment-card-incident |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-15 |website=Wendy's |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251112104016/https://www.wendys.com/payment-card-incident |archive-date=12 Nov 2025}}</ref>

This led to a lawsuit filed by First Choice Federal Credit Union and other unions in 2016. eventually leading to an settlement of $50 Million on June 2018.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Abel |first=Robert |date=2019-02-19 |title=Wendy’s to pay $50M in data breach settlement |url=https://www.scworld.com/news/wendys-has-agreed-to-pay-50-million-to-settle-negligence-claims-following-its-2015-2016-data-breach-that-affected-more-than-1000-of-the-burger-chains-locations |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-16 |website=SCworld |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250722175748/https://www.scworld.com/news/wendys-has-agreed-to-pay-50-million-to-settle-negligence-claims-following-its-2015-2016-data-breach-that-affected-more-than-1000-of-the-burger-chains-locations |archive-date=22 Jul 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2000-04-29 |title=Wendy’s Data Breach – $50 Million Settlement and Improved Security Protocols |url=https://scott-scott.com/wendys-data-breach-50-million-settlement-and-improved-security-protocols/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-15 |website=Scott + Scott |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251105030719/https://scott-scott.com/wendys-data-breach-50-million-settlement-and-improved-security-protocols/ |archive-date=5 Nov 2025}}</ref>
[[File:Wendy's 2018 Website Shutdown Page.png|alt=Wendy's 2018 Website Shutdown Page|thumb|Website Shutdown Page]]
[[File:Wendy's 2018 Cybersecurity Leak Customer Notification Alert.png|alt=Wendy's 2018 Cybersecurity Leak Customer Notification Alert|thumb|Customer Notification Alert]]

===Wendy's 2018 Philippines Security Vulnerability===
On March 31, 2018 <ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-05-24 |title=Breach details for Wendy's |url=https://sysinfo.org/breaches/wendys.com.ph.html |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-16 |website=Sysinfo |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260222055604/https://sysinfo.org/breaches/wendys.com.ph.html |archive-date=22 Feb 2026}}</ref> Wendy's was inflicted with a malware attack on their Point of sale systems, compromising over 52,000 customers and job applicants email addresses, IP addresses, Names, Passwords, phone numbers, and home addresses. <ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-04-25 |title=What happened in the Wendy's data breach? |url=https://www.twingate.com/blog/tips/wendy-data-breach |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-15 |website=Twingate |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260224100534/https://www.twingate.com/blog/tips/wendy-data-breach |archive-date=24 Feb 2026}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-05-24 |title=Wendy's Data Breach |url=https://haveibeenpwned.com/Breach/Wendys |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-15 |website=Have I Been Pwned |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251228083129/https://haveibeenpwned.com/Breach/Wendys |archive-date=28 Dec 2025}}</ref> Wendy's notified the [[National Privacy Commission]](NPC) about the hack, resulting with the commission ordering Wendy's inform users of the data breach on May 2.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-02-16 |title=What happened in the Wendy's data breach? |url=https://www.twingate.com/blog/tips/wendy-data-breach |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260224100534/https://www.twingate.com/blog/tips/wendy-data-breach |archive-date=24 Feb 2026 |access-date=2026-02-16 |website=Twingate}}</ref> <ref>{{Cite web |last=Diangson |first=Louie |date=2018-03-08 |title=NPC orders Wendy’s PH and Jollibee to take actions against data breach |url=https://www.yugatech.com/news/npc-orders-wendys-ph-and-jollibee-to-take-actions-against-data-breach/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-16 |website=YugaTech |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20210420130949/https://www.yugatech.com/news/npc-orders-wendys-ph-and-jollibee-to-take-actions-against-data-breach/ |archive-date=20 Apr 2021}}</ref> On the same day as the order, Wendy's shut down their website and inform customers with the message;<blockquote>"We would like to inform you that there has been a security breach on Wendy's PH website. Personal data provided in our website particularly your name, email address, contact number, address, and your resume might have been compromised. Wendy's website has already been shut down and we are currently conducting investigation on the incident. We are coordinating with the NPC, our host provider and payment gateway for immediate action to prevent damage to our data subjects. For any concerns, kindly contact Mr. Rommel Gabaldon at 625-2778 loc. 133 or email dataprivacy@wendys.com.ph" </blockquote>There has been no further information regarding the affiliated hackers legal status.

===False information regarding Animal Welfare===
Wendy's was hit with a consumer protection lawsuit by Food Animal Concerns Trust (FACT) on September 9, 2021 due to misleading customers with their high animal welfare standards not being cage free environments.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-06-01 |title=FACT Resolves Consumer Protection Lawsuit Against Wendy's Regarding Animal Welfare Statements About Eggs |url=https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/fact-resolves-consumer-protection-lawsuit-against-wendys-regarding-animal-welfare-statements-about-eggs-301558300.html |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-24 |website=PR Newswire}}</ref> Wendy's reached an settlement agreement on June 1,2022 that order's Wendy's clarify their animal welfare practices on their website. <ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-02-24 |title=FACT’s Consumer Protection Lawsuit Against Wendy's is Resolved |url=https://www.foodanimalconcernstrust.org/blog/facts-consumer-protection-lawsuit-against-wendys-is-resolved |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-24 |website=Food Animal Concerns Trust}}</ref> <ref>{{Cite web |last=Behr |first=Felix |date=2021-09-17 |title=The Real Reason Wendy's Is Being Sued Over Its Eggs |url=https://www.mashed.com/608610/the-real-reason-wendys-is-being-sued-over-its-eggs/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-24 |website=Mashed}}</ref>

===False Advertising Burger Content===
Wendy was hit was a class action lawsuit on September 30, 2023 over false advertising, claiming Wendy’s advertisement of burgers was made more appealing and 15% larger than the actual product with usage of under-cooked patties, food stylists and digital editing. The case was dismissed on January 2024, ruling the plaintiff failed to prove how a customer would be misled by the advertising and lack of proof of the specific advertisement claimed as misleading.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-09 |title=Court Dismisses Burger-Size Advertising Claims Against McDonald’s, Wendy’s |url=https://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/court-dismisses-burger-size-advertising-8262646/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-24 |website=Jdsupra}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Durbin |first=Dee |date=2023-10-03 |title=False Advertising Claims Against Wendy's, McDonald's Dismissed |url=https://www.foodmanufacturing.com/supply-chain/news/22875062/false-advertising-claims-against-wendys-mcdonalds-dismissed |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-24 |website=Food Manufacturing}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Russo |first=Anthony |date=2026-02-24 |title=Wendy’s Class Action Lawsuit |url=https://therussofirm.com/wendys-class-action-lawsuit/#elementor-toc__heading-anchor-5 |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-24 |website=The Russo Trial Lawyers Firm}}</ref>

==See also==

*[[McDonald's]]
*[[Domino's]]

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]

Apple

2026-03-21T05:49:19Z

2001:4BC9:82B:F663:2205:B7FF:FE00:E700: /* References */ add title

{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1976
|Industry=Electronics
|Logo=Apple logo (black).svg
|ParentCompany=
|Type=Public
|Website=https://apple.com/
|Description=Tech company known for hardware, software, and operating systems. Has repeatedly restricted device repairs, and exerts strict control over its software ecosystem
|CompanyAlias= Apple, Inc
}}

{{Wplink|Apple Inc.|'''Apple'''}} is an American technology company that was founded in 1976 by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak and Ronald Wayne. It is best known for its consumer electronics, software, and services.

Apple's current product lineup includes hardware such as the [[:Category:Apple IPhones|iPhone]], iPad, Apple Watch, Mac, Apple Vision Pro, [[Airpods|AirPods]], and Apple TV; operating systems such as iOS, iPadOS, visionOS, and macOS; and various software and services including Apple Pay, iCloud, Apple Arcade, and multimedia streaming services like Apple Music and [[Apple TV+]].

==Incidents==

===Repairability of Apple products in the 2000s===
Since the 2000s, Apple has focused on reducing the weight of its products as technology has advanced and become increasingly complex. This shift has contributed to challenges in repairing and upgrading their devices.

===Hardware design issues in the 2010s===
Apple had numerous hardware design issues in the 2010s, often poorly acknowledged by the company and frequently charging exorbitant amounts for repair.

*High-cost GPU failures on early 2010's MacBooks<ref>{{Cite web |date=2014-10-28 |title=Apple faces class-action lawsuit over 2011 MacBook Pro GPU issues |url=https://9to5mac.com/2014/10/28/apple-class-action-lawsuit-2011-macbook-pro-gpu-graphics-issues/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251010222822/https://9to5mac.com/2014/10/28/apple-class-action-lawsuit-2011-macbook-pro-gpu-graphics-issues/ |archive-date=2025-10-10 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=9to5mac}}</ref>
*the 2016-'17 MacBook Pro's screen cable skimping scandal<ref>{{Cite web |last=Porter |first=Jon |date=2019-05-05 |title=Apple quietly addressed ‘Flexgate’ issue with MacBook Pro redesign |url=https://www.theverge.com/2019/3/5/18251264/macbook-pro-2018-flexgate-fix-display-cable-2mm-longer |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251224195648/https://www.theverge.com/2019/3/5/18251264/macbook-pro-2018-flexgate-fix-display-cable-2mm-longer |archive-date=2025-12-24 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=The Verge}}</ref>
*2016-2019 MacBooks butterfly keyboards<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bohn |first=Dieter |date=2020-05-04 |title=The saga of Apple’s bad butterfly MacBook keyboards is finally over |url=https://www.theverge.com/2020/5/4/21246223/macbook-keyboard-butterfly-magic-pro-apple-design |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260128222108/https://www.theverge.com/2020/5/4/21246223/macbook-keyboard-butterfly-magic-pro-apple-design |archive-date=2026-01-28 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=The Verge}}</ref>
*the 2019 16-inch MacBook Pro's SSD failures<ref>{{Cite web |last=digilloyd |date=2020-04-03 |title=2019 MacBook Pro Seems to Have a High Failure Rate |url=https://macperformanceguide.com/blog/2020/20200403_1024-MacBookPro2019-repairs.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250708181056/https://macperformanceguide.com/blog/2020/20200403_1024-MacBookPro2019-repairs.html |archive-date=2025-07-08 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=Mac Performance Guide}}</ref>
*The announcement and cancellation of Apple AirPower<ref>{{Cite web |last=Panzarino |first=Matthew |title=Apple cancels AirPower product, citing inability to meet its high standards for hardware |url=https://techcrunch.com/2019/03/29/apple-cancels-airpower-product-citing-inability-to-meet-its-high-standards-for-hardware/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190401040644/https://techcrunch.com/2019/03/29/apple-cancels-airpower-product-citing-inability-to-meet-its-high-standards-for-hardware/ |archive-date=2019-04-01 |website=TechCrunch}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Clover |first=Juli |date=2018-09-12 |title=After No Sign of AirPower at Today's Event Apple Wipes Most Mentions From Website |url=https://www.macrumors.com/2018/09/12/no-sign-of-airpower-at-september-event/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211124170507/https://www.macrumors.com/2018/09/12/no-sign-of-airpower-at-september-event/ |archive-date=2021-11-24 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=MacRumors}}</ref> due to overheating{{CitationNeeded|reason=no archived article mentioning overheating specifically}}

====Recent attempts to do better====
Recently, Apple has made efforts to improve its products, though some observers feel that its pro-consumer practices still do not match those of certain other manufacturers. This shift is thought by some to be influenced by evolving legislation.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |last=Hern |first=Alex |date=2022-10-26 |title=Apple to put USB-C connectors in iPhones to comply with EU rules |url=https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2022/oct/26/iphone-usb-c-lightning-connectors-apple-eu-rules |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260212030935/https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2022/oct/26/iphone-usb-c-lightning-connectors-apple-eu-rules |archive-date=2026-02-12 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=The Guardian}}</ref> 

This includes:

*Opening an online [[Apple Self Service Repair|Self Service Repair]] parts store.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-11-17 |title=Apple announces Self Service Repair |url=https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2021/11/apple-announces-self-service-repair/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260203201914/https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2021/11/apple-announces-self-service-repair/ |archive-date=2026-02-03 |access-date=2026-03-08 |website=Apple Newsroom}}</ref>
*Making the back glass of iPhones removable starting from iPhone 14.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wiens |first=Kyle |date=2022-09-16 |title=Inside Apple’s Secret iPhone 14 Redesign |url=https://www.ifixit.com/News/64865/iphone-14-teardown |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260116032657/https://www.ifixit.com/News/64865/iphone-14-teardown |archive-date=2026-01-16 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=iFixIt}}</ref>
*Allowing alternative app stores in an update to iOS 17, in compliance with new EU legislation.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Installing apps through alternative app distribution in the European Union |url=https://support.apple.com/en-us/117767 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251223191001/https://support.apple.com/en-us/117767 |archive-date=2025-12-23 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=support.apple.com}}</ref>
*Calibration tools for newly installed used parts in iOS 18,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Use Repair Assistant to finish an iPhone or iPad repair |url=https://support.apple.com/en-us/120579 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260208125243/https://support.apple.com/en-us/120579 |archive-date=2026-02-08 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=support.apple.com}}</ref> which sometimes work.{{CitationNeeded}}
*An upgradeable, swappable SSD in the 2024 Mac Mini - albeit you cannot swap these units between M4 and M4 Pro units due to the internal casing's design being different without much good reason.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sorrel |first=Charlie |date=2024-11-12 |title=All Hail the Return of Upgradeable Storage! Mac mini 2024 Teardown |url=https://www.ifixit.com/News/104302/all-hail-the-return-of-upgradeable-storage-mac-mini-2024-teardown |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251116041530/https://www.ifixit.com/News/104302/all-hail-the-return-of-upgradeable-storage-mac-mini-2024-teardown |archive-date=2025-11-16 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=iFixit}}</ref>
*A battery removable with just a 9V battery in the 2024 iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus.<ref>{{Cite web |title=iPhone 16 Plus Battery |url=https://support.apple.com/en-us/120671 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251018203540/https://support.apple.com/en-us/120671 |archive-date=2025-10-18 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=support.apple.com}}</ref>
Many of these items have sparked allegations of [[malicious compliance]] and being introduced purely to make stricter right for repair legislation appear unnecessary to legislators while not doing much to improve the situation for consumers. 

For instance, pricing for parts on the [[Apple Self Service Repair|Self Service Repair]] store is virtually identical to having the part replaced by Apple themselves (including both the price of the part and labor)<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ganapini |first=Cristina |date=2022-12-06 |title=Apple’s self-repair programme is not the Right to Repair we need |url=https://repair.eu/news/apples-self-repair-programme-is-not-the-right-to-repair-we-need/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260209051628/https://repair.eu/news/apples-self-repair-programme-is-not-the-right-to-repair-we-need/ |archive-date=2026-02-09 |access-date=2026-03-08 |website=Right to Repair Europe}}</ref>, alternate app installation options are limited to users in the EU, still [[Forced account|require developers to be registered]] with Apple, have them approve the apps and in many cases paying them fees, and the upgradeable SSDs do not use common standards such as M.2 NVME. Unlike standard SSDs, they are also not always swappable between different models and require access to a second Apple computer to provision after installation.

===Operating system downgrades===
[[File:Macos startup security.png|alt=macOS startup security screen|thumb|macOS startup security screen]]
It is not possible to upgrade or downgrade an iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, etc. to an Operating System (OS) version that is no longer signed by Apple. In most cases, only the most recent version is signed. Some exceptions exist, such as certain Apple TV models and Apple Silicon Macs. Downgrading the Apple TV 4K series is not possible at all due to the lack of a USB port. On Macs with a T2 chip, the user can select from three modes of secure boot:<ref>{{Cite web |title=About Startup Security Utility on a Mac with the Apple T2 Security Chip |url=https://support.apple.com/en-us/102522 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250607083624/https://support.apple.com/en-us/102522 |archive-date=7 Jun 2025 |access-date=22 Jun 2025 |website=Apple}}</ref>

*No Security: Allow any OS to run (same as turning off secure boot on a PC).
*Medium Security: Allow any OS that is signed with a secure boot certificate (default, same as turning on secure boot on a PC).
*Full Security: Only allow the latest version of macOS, do not allow any other OS.

On Macs with Apple Silicon, the user can select from two modes of secure boot:

*Permissive Security: Accessible only via recovery Terminal tools (and still enforces Apple’s secure chain for much of the boot). This is the lowest available security policy on Apple silicon but does not remove secure boot entirely in the way “No Security” used to.
*Reduced Security: Allows booting older versions of macOS trusted by Apple but still enforces signed OS policy.
*Full Security: Only the currently signed macOS version trusted by Apple can boot.

iOS devices only support Full Security mode. The device checks for a cryptographic "ticket",<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-11-20 |title=APTicket |url=https://theapplewiki.com/wiki/APTicket |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260216234725/https://theapplewiki.com/wiki/APTicket |archive-date=2026-02-16 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=theapplewiki.com}}</ref> which are tied to the OS version and CPU serial number. These are provided by a server, which only provides them for the latest version (with very specific exceptions). The device refuses to boot if the ticket does not match. Workarounds exist, but with major caveats that are not viable for most users,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-09-27 |title=Firmware rendering |url=https://theapplewiki.com/wiki/Firmware_downgrading |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251021213054/https://theapplewiki.com/wiki/Firmware_downgrading |archive-date=2025-10-21 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=theapplewiki.com}}</ref> see the technical details on [[wikipedia:SHSH_blob|SHSH blobs]].

===Class action lawsuit===
Apple was the defendant of a class-action lawsuit with claims dating back to 2017 where users noticed their phones were being artificially slowed down. Apple agreed to settle the lawsuit for up to $500 million USD.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Cooper |first=Gael |date=9 Jan 2024 |title=Apple Starts Sending Out iPhone 'Batterygate' Settlement Payments. What to Know |url=https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/apple-starts-sending-out-iphone-batterygate-settlement-payments-what-to-know/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250321051703/https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/apple-starts-sending-out-iphone-batterygate-settlement-payments-what-to-know/ |archive-date=21 Mar 2025 |access-date=22 Jun 2025 |website=CNET}}</ref> Apple claimed that this change was to benefit users who have old failing batteries, and that it wasn't for planned obsolescence.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Napolitano |first=Elizabeth |date=2023-08-18 |title=Millions of Apple customers to get payments of up to $90 in iPhone "batterygate" settlement. Here's what to know. |url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/apple-iphone-payment-500-million-settlement-what-to-know/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251228042055/https://www.cbsnews.com/news/apple-iphone-payment-500-million-settlement-what-to-know/ |archive-date=28 Dec 2025|website=CBS News}}</ref> They later published software updates and an article explaining how users can opt out of this new "performance management" mode.<ref>{{Cite web |title=iPhone battery and performance |url=https://support.apple.com/en-us/101575 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250618231138/https://support.apple.com/en-us/101575 |archive-date=18 Jun 2025 |access-date=22 Jun 2025 |website=Apple}}</ref>

Once a new OS version is installed, there is no opportunity to go back. This also restricts the user's choice to {{Wplink|iOS jailbreaking|jailbreak}} the device, as the latest version naturally has patches for the latest jailbreak exploits. App developers also require access to earlier iOS versions to test that their app works correctly. The alternative, Xcode's iOS Simulator, is not a complete replacement for real hardware, as it does not have all features of a physical device.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Vajpai |first=Shreeti |date=24 Jun 2024 |title=iOS Emulators / Simulators vs Real iOS Devices |url=https://contextqa.com/test-on-ios-emulators-simulators/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250519081214/https://contextqa.com/test-on-ios-emulators-simulators/ |archive-date=19 May 2025 |access-date=22 Jun 2025 |website=ContextQA}}</ref> Instead, app developers are forced to purchase several test devices, and remember to ''never'' allow them to update.

===Parts availability===
Many parts are not available directly from Apple. Those that are available directly from Apple may be more expensive than paying Apple to repair your device.{{CitationNeeded|reason=add citation with proof of this}} Parts available to certified repair centers are extremely limited.{{CitationNeeded|reason=proof if possible}} Apple does not stock current generation iPad parts within GSX (See Certified Repair Centers). A limited selection of iPad parts are available from iFixit, however this can exclude some flex PCBs necessary for repairing headphone jacks.{{CitationNeeded|reason=proof if possible}}

If an Apple iPhone has GPS calibration issues and or {{Wplink|Bluetooth}} connectivity issues, Apple will do their own diagnostics. You explain to the Apple employee how and when the issues occur and you explain in detail your methods to reproduce the issues. The issues occur when your phone is in your pocket while using navigation and when you hold your phone upside down while using your Apple Beats wireless headphones. After Apple runs their diagnostics and they are not able to detect the issues, they will move onto the next step which is fully resetting your device. This is considered a standard troubleshooting procedure. When you ask the Apple store manager if they would be willing to exchange your device for a similar model if they cannot fix your device they respond with "No, because these phones are designed to be fixed". After the software reset fail, Apple will require you to leave your phone with them so they can send it to their offsite repair facility for further diagnostics. After a few days, Apple will come to the conclusion that your phone requires an entire new midsection. When asked what was replaced, Apple will inform you that the entire inside has been replaced — essentially giving you a new phone (with a new IMEI, EID, etc.) apart from the casing and screen. {{CitationNeeded}}

===Diagnostic software availability===
Calibration software for some Apple devices has only recently become available to end users. End user calibration tools have only become accessible in iOS 18. Similar calibration tools have been available to Certified Repair Centers, but are generally limited as many parts are serialized, i.e. lid sensors on MacBooks. {{CitationNeeded}}

===Certified repair centers===
Certified Repair Centers have some limited access to Apple's proprietary backend (GSX2). GSX contains many tools necessary to repair devices such as diagnostic tools, calibration tools, parts catalog, and device repair history. GSX is only accessible to repair centers Apple deems certified. GSX does not stock parts for iPads. It does not allow the calibration of parts such as lid sensors for a device, if that device does not have an open repair and purchased parts.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 Jan 2017 |title=GSX - How to Gain GSX Apple Access - iOSGenius |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wy8bS1AgxcY |url-status=live}}</ref> {{CitationNeeded|reason=add an archive and properly cite this}}The new iOS 18 calibration tool is very similar to Apple's ASU (GSX's diagnostic/calibration tool). Some videos of GSX can be found online. See: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wy8bS1AgxcY GSX - How to Gain GSX Apple Access - iOSGenius]

===Advertisements in first party apps===
In 2014, Apple and the band U2 partnered to give all iTunes users a free digital copy of their newest album at the time, ''Songs of Innocence'', which was marketed as "the biggest album release ever in history".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2014/09/09Apple-U2-Release-Songs-of-Innocence-Exclusively-for-iTunes-Store-Customers/|title=Apple & U2 Release “Songs of Innocence” Exclusively for iTunes Store Customers|date=2014-09-09|work=Apple Newsroom|access-date=2025-06-25|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250405230217/https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2014/09/09Apple-U2-Release-Songs-of-Innocence-Exclusively-for-iTunes-Store-Customers/|archive-date=2025-04-05|url-status=live}}</ref> Many users who didn't want the album couldn't remove it from their iTunes library due to the album being listed as a "past purchase" on their account (however the album could always be "hidden").<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.wired.com/2014/09/apples-devious-u2-album-giveaway-even-worse-spam/|title=Apple's Devious U2 Album Giveaway Is Even Worse Than Spam|date=2014-09-16|first=Vijith|last=Assar|work=WIRED|access-date=2025-06-25|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250530112829/https://www.wired.com/2014/09/apples-devious-u2-album-giveaway-even-worse-spam/|archive-date=2025-05-30|url-status=live}}</ref> Some reports speculated the deal was worth 100 million dollars and was done due to the band's declining popularity.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.npr.org/2014/09/15/348612823/apples-u2-album-promotion-backfires|title=Apple's U2 Album Promotion Backfires|first=Nathan|last=Rott|date=2014-09-15|work=NPR|access-date=2025-06-25|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250601154245/https://www.npr.org/2014/09/15/348612823/apples-u2-album-promotion-backfires|archive-date=2025-06-01|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2022, Bono, a member of U2, wrote in his memoir how Tim Cook reportedly said how "there’s something not right about giving [U2's] art away for free" and "the whole point of what we’re trying to do at Apple is to not give away music free. The point is to make sure musicians get paid".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://fortune.com/2022/10/24/tim-cook-said-free-u2-album-itunes-was-not-right/|title=Apple CEO Tim Cook thought U2 putting its album on your iPhone was ‘not right’—even though he did it anyway|first=Tristan|last=Bove|date=2022-10-24|work=Fortune|access-date=2025-06-25|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250127191141/https://fortune.com/2022/10/24/tim-cook-said-free-u2-album-itunes-was-not-right/|archive-date=2025-01-27|url-status=live}}</ref>

In 2025, Apple added a promotional offer for F1 The Movie in their Wallet application.<ref>{{Cite web |title=F1 The Movie - News |url=https://www.apple.com/tv-pr/originals/f1/news/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251109164811/https://www.apple.com/tv-pr/originals/f1/news/ |archive-date=2025-11-09 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=Apple TV+ Press}}</ref> Users have mentioned how this could violate Apple's own policy on advertising, how the high price of Apple devices shouldn't justify first party ads, and the annoyance of seeing it.<ref>{{Cite web |author=u/african-nightmare |date=2025-06-24 |title=Getting ads in Apple Wallet, how to disable? |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/iphone/comments/1ljfs7u/getting_ads_in_apple_wallet_how_to_disable/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250725194601/https://old.reddit.com/r/iphone/comments/1ljfs7u/getting_ads_in_apple_wallet_how_to_disable/ |archive-date=2025-07-25 |access-date=2025-06-25 |work=Reddit}}</ref> For users on the iOS 26 beta, there is an option to disable "Offers & Promotions", with users on iOS 18 needing to disable notifications completely for the Wallet app.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://techcrunch.com/2025/06/24/iphone-customers-upset-by-apple-wallet-ad-pushing-f1-movie/|title=iPhone customers upset by Apple Wallet ad pushing ‘F1’ movie|first=Sarah|last=Perez|date=2025-06-24|work=TechCrunch|access-date=2025-06-25|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250624213223/https://techcrunch.com/2025/06/24/iphone-customers-upset-by-apple-wallet-ad-pushing-f1-movie/|archive-date=2025-06-24|url-status=live}}</ref>

<gallery>
File:Apple Wallet F1 sponsored ad (1).jpg|Notification of the offer
File:Apple Wallet F1 sponsored ad (2).jpg|Home screen of Wallet app
File:Apple Wallet F1 sponsored ad (3).jpg|Apple Cash card screen
File:Apple Wallet F1 sponsored ad (4).PNG|Screen when selecting "learn more"
</gallery>

===AirDrop censorship (''2022'')===
''Main Article:'' [[Airdrop Hong Kong Censorship]][[File:AirDrop restrictions.png|alt=Airdrop Sharing Restrictions photo|thumb|Airdrop Sharing Restrictions]]
As a result of the 2019 Hong Kong protests, Apple was pressured by the Chinese government to set a time limit for the AirDrop "everyone" option for iPhones due to its impact at scheduling protests against the government to avoid censorship.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2022/11/10/23450967/apple-airdrop-limited-china-goverment-protests|title=Apple limits AirDrop in China after its use in protests|first=Jess|last=Weatherbed|date=2022-11-10|work=The Verge|access-date=2025-08-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250723112204/https://www.theverge.com/2022/11/10/23450967/apple-airdrop-limited-china-goverment-protests|archive-date=2025-07-23|url-status=live}}</ref>

In 2023, the setting was applied to all iPhones worldwide to "mitigate unwanted file sharing", meaning users will need to set their airdrop setting manually every ten minutes instead of leaving it on permanently, leaving the only other options as "contacts only" and "receiving off".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://9to5mac.com/2025/03/17/apple-globally-censoring-this-iphone-communication-feature-deserves-renewed-scrutiny/|title=Apple globally censoring this iPhone communication feature deserves renewed scrutiny|first=Zac|last=Hall|date=2025-03-17|work=9To5Mac|access-date=2025-08-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250723142521/https://9to5mac.com/2025/03/17/apple-globally-censoring-this-iphone-communication-feature-deserves-renewed-scrutiny/|archive-date=2025-07-23|url-status=live}}</ref>

==="Peanuts" TV Special Takeover===
In late October of 2020, Apple announced that its Apple TV+ service had become the exclusive home of the library of classic ''Peanuts'' animated specials, including ''A Charlie Brown Christmas'', ''It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown'', and ''A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving''. For almost 50 years, these beloved specials were shown once a year on free over-the-air TV, but as of 2020, anybody who wishes to watch them is now required to own a device that offers the Apple TV+ service and an active Apple TV+ subscription.<ref>{{cite web |last=Adalian |first=Josef |date=2020-10-19 |title=Apple TV+ Says: Welcome, Great Pumpkin |url=https://www.vulture.com/2020/10/its-the-great-pumpkin-charlie-brown-streaming-apple-tv.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251208132132/https://www.vulture.com/2020/10/its-the-great-pumpkin-charlie-brown-streaming-apple-tv.html |archive-date=2025-12-08 |access-date=2025-11-05 |work=Vulture}}</ref>

===2024 Antitrust Lawsuit===
In March 2024, the United States Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against Apple claiming that the "closed garden" ecosystem Apple creates surrounding its iPhones stifles competition and innovation. The lawsuit alleges that Apple is directly forcing customers to purchase and use iPhones and their accessories and software in several ways:

*Forcing mobile carriers including AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile to offer its best customer deals exclusively to those who purchase iPhones.
*Restricting the functionality of Super apps such as WeChat.
*Forcing in-app purchases through applications such as Fortnite to be made within the App Store and taking a part of the proceeds as commission pay.
*Restricting the use of third-party digital wallets and requiring users to exclusively use Apple Pay.
*Restricting how third-party message apps can interact with iMessage.
*Restricting their HomeKit home automation system and all compatible devices to work only on Apple's products and issuing cease & desist orders against emulators designed to make HomeKit compatible with third-party products.
*Restricting compatibility of third party smart watches.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-03-21 |title=U.S and Plaintiff States v. Apple Inc. |url=https://www.justice.gov/atr/case/us-and-plaintiff-states-v-apple-inc |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260221190000/https://www.justice.gov/atr/case/us-and-plaintiff-states-v-apple-inc |archive-date=2026-02-21 |access-date=2026-03-11 |website=United States Department of Justice}}</ref>{{CitationNeeded|reason=make sure the source beside this is the actual antitrust case.}}

Apple is expected to go to trial in early 2027.<ref>{{cite web |last=Liedtke |first=Michael |date=2025-06-30 |title=Judge allows antitrust lawsuit against Apple to proceed |url=https://apnews.com/article/apple-antitrust-case-justice-department-664c187d7d09d57460076c7aa2f0c0bf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260205235908/https://apnews.com/article/apple-antitrust-case-justice-department-664c187d7d09d57460076c7aa2f0c0bf |archive-date=2026-02-05 |access-date=2025-07-14 |work=Associated Press}}</ref>

===European Union USB-C Directive 2022/2380===
As part of Directive (EU) 2022/2380, the EU mandated that all smartphones, tablets, digital cameras, headphones, and other portable electronic devices must utilize USB-C as a universal charging standard by the end of 2024, with laptops following by 2026. <ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-12-07 |title=Directive (EU) 2022/2380 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 November 2022 amending Directive 2014/53/EU on the harmonisation of the laws of the Member States relating to the making available on the market of radio equipment (Text with EEA relevance) |url=https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32022L2380 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250817091803/https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32022L2380 |archive-date=2025-08-17 |access-date=2025-09-02 |website=EUR-Lex}}</ref>

This regulatory measure directly addresses consumer frustration with incompatible chargers types and aims to significantly reduce electronic waste. <ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-12-28 |title=USB-C-Standard: Schluss mit dem Kabelwirrwarr |url=https://www.zdfheute.de/wirtschaft/ladekabel-usb-c-standard-apple-entsorgung-elektroschrott-100.html |access-date=2025-09-02 |website=zdfheute |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260215214259/https://www.zdfheute.de/wirtschaft/ladekabel-usb-c-standard-apple-entsorgung-elektroschrott-100.html |archive-date=15 Feb 2026}}</ref> The legislation allows manufacturers to unbundle chargers from devices, potentially saving consumers money, and ensures charging speed harmonization across compatible devices.

While Apple initially opposed the standardization, arguing that it would "stifle innovation rather than encourage it," the company ultimately conceded defeat, with Apple's head of marketing stating "we have no choice" regarding compliance. <ref name=":2" />

===European Digital Markets Act.===
This law forced many companies including Apple to change the way they operate to create a fairer competition. Read more about this law [[Digital Markets Act|here]].

====Changes Apple introduced iOS and iPadOS to comply with this law:====

*Introduced the ability to install applications from alternative marketplaces
*asks which browser and search engine should be the default one
*Developers now are allowed to publish in the EU browsers that do not use webkit

====Controversies:====

*Apple removed iPhone torrenting app iTorrent from alternative marketplace AltStore PAL, developer said that the access was revoked "without any warning". In a statement to The Verge, Apple spokesperson Peter Ajemian said, “Notarization for this app was removed in order to comply with government sanctions-related rules in various jurisdictions. We have communicated this to the developer.”<ref>{{Cite news |last=Weatherbed |first=Jess |date=August 28, 2025 |title=Apple pulls iPhone torrent app from AltStore PAL in Europe |url=https://www.theverge.com/news/767344/apple-removes-itorrent-altstore-pal-ios-marketplace |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250903102041/https://www.theverge.com/news/767344/apple-removes-itorrent-altstore-pal-ios-marketplace |archive-date=September 3, 2025 |work=The Verge}}</ref>

===Elon Musk Lawsuit===
In August of 2025, businessman [[Elon Musk]] accused Apple of engaging in anti-competitive practices by only allowing OpenAI’s [[ChatGPT]] to reach the top of the sales chart on Apple App Store. He announced his plan to sue Apple for this practice.<ref>{{cite web |last=Durden |first=Tyler |date=2025-08-12 |title=Musk Accuses Apple Of "Unequivocal Antitrust Violation" For Favoring OpenAI In App Store Rankings |url=https://www.zerohedge.com/technology/musk-accuses-apple-unequivocal-antitrust-violation-favoring-openai-app-store-rankings |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251029051235/https://www.zerohedge.com/technology/musk-accuses-apple-unequivocal-antitrust-violation-favoring-openai-app-store-rankings |archive-date=2025-10-29 |access-date=2025-08-14 |work=ZeroHedge}}</ref> 

===Greenwashing===
Apple claims to be environmentally friendly and invests significant amounts of funds in corresponding PR campaigns,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Environment {{!}} Mother Nature |url=https://www.apple.com/environment/mother-nature/ |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250928112101/https://www.apple.com/environment/mother-nature/ |archive-date=2025-09-28 |access-date=2025-09-15 |website=Apple}}</ref>  but the reality is not quite as green.

Customers are lead to think that their purchases and frequent replacement of their devices do not have a negative impact on the environment, which is not the case.

In autumn of 2025, stricter EU regulations on misleading marketing claims and a lawsuit by German environmental and consumer protection non-profit organization ''Deutsche Umwelthilfe'' have forced Apple to remove their claim of carbon neutrality on several products on their EU websites. Affected products include the Apple Watch 3 and Apple Watch Series 11.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schwan |first=Ben |date=2025-11-26 |title=Wegen EU-Regeln: Apple zieht Klimaneutralitäts-Claim zurück [Due to EU regulations: Apple retracts claim of climate neutrality] |url=https://www.heise.de/news/Wegen-EU-Regeln-Apple-zieht-Klimaneutralitaets-Claim-zurueck-10711532.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260129120129/https://www.heise.de/news/Wegen-EU-Regeln-Apple-zieht-Klimaneutralitaets-Claim-zurueck-10711532.html |archive-date=2026-01-29 |access-date=2025-11-26 |website=Heise Online}}</ref>

====Green energy pooling====
Apple shares manufacturing capacity at Chinese/Taiwanese companies FoxConn and Pegatron with other companies. If Apple uses a hypothetical 20% of their manufacturing capacity, and company B, C, D, and E also each take up 20%, and the company doing the manufacturing runs on 20% renewably generated energy, now Apple as well as companies B, C, D, and E will each publicly claim that their manufacturing runs 100% on renewable energy. In other words, each company will claim the 20% renewable energy was used for ''their'' production.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Gieselmann |first=Hartmut |date=2023 |title=Von wegen CO2-neutral – Umweltexperten werfen Apple Greenwashing vor |url=https://www.heise.de/select/ct/2023/23/2326512021124424489 |journal=c't Magazin für Computertechnik [Germany] |volume=2023 |issue=23 |pages=49 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251104112550/https://www.heise.de/select/ct/2023/23/2326512021124424489 |archive-date=2025-11-04}}</ref>

====CO2 Certificates and forest projects====
…

====The packaging trick====
Apple, like many companies, regularly emphasises how environmentally friendly their packaging is and highlight advancements in this area.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple 2030 – We’ve reduced our emissions by over 60% |url=https://www.apple.com/environment/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250910014941/https://www.apple.com/environment/ |archive-date=2025-09-10 |access-date=2025-09-15 |website=Apple}}</ref>

This deliberately distracts from the fact that only a negligible fraction of the environmental footprint of an electronic device comes from the packaging, as it is made of significant amounts or rare earth minerals, metals and mined components and consuming vast amounts of energy, water and fuel in manufacturing and transport.

Some of the environmental advancements touted by Apple could also be argued to be environmentally beneficial side effects of purely economic decisions aimed at maximizing profit, such as shipping iPhones without chargers.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dragan |first=Lauren |date=2023-09-12 |title=iPhones No Longer Come With a Charger or Headphones. Here’s What to Get If You Need Them. |url=https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/blog/iphone-12-charger-headphones-options/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250731104206/https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/blog/iphone-12-charger-headphones-options/ |archive-date=2025-07-31 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=The New York Times}}</ref>

====Shredding vast amounts of fully functional devices====
In 2020, it came to light that Apple had filed a lawsuit against a recycling company, revealing that 100,000 iPhones had been illegitimately shipped to China to be sold there instead of being shredded as had been agreed with Apple.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Lovejoy |first=Ben |date=2024-04-24 |title=100,000 iPhones stolen instead of scrapped; Apple accused of shredding usable devices |url=https://9to5mac.com/2024/04/18/100000-iphones-stolen-instead-of-scrapped/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250725022423/https://9to5mac.com/2024/04/18/100000-iphones-stolen-instead-of-scrapped/ |archive-date=2025-07-25 |access-date=2025-09-16 |website=9to5mac}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Carrique |first=Felicitas |date=2020-10-04 |title=Apple sues recycling partner for reselling more than 100,000 iPhones, iPads, and Watches it was hired to dismantle |url=https://www.theverge.com/apple/2020/10/4/21499422/apple-sues-recycling-company-reselling-ipods-ipads-watches |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260101232447/https://www.theverge.com/apple/2020/10/4/21499422/apple-sues-recycling-company-reselling-ipods-ipads-watches |archive-date=2026-01-01 |access-date=2025-09-16 |website=The Verge}}</ref>

These devices were likely trade-in devices from people who received a discount on a new model in exchange. Bloomberg News writes, referring to the contract with the recycler:<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Carr |first=Austin |date=2024-04-18 |title=What Really Happens When You Trade In an iPhone at the Apple Store |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/features/2024-04-18/apple-iphone-recycling-program-has-secrets |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250829001431/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/features/2024-04-18/apple-iphone-recycling-program-has-secrets |archive-date=29 Aug 2025|access-date=2025-09-16 |website=Bloomberg}}</ref><blockquote>Even if the iPhones looked good enough for resale, Apple Inc.’s contract with GEEP (said with a hard “g”) explicitly required that every product it sent be destroyed.</blockquote>Used iPhone that are sold on the used market are a direct competition to new sales by Apple.

Apple likely does not want the public to know about these processes, since security seems to be tight around the shredding process:<blockquote>In some cases, Apple hired outside security consultants to escort trucks to its recyclers and monitor the destruction process, which the tech giant could further analyze through data reports charting scrap weights and commodity yields to ensure the input matched the output.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Carr |first=Austin |date=2025-03-17 |title=Apple Drops Lawsuit Against Recycler in Mystery of Missing iPhones |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/newsletters/2025-03-17/apple-drops-lawsuit-against-recycler-in-mystery-of-missing-iphones |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250829001416/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/newsletters/2025-03-17/apple-drops-lawsuit-against-recycler-in-mystery-of-missing-iphones |archive-date=2025-08-29 |access-date=2025-09-16 |website=Bloomberg News}}</ref></blockquote>Apple later retreated the lawsuit,<ref name=":1" /> leading to speculation that it wanted to avoid having to disclose how many devices they are really having shredded. 

====iPhone recycling robot initiative====
The first iteration of Apple's iPhone recycling robot, designed for the iPhone 6, was never more than a publicity stunt, according to an article by Bloomberg:<ref name=":0" /><blockquote>Liam’s precision automation, however, proved a dead end. It could handle just one iPhone model, and not that well. If a device had corroded screws or sticky insides, the robot would glitch. A person familiar with the project estimates Liam could run for about 10 minutes without human intervention. Another person says Apple at times fed the robot still-functioning iPhones and, for media demos, cherry-picked cleaner units so it didn’t crash, suggesting Liam was geared more for promotion than scalability.</blockquote>The same article cites industry insider claiming that the new iteration of the robot is only able to recycle as many devices in a year as Apple sells in just 48 hours.<ref name=":0" /> Thus, it can be assumed that the vast majority of trade-in devices are simply shredded.

===OS-Level age verification===
{{Main|Apple introduces OS-level age verification}}
[[File:Verificacion-de-edad-en-iOS-26.4.jpg.webp|alt=iOS 26.4 Beta Age verification|thumb|iOS 26.4 Beta Age verification]]
On February 25, 2026, Apple rolled out the iOS Beta version 26.4, in order to comply with the [[Online Safety Act]] and other similar normatives. This version contains an [[Age verification]] system built on the operating system, blocking content that could be considered as "mature", including websites. It will be rolled on the UK, Brazil, Australia, Singapore and US states of Louisiana and Utah. Site and content blocking cannot be bypassed by [[wikipedia:Virtual_Private_Network|VPNs]] as the restrictions are in the operating system itself. The current only way to prevent being blocked is by verifying by submitting info of an existing credit card. <ref>{{Cite web |date=February 24, 2026 |title=Age requirements for apps distributed in Brazil, Australia, Singapore, Utah, and Louisiana |url=https://developer.apple.com/news/?id=f5zj08ey |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260228012954/https://developer.apple.com/news/?id=f5zj08ey |archive-date=February 28, 2026 |access-date=2026-03-06 |website=Apple Devloper}}</ref>

==Products==

*[[ICloud]]
*[[:Category:Apple IPhones|iPhone]]
*iPad
*Mac
*Apple Watch
*AirPods
*Apple TV
*Apple Vision
*Apple Pencil

*[[Apple App Store]]
*[[Apple Gatekeeper]]
*[[Xcode]]

==See also==

*[[Google]]
*[[Microsoft]]
*[[Samsung]]

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:Apple]]

Nintendo

2026-03-21T05:41:06Z

2001:4BC9:82B:F663:2205:B7FF:FE00:E700: fix ref

{{Cleanup}}
{{CompanyCargo
|Description=Japanese video game developer and hardware manufacturer.
|Founded=1889
|Industry=Electronics, Entertainment Software
|Logo=Nintendo.png
|ParentCompany=
|Type=Public
|Website=https://nintendo.com/
}}

Founded in 1889, '''{{Wplink|Nintendo|Nintendo Co., Ltd.}}''' is a multi-billion-dollar video game company headquartered in Kyoto, Japan with multiple subdivisions outside of Japan. They manufacture video game consoles and handhelds, the most recent of which being the [[Nintendo Switch|Switch 2]]. Some of their best-known systems include the Wii, Nintendo 64, [[Nintendo Switch|Switch]], GameCube, and Game Boy. They are well-known for various popular video game franchises, such as ''Super Mario'', ''Donkey Kong, The Legend of Zelda'', ''Animal Crossing'', and ''Metroid''.

==Consumer impact summary==
{{See also|Apps deliberately refusing to work on modded devices}}
*'''User freedom:''' Extensive history against hardware and software modification; currently disables online functionality completely on modded consoles, which can, in some cases, effectively brick a system.
*'''User privacy:''' Historically has ignored individual consumers; confirmed to be spying on [[Nintendo Switch|Nintendo Switch 2]] hardware [[Nintendo Switch bans|to detect modifications]].
*'''Business model:''' Hardware sales, software sales, more recently subscriptions such as [[Nintendo Switch Online]] and micro-transactions.
*'''Market competition:''' Limited home console competition from [[Sony]] and [[Xbox]]; limited portable console competition coming from emulation handhelds and [[Valve]]'s ''Steam Deck''.

==Incidents==
This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:Nintendo|Nintendo category]].

===History against console emulation===
United States Copyright Law, Title 17, Chapter 1, Section 117 effectively states that making a copy of a computer program that you still own the original copy of (e.g., a video game, like Super Smash Bros. Melee) is legal if copying it is necessary in order to use the program with a machine (e.g., the Dolphin emulator) and that it isn't used in any other way, or to archive the program<ref>{{Cite web |date=2010 |title=Chapter 1: Subject Matter and Scope of Copyright, Section 117 |url=https://www.copyright.gov/title17/92chap1.html |url-status=live |access-date=31 May 2025 |website=U.S. Copyright Office |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260128125654/https://www.copyright.gov/title17/92chap1.html |archive-date=28 Jan 2026}}</ref>. Emulation is also legal in this context, as proven by ''Sony v. Connectix''<ref>{{Cite web |date=31 May 2025 |title=Sony Computer Entertainment v. Connectix Corp. |url=https://casetext.com/case/sony-computer-entertainment-v-connectix-corp-2 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250331104619/https://casetext.com/case/sony-computer-entertainment-v-connectix-corp-2 |archive-date=31 Mar 2025 |access-date=31 May 2025 |website=CaseText}}</ref> and ''Sony v. Bleem''<ref>{{Cite web |date=2 Apr 2023 |title=Sony Computer Entertainment America, Inc. v. Bleem, LLC |url=https://en.wikisource.org/wiki/Sony_Computer_Entertainment_America,_Inc._v._Bleem,_LLC |url-status=live |access-date=31 May 2025 |website=Wikisource |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250708165157/https://en.wikisource.org/wiki/Sony_Computer_Entertainment_America,_Inc._v._Bleem,_LLC |archive-date=8 Jul 2025}}</ref>. Despite this precedent, however, Nintendo is well-known for their extensive history of combating emulation of their games and hardware.

====Examples====
*In 1999, Nintendo sued Nintendo 64 emulator UltraHLE.<ref>{{Cite web |last=@Hemos |date=12 Feb 1999 |title=Nintendo Confirms It Will Sue UltraHLE Creators 96 |url=https://games.slashdot.org/story/99/02/12/0943207/nintendo-confirms-it-will-sue-ultrahle-creators |url-status=live |access-date=7 May 2025 |website=games.slashdot.org |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260210123419/https://games.slashdot.org/story/99/02/12/0943207/nintendo-confirms-it-will-sue-ultrahle-creators |archive-date=10 Feb 2026}} </ref>
*On November 19th, 2020, The Big House, a Super Smash Bros. Melee and Ultimate tournament, announced that Nintendo had sent them a cease and desist because of their use of a Super Smash Bros. Melee modification that required the use of a GameCube and Wii emulator known as Dolphin.<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |last=Robertson |first=Adi |date=20 Nov 2020 |title=Nintendo shuts down Super Smash Bros. tournament for using mods to play online |url=https://www.theverge.com/2020/11/20/21579392/nintendo-big-house-super-smash-bros-melee-tournament-slippi-cease-desist |url-status=live |access-date=31 May 2025 |website=The Verge |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251119124736/https://www.theverge.com/2020/11/20/21579392/nintendo-big-house-super-smash-bros-melee-tournament-slippi-cease-desist |archive-date=19 Nov 2025}}</ref><ref name=":5">{{Cite web |last=@TheBigHouseSSB |date=19 Nov 2020 |title=The Big House on X (Twitter) |url=https://twitter.com/TheBigHouseSSB/status/1329521081577857036 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201127080201/https://twitter.com/TheBigHouseSSB/status/1329521081577857036 |archive-date=27 Nov 2020 |access-date=31 May 2025 |website=X (Twitter)}}</ref> This led them to have to cancel the tournament. ''Full section: [https://consumerrights.wiki/Nintendo#The_Big_House_Online_Tournament_(2020) The Big House Online Tournament (2020)]''
*In 2024, Nintendo took down [[Nintendo Switch]] emulator Yuzu, as well as the Nintendo 3DS emulator Citra.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ford |first=Joseph |date=11 Apr 2024 |title=Ninten-don’t: Breaking Down the Yuzu Emulator Lawsuit |url=https://www.romanolaw.com/ninten-dont-breaking-down-the-yuzu-emulator-lawsuit/ |url-status=live |access-date=7 May 2025 |website=www.romanolaw.com |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251214050534/https://www.romanolaw.com/ninten-dont-breaking-down-the-yuzu-emulator-lawsuit/ |archive-date=14 Dec 2025}} </ref>
*Nintendo has also pressured for restrictions to access emulators, such as Dolphin's non-inclusion as a core for the [[Steam]] version of RetroArch.<ref>{{Cite web |date=20 Jul 2023 |title=What Happened to Dolphin on Steam? |url=https://it.dolphin-emu.org/blog/2023/07/20/what-happened-to-dolphin-on-steam/?cr=it |url-status=live |access-date=7 May 2025 |website=it.dolphin-emu.org |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251018002434/https://it.dolphin-emu.org/blog/2023/07/20/what-happened-to-dolphin-on-steam/?cr=it |archive-date=18 Oct 2025}}</ref>

===History against hardware modification===
<blockquote>''Further Reading: [[Game Genie lawsuit]], [[Le Hoang Minh lawsuit]], [[Team Xecuter and Gary Bowser lawsuit]], [[ModdedHardware lawsuit]], [[Nintendo's May 2025 Policy Updates]]'' 

''See also: [https://consumerrights.wiki/Nintendo#Controversial_agreements_and_policies Controversial agreements and policies]''</blockquote>Nintendo is known to frequently get into legal altercations with the creators of hardware modifications.

====Examples====
*Nintendo has sued the creators of cheat code devices, such as the Game Genie<ref>{{Cite web |last=Johnson |first=Eric E. |date=31 Dec 2007 |title=Lewis Galoob Toys, Inc. v. Nintendo of America, Inc. in the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit 964 F. 2d 965 (9th Cir. 1992) |url=https://www.museumofintellectualproperty.org/features/game_genie.html |url-status=live |access-date=7 May 2025 |website=www.museumofintellectualproperty.org |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250819003719/http://museumofintellectualproperty.org/features/game_genie.html |archive-date=19 Aug 2025}}</ref> and 10NES circumvention<ref>{{Cite web |date=1992 |title=Atari Games Corp. v. Nintendo of Am. Inc |url=https://www.copyright.gov/fair-use/summaries/atari-nintendo-fedcir1992.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=7 May 2025 |website=www.copyright.gov}}</ref> which allowed users to enter cheat codes into their games and bypass the security lockout chip to prevent [[piracy]].

*On November 18th, 2020, Nintendo of America sued Le Hoang Minh for selling RCM Loaders (plug in USB devices allowing unsigned/homebrew software to run on a Nintendo Switch), accusing him of selling piracy devices.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Carpenter |first=Nicole |date=18 Nov 2020 |title=Nintendo sues more hack sellers, ‘a worsening international problem’ |url=https://www.polygon.com/2020/11/18/21574488/nintendo-rcm-loader-jailbreak-lawsuit-switch |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201126071118/https://www.polygon.com/2020/11/18/21574488/nintendo-rcm-loader-jailbreak-lawsuit-switch |archive-date=26 Nov 2020 |access-date=22 Mar 2025 |website=Polygon}}</ref>
*On April 16th, 2021, Nintendo of America sued Gary Bowser, head of video game modchip development and sales group Team Xecuter for over $150,000, accusing him of selling piracy devices.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Carpenter |first=Nicole |date=17 Apr 2021 |title=Nintendo suing Bowser over Switch hacks |url=https://www.polygon.com/22388720/nintendo-bowser-lawsuit-team-xecuter |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210417151420/https://www.polygon.com/22388720/nintendo-bowser-lawsuit-team-xecuter |archive-date=17 Apr 2021 |access-date=22 Mar 2025 |website=Polygon}}</ref>In a subsequent criminal case, Bowser plead guilty to conspiracy to circumvent technological measures and received a 40 month sentence in prison.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-02-10 |title=Public voice and principal salesperson for notorious videogame piracy group sentenced to 3+ years in prison for conspiracy |url=https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdwa/pr/public-voice-and-principal-salesperson-notorious-videogame-piracy-group-sentenced-3 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260129010231/https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdwa/pr/public-voice-and-principal-salesperson-notorious-videogame-piracy-group-sentenced-3 |archive-date=29 Jan 2026|publisher=The United States Attorney's Office}}</ref> He was released after serving 14 months and reported to be destitute and struggling to pay rent as he owes Nintendo $14 million dollars.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Hernandez |first=Patricia |date=2024-02-01 |title=The man who owes Nintendo $14m: Gary Bowser and gaming’s most infamous piracy case |url=https://www.theguardian.com/games/2024/feb/01/the-man-who-owes-nintendo-14m-gary-bowser-and-gamings-most-infamous-piracy-case |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260222223612/https://www.theguardian.com/games/2024/feb/01/the-man-who-owes-nintendo-14m-gary-bowser-and-gamings-most-infamous-piracy-case |archive-date=22 Feb 2026|work=The Guardian}}</ref>
*On June 28th, 2024, Nintendo sued modded game seller ModdedHardware for selling [[Nintendo Switch]] flashcarts, modded [[Nintendo Switch]] consoles, and a mail-in console modding service with the argument being raised that a modded system is capable of running pirated software alongside allegations of ModdedHardware pre-installing pirated games, despite citing no evidence in the legal document.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Van der Sar |first=Ernesto |date=1 Jul 2024 |title=Nintendo Sues ‘Modded Hardware’ and r/SwitchPirates Moderator ‘Archbox’ |url=https://torrentfreak.com/nintendo-sues-modded-hardware-and-r-switchpirates-moderator-archbox-240701/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240710091021/https://torrentfreak.com/nintendo-sues-modded-hardware-and-r-switchpirates-moderator-archbox-240701/ |archive-date=10 Jul 2024 |access-date=22 Mar 2025 |website=TorrentFreak}}</ref>

*In May 2025, Nintendo updated their privacy policy<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Nintendo |title=Nintendo Privacy Policy |url=https://accounts.nintendo.com/term/privacy_policy/US?lang=en-US |access-date=May 9, 2025 |website=Nintendo Accounts |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260220174923/https://accounts.nintendo.com/term/privacy_policy/US?lang=en-US |archive-date=20 Feb 2026}}</ref> to reserve the company the right to remotely disable consoles owned by consumers if it detects modified hardware or software attempting to run on the system.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Nightingale |first=Ed |date=May 9, 2025 |title=Nintendo reserves the right to brick your console following "unauthorised use", in bid to prevent piracy |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/nintendo-reserves-the-right-to-brick-your-console-following-unauthorised-use-in-bid-to-prevent-piracy |access-date=May 9, 2025 |website=Eurogamer |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251209155123/https://www.eurogamer.net/nintendo-reserves-the-right-to-brick-your-console-following-unauthorised-use-in-bid-to-prevent-piracy |archive-date=9 Dec 2025}}</ref>
*On February 13th 2026, Nintendo issued DMCA takedown notices to several GitHub pages of popular forks of Yuzu and Ryujinx, including Eden, Citron and MeloNX. At the time of writing Eden has refused to comply to the request, stating that the project doesn't infringe on GitHub's hosting policies<ref>{{Cite web |last=Palumbo |first=Alessio |date=2026-02-16 |title=Nintendo Once Again Brings DMCA Hammer Down on Switch Emulators, But Eden Is Fighting the Notice |url=https://wccftech.com/nintendo-once-again-brings-dmca-hammer-down-switch-emulators/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-22 |website=Wccftech |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260218155928/https://wccftech.com/nintendo-once-again-brings-dmca-hammer-down-switch-emulators/ |archive-date=18 Feb 2026}}</ref>.

===De-listing/destruction of access to games===
<blockquote>''Further Reading: [[Storefront shutdown#Wii U/3DS eShops (2012–2023)]], [[Storefront shutdown#Wii Shop Channel (2006–2019)]]'' </blockquote>In late January of 2019, Nintendo shut down their first digital storefront, the Wii Shop Channel.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2019 |title=Wii Shop Channel Discontinuation |url=https://en-americas-support.nintendo.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/27560/~/wii-shop-channel-discontinuation |url-status=live |access-date=7 May 2025 |website=Nintendo Customer Support |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250913123454/https://en-americas-support.nintendo.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/27560/~/wii-shop-channel-discontinuation |archive-date=13 Sep 2025}}</ref> Super Mario 3D All-Stars was pulled from the Nintendo eShop and store shelves on March 31st, 2021. <ref>{{Cite news |last=Martinez |first=Phillip |date=2021-03-02 |title='Super Mario 3D All-Stars' and More Still to be Removed by Nintendo in March |url=https://www.newsweek.com/super-mario-3d-all-stars-35-anniversary-game-watch-nintendo-removed-1573211 |work=Newsweek |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20230328094239/https://www.newsweek.com/super-mario-3d-all-stars-35-anniversary-game-watch-nintendo-removed-1573211 |archive-date=28 Mar 2023}}</ref> Anyone who downloaded the game or purchased a physical copy was granted access past the expiration date. On March 27, 2023, Nintendo shut down the Wii U and [[Nintendo 3DS|3DS]] eShops.<ref>{{Cite web |date=Apr 2023 |title=Notice of End of Purchases in Nintendo eShop for Wii U and Nintendo 3DUpdate April 2023 |url=https://www.nintendo.com/au/support/articles/wii-u-and-nintendo-3ds-eshop-discontinuation/ |url-status=live |access-date=7 May 2025 |website=Nintendo Support |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251129140329/https://www.nintendo.com/au/support/articles/wii-u-and-nintendo-3ds-eshop-discontinuation/ |archive-date=29 Nov 2025}}</ref> These shutdowns have made it nearly impossible to legally obtain new copies for hundreds of games. Titles affected include Splatoon, Super Mario Maker, Pokémon Picross, and more.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Mar 2023 |title=These are the 1,000 digital-only 3DS and Wii U games disappearing next week |url=https://www.videogameschronicle.com/features/analysis-digital-only-wii-u-3ds-games/ |url-status=live |access-date=7 May 2025 |website=www.videogameschronicle.com |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260222131403/https://www.videogameschronicle.com/features/analysis-digital-only-wii-u-3ds-games/ |archive-date=22 Feb 2026}}</ref> As of now, over 1,000 digitally exclusive games can only be obtained through piracy, and a subset requires additional modification to run.

In early 2025, [[Nintendo Switch Online]] (NSO) delisted a game for the first time, Super Soccer.<ref>{{Cite web |last=@GVG |date=28 Feb 2025 |title=First Game Removed from Nintendo Switch Online |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PSz-wKls0Wk |url-status=live |access-date=7 May 2025 |website=[[YouTube]] |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=PSz-wKls0Wk |archive-date=23 Feb 2026}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Glagowski |first=Peter |date=28 Feb 2025 |title=Nintendo of Japan announces title will be removed from NSO library, first time since launch |url=https://nintendowire.com/news/2025/02/28/nintendo-of-japan-announces-title-will-be-removed-from-nso-library-first-time-since-launch/ |url-status=live |access-date=7 May 2025 |website=Nintendo Wire |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251107095355/https://nintendowire.com/news/2025/02/28/nintendo-of-japan-announces-title-will-be-removed-from-nso-library-first-time-since-launch/ |archive-date=7 Nov 2025}}</ref> With the previously mentioned events of delisting of products a consumer owns for their consoles, such as a physical game on disc or a previously downloaded digital title, consumers still had the ability to play these games, and in some instances, even reinstall them. However, with [[Nintendo Switch Online|NSO]] acting as a [[streaming service]] for games it provides to consumers, when a title is delisted, consumers completely and totally lose access to the game, unless the company who requested the title to be delisted were to re-list the game on the service. This event has caused rightful concern among consumers, because this may set a dangerous precedent for access to retro games in the future.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Flores Jr. |first=Johnny |date=1 Mar 2025 |title=Nintendo Is Delisting A Game From The Switch Online Library For The First Time |url=https://www.thegamer.com/nintendo-delisting-snes-game-from-switch-online-library/ |url-status=live |access-date=7 May 2025 |website=The Gamer |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251018224820/https://www.thegamer.com/nintendo-delisting-snes-game-from-switch-online-library/ |archive-date=18 Oct 2025}}</ref>

===Nintendo authorized repair===
<blockquote>Further Reading: [[Nintendo authorized repair]]

[[Nintendo refuses to repair water damaged Switch 2 console]]</blockquote>A man sent in their Nintendo Switch to Nintendo for repair of a broken charging port and was given an estimate of £132 (161.51 USD) to replace the entire motherboard, which would result in data loss and noted screen damage. This was despite the only damage to the console being to the charging port and a screen protector, and not the screen itself.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Rossmann |first=Louis |date=31 Jul 2021 |title=Why Nintendo authorized repair sucks: the incentives are at odds with a good repair experience |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UxKJn35DK8k |url-status=live |access-date=7 May 2025 |website=[[YouTube]] |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=UxKJn35DK8k |archive-date=23 Feb 2026}}</ref>  

======Rust in new units of Switch 2======
Around early-mid July 2025 there have been findings of brand new Nintendo Switch 2 having rust on internal components.

On June 30th, 2025 a YouTube channel "BGA TECH ASSISTÊNCIA E TECNOLOGIA" uploaded a video titled "Swich 2 vs Oled, Technical Review, weight, motherboard, which has the biggest battery?". During the process of disassembly of the new device they discovered rust on an internal component (which can be seen in the video at around 17:16). <ref>{{Cite web |date=June 30, 2025 |title=Swich 2 vs Oled, Technical Review, weight, motherboard, which has the biggest battery? |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xj_ne2cL_-U&t=1036s |website=youtube.com}}</ref>

On July 8th, 2025 a Nintendo customer made a post on Reddit<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-07-08 |title=Bricked Switch 2, Nintendo claiming water damage |url=https://old.reddit.com/r/consolerepair/comments/1lugq83/bricked_switch_2_nintendo_claiming_water_damage/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250715124737/https://old.reddit.com/r/consolerepair/comments/1lugq83/bricked_switch_2_nintendo_claiming_water_damage/ |archive-date=2025-07-15 |website=reddit.com}}</ref> describing how Nintendo refused to repair a defective device under warranty. In this case, customer's device stopped turning on about a week after a purchase, but it still kept drawing some power. Customer sent the device to Nintendo for repairs. Nintendo replied that "CPU and LCD housing were corroded due to water damage", refused to repair device free of charge under "twelve (12) month from the day of purchase" limited warranty<ref>{{Cite web |title=Warranty and Service Information |url=https://en-americas-support.nintendo.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/50404 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250708231402/https://en-americas-support.nintendo.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/50404 |archive-date=2025-07-08 |website=nintendo.com}}</ref> and wanted to charge customer around 35,000 yen (~$240) for a repair. Nintendo also confirmed that water damage indicator stickers did NOT change color. Customer refused receiving a repair, received unit back and made an unboxing video of this device. <ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-07-13 |title=Unboxing my DEAD Switch 2 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K7Z4sWJK2J8 |website=youtube.com |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=K7Z4sWJK2J8 |archive-date=23 Feb 2026}}</ref>

===Joy-Con and joystick-related hardware failures===
[[Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons|Joy-Cons]] are the included controllers (retailing for $80) for the Nintendo Switch, and they are prone to failure via "stick drift" within a few months of purchase. According to the 2022 study by the British consumer protection group '''Which?''<nowiki/>', 40% of [[Nintendo Switch]] owners experienced [[Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons|Joy-Con]] drift.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Laughlin |first=Andrew |date=14 Jun 2022 |title=Two in five UK Nintendo Switch Classic consoles blighted by Joy-Con drift |url=https://www.which.co.uk/news/article/two-in-five-uk-nintendo-switch-classic-consoles-blighted-by-joy-con-drift-aVaRY2j5RoO8 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220626212228/https://www.which.co.uk/news/article/two-in-five-uk-nintendo-switch-classic-consoles-blighted-by-joy-con-drift-aVaRY2j5RoO8 |archive-date=26 Jun 2022 |access-date=1 Jun 2025 |website=Which?}}</ref> This defect is also found in other official Nintendo controllers, like the Pro Controller (Pro-Cons), and the Switch Lite, a version of the Nintendo Switch that has its Joy-Cons built into the handheld system. Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa apologized for the "inconvenience" and subsequently launched Nintendo's "free repair program."

The way the "free repair program" works is that the user will send the defective [[Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons|Joy-Cons]] to Nintendo for "repair," which, in most cases, involves replacing the defective [[Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons|Joy-Cons]] with new ones. The problem arises in cases involving limited edition [[Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons|Joy-Cons]], where you have to sign off on consenting to the possibility of your limited edition or "non-standard colored" [[Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons|Joy-Cons]] being replaced with a standard color [[Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons|Joy-Con]] if they are sent to Nintendo for "repair." This leaves consumers with these limited edition [[Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons|Joy-Cons]] without a guaranteed way to get their products repaired if they use Nintendo's official repair service.

The "free repair program" is not available in the [[wikipedia:Nordic_countries|Nordic countries]] as Nintendo does not directly distribute their product there. Instead, Nintendo products are distributed by [[wikipedia:Bergsala|Bersala AB]] whom does not recognise the existence of a widespread issue and will charge around $40 for the repair unless the console is still under the 2 years warranty. To qualify for the warranty, the console must have been purchased from an approved local retailer. Hardware purchased on online retailers like Amazon do not qualify and customers are forced to pay full price for repairs.

Historically, Nintendo's faulty joysticks date back to the Nintendo 64. The N64 gamepad's design, which used gears and optical encoder wheels,<ref>{{Cite web |last=u/PliskinBOI |date=Apr 20, 2024 |title=How is the 64 for longevity? |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/n64/comments/1c8wneq/comment/l0hvu2i/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web3x&utm_name=web3xcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button |access-date=Feb 17, 2026 |website=[[Reddit]]}}</ref> led to easy part degradation ever since launch,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Slindee |first=Brittany |date=Sep 6, 2024 |title=Nintendo 64 Controller Joystick Repair |url=https://www.ifixit.com/Guide/Nintendo+64+Controller+Joystick+Repair/51581 |access-date=Feb 17, 2026 |website=ifixit |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250804145139/https://www.ifixit.com/Guide/Nintendo+64+Controller+Joystick+Repair/51581 |archive-date=4 Aug 2025}}</ref><ref name=":6">{{Cite web |last=Rerez |date=Mar 1, 2025 |title=Amazing Hall Effect Controllers! - Rerez |url=https://youtu.be/Fxfb7pAyW18 |access-date=Feb 17, 2025 |website=[[YouTube]] |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=Fxfb7pAyW18 |archive-date=23 Feb 2026}}</ref> leading to games that heavily relied upon the joystick input, such as Super Mario 64, to become virtually unplayable.<ref name=":6" />

===The Big House Online Tournament (''2020'')===
On November 19th, 2020, The Big House, a Super Smash Brothers Melee and Ultimate tournament, announced on X (formerly known as Twitter) that they had received a cease and desist from Nintendo of America, and would be forced to cancel the tournament.<ref name=":5" /> Nintendo had told The Big House that they were not allowed to host their online tournament because of their use of a game modification. The modification was Slippi, which runs through a GameCube and Wii emulator called Dolphin to enable online functionality for Super Smash Bros. Melee.<ref>{{Cite web |title=About - What is Slippi? |url=https://slippi.gg/about |url-status=live |access-date=31 May 2025 |website=Slippi.gg |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250825163703/https://slippi.gg/about |archive-date=25 Aug 2025}}</ref>

Because of the COVID-19 Pandemic, The Big House tournament was going to be run online primarily for attendees' safety. Melee is a video game from 2001 that does not have built-in online functionality, so it would have been impossible to run an online tournament for it without the use of modifications. A Nintendo of America spokesperson claimed that the cease and desist was issued to "protect [Nintendo's] intellectual property and brands". The spokesperson also stated that allowing the tournament to run would "condone or allow piracy of [Nintendo's] intellectual property". In other words, the spokesperson claimed that using Slippi would have required the use of pirated copies of Melee<ref name=":4" />, despite the fact that professional Melee players typically play legitimate copies of the game on official hardware to practice and compete.

===Etika JOYCONBOYZ Charity Shutdown (''2020'')===
On or around June 19, 2019, popular YouTuber Desmond Daniel Amofah known by his YouTube username Etika was found deceased after having committed suicide following a series of mental health issues. He was known for his livestream reactions to Nintendo's online events such as Nintendo Direct presentations. Known for his over-the-top reaction style, his fanbase became unofficially known as the "JOYCONBOYZ". Among tributes following his passing, fellow YouTuber JoyConJames created custom shells for the Nintendo Switch Joy-Con controllers known as Etikons which contained the official fan phrase "JOYCONBOYZ" printed on them with a proceed of sales for each shell going to mental health awareness and mental health research facilities. On December 6, 2020, JoyConJames uploaded a YouTube video announcing that he had received a cease and desist (C&D) notice from Nintendo prohibiting him from selling the Joy-Con skins. The notion that the skins were being sold for charity and in honor of a fan of Nintendo and their work drew anger and criticism from the company's fan base.<ref>{{cite web |title=Custom Joy-Cons That Honor Deceased YouTuber Shut Down By Nintendo |url=https://screenrant.com/nintendo-switch-joycon-etika-joyconboyz-shut-down-charity/ |url-status=live |access-date=13 Aug 2025 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20230524211510/https://screenrant.com/nintendo-switch-joycon-etika-joyconboyz-shut-down-charity/ |archive-date=24 May 2023}}</ref>

===Nintendo V. Pocketpair (''2024'')===
Nintendo is suing Pocketpair, the developers of the extremely popular video game Palworld,<ref>{{Cite web |last=@Palworld_EN |date=19 Sep 2024 |title=Palworld_EN on X |url=https://x.com/Palworld_EN/status/1836692701355688146 |url-status=live |access-date=7 May 2025 |website=X |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260208181711/https://x.com/Palworld_EN/status/1836692701355688146 |archive-date=8 Feb 2026}}</ref> for patent infringement, despite filing the patent after Palworld was already released to the public.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2 May 2024 |title=US Patent Application for STORAGE MEDIUM STORING GAME PROGRAM, GAME SYSTEM, GAME APPARATUS, AND GAME PROCESSING METHOD Patent Application (Application #20240278129) |url=https://patents.justia.com/patent/20240278129 |url-status=live |access-date=7 May 2025 |website=patents.justia.com |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260113224853/https://patents.justia.com/patent/20240278129 |archive-date=13 Jan 2026}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=@PirateSoftware |date=17 Oct 2024 |title=Palworld Lawsuit |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c4ZZx4wiofw |url-status=live |access-date=7 May 2025 |website=[[YouTube]] |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=c4ZZx4wiofw |archive-date=23 Feb 2026}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=12 Feb 2025 |title=Nintendo Anti-Palworld Patent and Seeks More |url=https://gamerant.com/nintendo-anti-palworld-patents-uspto-infringement-lawsuit-implications/ |url-status=live |access-date=7 May 2025 |website=GameRant |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251101171524/https://gamerant.com/nintendo-anti-palworld-patents-uspto-infringement-lawsuit-implications/ |archive-date=1 Nov 2025}}</ref>

===Nintendo Creators Program===
{{Main|Nintendo Creators Program}}
In 2013, Nintendo placed advertisements on let's play videos where their games were played, taking 100% of all revenue made by said adverts.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Plunkett |first=Luke |date=15 May 2013 |title=Nintendo Forcing Ads On Some YouTube "Let's Play" Videos |url=https://kotaku.com/nintendo-forcing-ads-on-some-youtube-lets-play-video-507092383 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130607222601/https://kotaku.com/nintendo-forcing-ads-on-some-youtube-lets-play-video-507092383 |archive-date=7 Jun 2013 |access-date=22 Mar 2025 |website=Kotaku}}</ref> In 2015, Nintendo started a YouTube partnership program, which required the removal of all non-Nintendo related videos on the channel, creators being given 60% of revenue per video or 70% of the channel's gross revenue. The program only allowed games on an internal Nintendo-made whitelist which infamously lacked multiple large/popular releases of the time.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Orland |first=Kyle |date=29 Jan 2015 |title=Nintendo to share up to 70 percent of ad revenue with game YouTubers |url=https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2015/01/nintendo-to-share-up-to-70-percent-of-ad-revenue-with-game-youtubers/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150208085014/https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2015/01/nintendo-to-share-up-to-70-percent-of-ad-revenue-with-game-youtubers/ |archive-date=8 Feb 2015 |access-date=22 Mar 2025 |website=ArsTechnica}}</ref> In 2017, Nintendo announced that live streaming wasn't allowed for creators in their Creator Program.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Orland |first=Kyle |date=2 Oct 2017 |title=Nintendo no longer welcoming YouTube livestreams of its games |url=https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2017/10/nintendo-cuts-off-ad-program-for-youtube-livestreamers/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171004040443/https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2017/10/nintendo-cuts-off-ad-program-for-youtube-livestreamers/ |archive-date=4 Oct 2017 |access-date=22 Mar 2025 |website=ArsTechnica}}</ref> It ended in 2018<ref>{{Cite web |last=Orland |first=Kyle |date=29 Nov 2018 |title=Nintendo ends controversial YouTube revenue-sharing program |url=https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2018/11/nintendo-loosens-content-restrictions-ends-revenue-splitting-for-video-makers/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181130073206/https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2018/11/nintendo-loosens-content-restrictions-ends-revenue-splitting-for-video-makers/ |archive-date=30 Nov 2018 |access-date=22 Mar 2025 |website=ArsTechnica}}</ref>, with Nintendo stating they “encourage you to create videos that include your creative input and commentary” and that “Videos and images that contain mere copies of Nintendo Game Content without creative input or commentary are not permitted.”<ref>{{Cite web |first= |date=2 Sep 2024 |title=Nintendo Game Content Guidelines for Online Video & Image Sharing Platforms |url=https://www.nintendo.co.jp/networkservice_guideline/en/index.html?n |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250322224418/https://www.nintendo.co.jp/networkservice_guideline/en/index.html?n |archive-date=22 Mar 2025 |access-date=22 Mar 2025 |website=Nintendo}}</ref>

===Nintendo Switch 2 USB-C port anti-competitiveness===
Nintendo Switch 2 and its dock transfer information like all other USB-C connections, but they will talk in code effectively denying all other connections seeking to display video. Research from The Verge has shown that this language is almost exclusive to the Switch 2, but did find one notable exception: the Antank S3 Max TV dock at the lower price point of $29.99. <ref>{{Cite web |last=Hollister |first=Sean |date=2025-07-02 |title=How Nintendo locked down the Switch 2’s USB-C port and broke third-party docking {{!}} The Verge |url=https://www.theverge.com/report/695915/switch-2-usb-c-third-party-docks-dont-work-authentication-encryption |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250717114136/https://www.theverge.com/report/695915/switch-2-usb-c-third-party-docks-dont-work-authentication-encryption |archive-date=2025-07-17 |website=The Verge}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Antank S3 MAX TV Dock Station for Nintendo Switch 2 -- Antank Official Store |url=https://antank.net/products/s3-max?srsltid=AfmBOoqng_pXTXBmI-2YvHnJ4xniibP4VL8ovodbh-w5IPSgdrSGiDUE |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250816195135/https://antank.net/products/s3-max?srsltid=AfmBOoqng_pXTXBmI-2YvHnJ4xniibP4VL8ovodbh-w5IPSgdrSGiDUE |archive-date=2025-08-16 |website=Antank}}</ref> In practice, this means Nintendo has a near monopoly on docks and it would be possible for them to enact a firmware update to stop all independent companies who may have found a way to make their technology compatible. <ref>{{Cite web |last=Khullar |first=Kunal |date=2025-07-03 |title=Nintendo is restricting the Switch 2's USB-C port — most third-party docks and accessories won't work thanks to proprietary protocols |url=https://www.tomshardware.com/video-games/nintendo/nintendo-is-restricting-the-switch-2s-usb-c-port-most-third-party-docks-and-accessories-wont-work-thanks-to-proprietary-protocols |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250816194217/https://www.tomshardware.com/video-games/nintendo/nintendo-is-restricting-the-switch-2s-usb-c-port-most-third-party-docks-and-accessories-wont-work-thanks-to-proprietary-protocols |archive-date=2025-08-16 |website=Tom's Hardware}}</ref> To buy an official Nintendo Switch 2 dock from the Nintendo store it costs $124.99 and many customers would prefer a cheaper alternative. <ref>{{Cite web |title=Nintendo Switch 2 Dock Set - Nintendo Official Site |url=https://www.nintendo.com/us/store/products/nintendo-switch-2-dock-set-123791/?srsltid=AfmBOoq7cJk9ApjZW8IBGczhFHnf4gINg7U8BJsMyi5GH-wr_K-0TVf4 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250816193742/https://www.nintendo.com/us/store/products/nintendo-switch-2-dock-set-123791/?srsltid=AfmBOoq7cJk9ApjZW8IBGczhFHnf4gINg7U8BJsMyi5GH-wr_K-0TVf4 |archive-date=2025-08-16 |website=Nintendo}}</ref> Customers report the device's Ethernet port occasionally disconnects and others say it can overheat due to the poor design blocking ventilation. <ref>{{Cite web |last=Corsetti |first=Adam |date=2025-07-03 |title=USB-C port testing explains why a third-party Nintendo Switch 2 dock won't work with console - NotebookCheck.net News |url=https://www.notebookcheck.net/USB-C-port-testing-explains-why-a-third-party-Nintendo-Switch-2-dock-won-t-work-with-console.1049869.0.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250816200245/https://www.notebookcheck.net/USB-C-port-testing-explains-why-a-third-party-Nintendo-Switch-2-dock-won-t-work-with-console.1049869.0.html |archive-date=2025-08-16 |website=Notebook Check}}</ref>

USB-C port restrictions in order to halt third-party competition with docks and other accessories. These restrictions are caused by encrypted communications between the official dock and the console, as 3rd-party devices use a universal standard that Nintendo refuses to use.

On the 10th of November 2025, multiple users across social media started to report that a firmware update pushed to their consoles broke compatibility with Third-Party dock accessories<ref>{{Cite news |last=Corsetti |first=Adam |date= |title=Third-party Switch 2 docks stop working after firmware update, but accessory makers fight back |url=https://www.notebookcheck.net/Third-party-Switch-2-docks-stop-working-after-firmware-update-but-accessory-makers-fight-back.1161611.0.html |url-status=live |work=NotebookCheck |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260219114957/https://www.notebookcheck.net/Third-party-Switch-2-docks-stop-working-after-firmware-update-but-accessory-makers-fight-back.1161611.0.html |archive-date=19 Feb 2026}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Cubbins |first=Dwayne |title=Nintendo Switch 2 update 21.0.0 is breaking third‑party docks |url=https://piunikaweb.com/2025/11/12/switch-2-update-21-0-0-breaking-third%E2%80%91party-docks/ |url-status=live |work=PiunikaWeb |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251218100521/https://piunikaweb.com/2025/11/12/switch-2-update-21-0-0-breaking-third%e2%80%91party-docks/ |archive-date=18 Dec 2025}}</ref>

===Controversial agreements and policies (''2025'')===
{{Main|Nintendo's May 2025 Policy Updates}}
On May 8th, 2025, Nintendo changed their privacy policy<ref name="PrivacyPolicyMain">{{Cite web |title=Nintendo Privacy Policy |url=https://accounts.nintendo.com/term/privacy_policy/US?lang=en-US |access-date=May 15, 2025 |website=Nintendo Accounts |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260220174923/https://accounts.nintendo.com/term/privacy_policy/US?lang=en-US |archive-date=20 Feb 2026}}</ref><ref name="PrivacyPolicySummaryChanges">{{Cite web |title=Nintendo Privacy Policy - What's Changed? |url=https://www.nintendo.com/us/privacy-policy/whats-changed/ |access-date=May 15, 2025 |website=Nintendo |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251225105911/https://www.nintendo.com/us/privacy-policy/whats-changed/ |archive-date=25 Dec 2025}}</ref> and Nintendo Account User Agreement,<ref name="EULAMain2">{{Cite web |title=Nintendo Account User Agreement |url=https://accounts.nintendo.com/term/eula/US?lang=en-US |access-date=May 15, 2025 |website=Nintendo Accounts |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260124002620/https://accounts.nintendo.com/term/eula/US?lang=en-US |archive-date=24 Jan 2026}}</ref> with features inside both which have the potential to negatively impact consumers. Highlights such as Section 6 (Adherence to content guidelines), Section 13 (reservation to render hardware/software inaccessible), and section 16 (forced arbitration) are key features that come to the risk of right to ownership of hardware and software that consumers may have paid for.

Considerable backlash occurred especially over section 13, as both consumers<ref name="RunNGameYouTube">{{Cite web |last=Run N Game Entertainment |date=May 13, 2025 |title=Is Nintendo breaking the law? |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0hOiD-lvaok |access-date=May 14, 2025 |website=YouTube |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=0hOiD-lvaok |archive-date=23 Feb 2026}}</ref><ref name="FashoKangYouTube">{{Cite web |last=Fasho |first=Kang |date=May 11, 2025 |title=The Switch 2 will RUIN Gaming [Full Controversy Explained] (Angry Rant) |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0P8Pv97mt8U |access-date=May 14, 2025 |website=YouTube |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=0P8Pv97mt8U |archive-date=23 Feb 2026}}</ref><ref name="NintenDeenYouTube">{{Cite web |last=NintenDeen |date=May 9, 2025 |title=Console Bans |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v1H6cKTNxKM |access-date=May 14, 2025 |website=YouTube |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=v1H6cKTNxKM |archive-date=23 Feb 2026}}</ref> and outlets<ref name="EurogamerBricking2025">{{Cite web |last=Nightingale |first=Ed |date=May 9, 2025 |title=Nintendo reserves the right to brick your console following "unauthorised use", in bid to prevent piracy |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/nintendo-reserves-the-right-to-brick-your-console-following-unauthorised-use-in-bid-to-prevent-piracy |access-date=May 9, 2025 |website=Eurogamer |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251209155123/https://www.eurogamer.net/nintendo-reserves-the-right-to-brick-your-console-following-unauthorised-use-in-bid-to-prevent-piracy |archive-date=9 Dec 2025}}</ref><ref name="GameFileEffectiveDate">{{Cite news |last=Totilo |first=Stephen |date=May 8, 2025 |title=Nintendo warns it may brick Switch systems whose users “bypass, modify, decrypt, defeat, tamper with” their games and services |url=https://www.gamefile.news/p/nintendo-emulation-hacking-brick-warning-terms-of-service |access-date=May 15, 2025 |work=Game File |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260101130818/https://www.gamefile.news/p/nintendo-emulation-hacking-brick-warning-terms-of-service |archive-date=1 Jan 2026}}</ref> believe this means Nintendo reserved the right to effectively "brick" consoles such as the [[Nintendo Switch]] or its successor.<ref name=":1" /> This also may concern repair shops, as they may be required to instead purchase proprietary repair software from Nintendo to run diagnostics for the console, or otherwise risk bricking the console running personal/community-developed software.

===Deliberately locking Switch 2 consoles behind an online-only patch===
Users have reported Switch 2 consoles being in stock in some stores,<ref>{{Cite news |last=Reynolds |first=Ollie |date=May 26, 2025 |title=US Retailers Are Reportedly Starting To Receive Switch 2 Stock |url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2025/05/us-retailers-are-reportedly-starting-to-receive-switch-2-stock |access-date=May 28, 2025 |work=Nintendo Life |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251004103421/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2025/05/us-retailers-are-reportedly-starting-to-receive-switch-2-stock |archive-date=4 Oct 2025}}</ref><ref name=":2">{{Cite web |last=Alleexxi |date=May 27, 2025 |title=The Nintendo Switch 2 is already in end users' hands. {{!}} Switch Locked behind Day 1 Patch |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/NintendoSwitch2/comments/1kwv8go/the_nintendo_switch_2_is_already_in_end_users/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250527185423/https://www.reddit.com/r/NintendoSwitch2/comments/1kwv8go/the_nintendo_switch_2_is_already_in_end_users/ |archive-date=May 27, 2025 |access-date=May 28, 2025 |website=[[Reddit]]}}</ref> however for these users who did get their hands on the console early among a multitude of reasons, these consoles are locked behind a patch that requires an internet connection to Nintendo servers to use the consoles.<ref name=":2" /><ref name=":3">{{Cite web |last=Kent |first=Bobby |date=May 27, 2025 |title=Nintendo Switch 2 Gets Out Early, But It’s Locked Behind A Day 1 Patch |url=https://gameluster.com/nintendo-switch-2-gets-out-early-but-its-locked-behind-a-day-1-patch/ |access-date=May 28, 2025 |website=Game Luster |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251018205440/https://gameluster.com/nintendo-switch-2-gets-out-early-but-its-locked-behind-a-day-1-patch/ |archive-date=18 Oct 2025}}</ref> While this is a measure used to deter piracy ahead of the system's launch,<ref name=":3" /> this does mean that users will be required to connect to the internet to have any viable console functionality post-launch.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Drake |first=John |date=May 27, 2025 |title=Early Leak of Nintendo Switch 2 Get Locked Out By Day 1 Patch |url=https://gurugamer.com/pc-console/early-leak-of-nintendo-switch-2-get-locked-out-by-day-1-patch-24742 |access-date=May 28, 2025 |work=Guru Gamer |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251018062937/https://gurugamer.com/pc-console/early-leak-of-nintendo-switch-2-get-locked-out-by-day-1-patch-24742 |archive-date=18 Oct 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Hagues |first=Alana |date=May 27, 2025 |title=Switch 2 Units Are Allegedly Out In The Wild, But You Might Need An Update For Switch 1 Games |url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2025/05/switch-2-units-are-allegedly-out-in-the-wild-but-you-might-need-an-update-for-switch-1-games |access-date=May 28, 2025 |work=Nintendo Life |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251004103412/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2025/05/switch-2-units-are-allegedly-out-in-the-wild-but-you-might-need-an-update-for-switch-1-games |archive-date=4 Oct 2025}}</ref>

===Console bans stripping vital features===
{{Main|Nintendo Switch bans}}
There have been reports from users that the usage of the MIG Switch cartridge on the [[Nintendo Switch|''Nintendo Switch 2'']] will cause the device to be banned from all online services provided to the console,<ref name=":32">{{Cite web |last=Scattered Brain |date=Jun 16, 2025 |title=Soo... Nintendo banned my Switch 2 (Don't try the MIG Switch!) |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ExgYTA18_vo&t=656s |access-date=Jun 18, 2025 |website=[[YouTube]] |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=ExgYTA18_vo |archive-date=23 Feb 2026}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last=Faulkner |first=Cameron |date=Jun 17, 2025 |title=Nintendo will take your Switch 2 offline forever if you use a Mig flash cartridge |url=https://www.theverge.com/news/688483/nintendo-switch-2-ban-error-code-mig-flash-cartridge-online |journal=The Verge |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260220181734/https://www.theverge.com/news/688483/nintendo-switch-2-ban-error-code-mig-flash-cartridge-online |archive-date=20 Feb 2026}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Ratchet Mods |date=Jun 20, 2025 |title=Nintendo BRICKS MIG Flash user's Switch 2 - The Difference between banning a Switch and BRICKING it |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rn4969P2RIA |access-date=Jun 20, 2025 |website=[[YouTube]] |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=rn4969P2RIA |archive-date=23 Feb 2026}}</ref> regardless of the usage of the cartridge for legitimately dumped software, homebrew, or otherwise. Compared to previous console generations, the online bans on the [[Nintendo Switch|''Nintendo Switch 2'']] will cause a soft-brick, as vital features such as the ''eShop'' or factory resetting the device are permanently disabled. <ref name=":02">{{Cite news |last=Orland |first=Kyle |date=Jun 17, 2025 |title=Switch 2 users report online console bans after running personal game “backups” |url=https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2025/06/playing-personal-game-backups-could-get-your-switch-2-banned-by-nintendo/ |access-date=Jun 19, 2025 |work=Ars Technica |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251222013641/https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2025/06/playing-personal-game-backups-could-get-your-switch-2-banned-by-nintendo/ |archive-date=22 Dec 2025}}</ref>

The disabling of the ''eShop'' in particular means the console cannot download games or updates, and in particular disables the functionality of [[Switch Game Key-Card|game-key cards]], which require access to the ''eShop'' to be capable of downloading the game.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Cohen |first=Jason |date=Jun 5, 2025 |title=Buying Physical? Watch Out For the Switch 2's Game-Key Cards |url=https://www.pcmag.com/explainers/nintendo-switch-2-game-cards-vs-game-key-cards-vs-downloads-whats-the-difference |access-date=Jun 18, 2025 |work=PC Mag |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251228142102/https://www.pcmag.com/explainers/nintendo-switch-2-game-cards-vs-game-key-cards-vs-downloads-whats-the-difference |archive-date=28 Dec 2025}}</ref>

===Patented gameplay mechanics (''2025'')===
In September 2025, Nintendo and The Pokémon Company were granted U.S. patent [https://archive.org/details/12403397/page/n1/mode/2up US 12,403,397 B2], which covered a method of summoning a secondary character and instantly initiating a "fast mode" battle when an enemy occupies the location. While seemingly narrow, critics warn the wording is broad enough to overlap with common mechanics in MMORPGs, action RPGs, and other real-time combat games. Observers argue that enforcing such a patent could stifle creativity, complicate development of similar features in future titles, and even create legal uncertainty for existing games that already use comparable encounter or companion-summoning systems.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-09-10 |title=Patent No.: US 12,403,397 B2 |url=https://archive.org/details/12403397/page/n1/mode/2up}}</ref>

===Virtual Boy for Switch Online requires paid accessory===
In September, 2025, Nintendo announced that its ill-fated Virtual Boy would be the newest system added to its Switch online game streaming service. The other system collections have also been offered as free downloads to members of the Nintendo Switch Online subscription service. The Virtual Boy collection was similarly offered for free, but Nintendo also revealed that a required accessory would need to be purchased to make use of the Virtual Boy collection. They offered an option of a $99 replica of the original Virtual Boy device or a $20 cardboard headset. Use of either of these accessories is required to properly play the Virtual Boy Collection as the companion app was not designed with an option to disable the 3D graphics and is also not compatible with a TV by docking the Switch console.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-09-12 |title=Nintendo Switch is getting a Virtual Boy accessory and Switch Online games |url=https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/nintendo-switch-is-getting-a-virtual-boy-accessory-and-switch-online-games/ |access-date=2026-02-17}} ([http://web.archive.org/web/20260120001906/https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/nintendo-switch-is-getting-a-virtual-boy-accessory-and-switch-online-games/ Archived])</ref> Software emulators fans created for Nintendo's prior Nintendo 3DS console can render the Virtual Boy graphics with the use of the system's auto-stereoscopic 3D display along with allowing the 3D graphics to be disabled by using the system's existing 3D slider. Nintendo also posted an incorrect statement to social media that their existing product, the Nintendo Labo VR Headset, would be compatible with the Virtual Boy collection.

==Products==

===Console Hardware===

*[[Nintendo 3DS|3DS/2DS]]
*Nintendo Wii U
*[[Nintendo Switch]]/Switch 2

===Console peripherals/add-ons===

*[[Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons|Joy-Con]]
*[[Switch Pro Controller]]
*[[Switch Game Key-Card]]

===Software===

*[[Nintendo Switch Online]]

==References==
{{reflist}}
[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]

Nintendo Switch Online

2026-03-21T05:35:24Z

2001:4BC9:82B:F663:2205:B7FF:FE00:E700: fix url

{{Stub}}
{{ProductCargo
|ArticleType=Service
|Category=Online Gaming
|Company=Nintendo
|Description=
|InProduction=Yes
|Logo=Nintendo Switch Online
|ProductLine=Nintendo Switch
|ReleaseYear=2018
|Website=https://www.nintendo.com/us/online/
}}

Nintendo Switch Online (or NSO for short), is a paid online gaming subscription service for the [[Nintendo Switch]] and [[Nintendo Switch|Nintendo Switch 2]],<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=Nintendo Switch Online — Overview |url=https://www.nintendo.com/en-gb/Nintendo-Switch-Online/Nintendo-Switch-Online-Overview-1183143.html |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260122023348/https://www.nintendo.com/en-gb/Nintendo-Switch-Online/Nintendo-Switch-Online-Overview-1183143.html |archive-date=22 Jan 2026}}</ref> similar to [[PlayStation Network]] on the [[PlayStation]] consoles and [[Xbox Live]] on [[Xbox]] consoles. It was introduced in September of 2018<ref>{{Cite web |date=2018-09-12 |title="The Nintendo Switch online service is launching on September 18th" |url=https://www.theverge.com/2018/9/12/17850516/nintendo-switch-online-service-release-date |url-status=unfit |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201109033627/https://www.theverge.com/2018/9/12/17850516/nintendo-switch-online-service-release-date |archive-date=2020-11-09 |access-date=2025-08-16 |website=The Verge}}</ref>, roughly a year after the Nintendo Switch's launch. At which time, games that used to have their online multiplayer functions accessible for free were locked behind this subscription service.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2017-06-02 |title="Nintendo Switch online service pushed back to 2018 |url=https://www.gamesindustry.biz/nintendo-switch-online-service-to-launch-in-2018 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201124013853/https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2017-06-02-nintendo-switch-online-service-to-launch-in-2018 |archive-date=2020-11-24 |access-date=2025-08-16 |website=gamesindustry.biz}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=What online games can you play without switch online? |url=https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/wiki/what-online-games-can-you-play-without-switch-online/}}</ref> The service also includes access to other things such as saving to the cloud, Nintendo Music, GameChat (Nintendo's new voice chat system introduced with the Nintendo Switch 2<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-08-19 |title=Nintendo Switch 2 Gamechat |url=https://www.nintendo.com/us/gaming-systems/switch-2/features/gamechat/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250819130515/https://www.nintendo.com/us/gaming-systems/switch-2/features/gamechat/ |archive-date=2025-08-19 |access-date=2025-08-19 |website=Nintendo}}</ref>), and playing older Nintendo games from the NES/Famicom, SNES/Super Famicom, and Game Boy.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |date=2025-08-19 |title=Compare Nintendo Switch Online Memberships |url=https://www.nintendo.com/us/online/compare-memberships/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250819125044/https://www.nintendo.com/us/online/compare-memberships/ |archive-date=2025-08-19 |access-date=2025-08-19 |website=Nintendo}}</ref>

Nintendo offers the base subscription pack at either a free 7-day trial, once monthly (3.99), once every 3 months (7.99), or once ever year (19.99). Nintendo also offers a Family subscription pack exclusively yearly for $34.99.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Memberships {{!}} Nintendo Switch Online |url=https://ec.nintendo.com/US/en/membership/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250729043936/https://ec.nintendo.com/US/en/membership/ |archive-date=2025-07-29 |access-date=2025-08-19 |website=Nintendo}}</ref> The family pack allows for up to 8 accounts to be connected on one plan.<ref name=":1" /> (More research needed on why the expansion pack and family subscription packs are only available yearly)

Some users have been banned from all online services, including Nintendo Switch Online after hacking their consoles.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Petite |first=Steven |date=May 22, 2018 |title=Nintendo starts banning Switch hackers from online services |url=https://www.digitaltrends.com/gaming/nintendo-starts-banning-switch-hackers/ |access-date=August 16, 2025 |work=digitaltrends |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250916131130/https://www.digitaltrends.com/gaming/nintendo-starts-banning-switch-hackers/ |archive-date=16 Sep 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Doolan |first=Liam |date=June 17, 2025 |title=Nintendo Reportedly Banning Switch 2's Using MIG Cartridges |url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2025/06/nintendo-reportedly-banning-switch-2s-using-mig-cartridges?s=09 |work=Nintendo Life |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251004103627/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2025/06/nintendo-reportedly-banning-switch-2s-using-mig-cartridges?s=09 |archive-date=4 Oct 2025}}</ref>

==Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack==
Unlike the base subscription Nintendo prices the NSO+EP exclusively as a yearly subscription for $49.99 (individual) or at 79.99 (Family). The expansion pack offers additional services such as Nintendo Switch 2 Upgrade Packs for games, DLC, and access to games from older consoles such as the GameCube, N64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis/Mega Drive.<ref name=":1" />

==Consumer impact summary==
{{Ph-C-CIS}}

==Incidents==
{{Ph-C-Inc}}

===Nintendo Classics subscription requirement===
Nintendo Classics is the product line in which NSO subscribers gain access to games from older consoles via software emulation. Subscribers can download applications pertaining to a particular console's library, and thereby gain access to the games for that console which Nintendo has approved for the service. While the games are installed locally, the selection of games available can be changed any time by Nintendo. The selection of games has expanded over time, but in some instances, games were taken off the service.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-02-28 |title=Nintendo of Japan announces title will be removed from NSO library, first time since launch |url=https://nintendowire.com/news/2025/02/28/nintendo-of-japan-announces-title-will-be-removed-from-nso-library-first-time-since-launch/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250228182428/https://nintendowire.com/news/2025/02/28/nintendo-of-japan-announces-title-will-be-removed-from-nso-library-first-time-since-launch/ |archive-date=2025-02-28 |access-date=2025-08-16 |website=nintendowire.com}}</ref>

This is in stark contrast to the 'Virtual Console' service Nintendo offered for their Wii, Wii U, and 3DS consoles previously, in which individual titles were available for a one-time purchase and digital download.

===Virtual Boy Accessory Requirement===
In September, 2025, Nintendo announced that it's ill-fated Virtual Boy would be the newest system added to its Switch online game streaming service. The other system collections have also been offered as free downloads to members of the Nintendo Switch Online subscription service. The Virtual Boy collection was similarly offered for free, but Nintendo also revealed that a required accessory would need to be purchased to make use of the Virtual Boy collection. They offered an option of a $99 replica of the original Virtual Boy device or a $20 cardboard headset. Use of either of these accessories is required to properly play the Virtual Boy Collection as the companion app was not designed with an option to disable the 3D graphics and is also not compatible with a TV by docking the Switch console. <ref>{{Cite web |last=Robinson |first=Andy |date=2025-09-12 |title=Nintendo Switch is getting a Virtual Boy accessory and Switch Online games |url=https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/nintendo-switch-is-getting-a-virtual-boy-accessory-and-switch-online-games/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260309125932/https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/nintendo-switch-is-getting-a-virtual-boy-accessory-and-switch-online-games/ |archive-date=2026-03-09 |access-date=2026-02-25 |website=Video Games Chronicle}}</ref> Software emulators fans created for Nintendo's prior Nintendo 3DS console can render the Virtual Boy graphics with the use of the system's autostereoscopic 3D display along with allowing the 3D graphics to be disabled by using the system's existing 3D slider. Nintendo also posted an incorrect statement to social media that their existing product, the Nintendo Labo VR Headset, would be compatible with the Virtual Boy collection.

==References==
<references />
[[Category:Subscription-based services]]
[[Category:Nintendo Switch Online]]

Nintendo Switch Online

2026-03-21T05:20:40Z

2001:4BC9:82B:F663:2205:B7FF:FE00:E700: product cargo + ref

{{Stub}}
{{ProductCargo
|ArticleType=Service
|Category=Online Gaming
|Company=Nintendo
|Description=
|InProduction=Yes
|Logo=Nintendo Switch Online
|ProductLine=Nintendo Switch
|ReleaseYear=2018
|Website=https://www.nintendo.com/us/online/
}}

Nintendo Switch Online (or NSO for short), is a paid online gaming subscription service for the [[Nintendo Switch]] and [[Nintendo Switch|Nintendo Switch 2]],<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=Nintendo Switch Online — Overview |url=https://www.nintendo.com/en-gb/Nintendo-Switch-Online/Nintendo-Switch-Online-Overview-1183143.html |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260122023348/https://www.nintendo.com/en-gb/Nintendo-Switch-Online/Nintendo-Switch-Online-Overview-1183143.html |archive-date=22 Jan 2026}}</ref> similar to [[PlayStation Network]] on the [[PlayStation]] consoles and [[Xbox Live]] on [[Xbox]] consoles. It was introduced in September of 2018<ref>{{Cite web |date=2018-09-12 |title="The Nintendo Switch online service is launching on September 18th" |url=https://www.theverge.com/2018/9/12/17850516/nintendo-switch-online-service-release-date |url-status=unfit |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201109033627/https://www.theverge.com/2018/9/12/17850516/nintendo-switch-online-service-release-date |archive-date=2020-11-09 |access-date=2025-08-16 |website=The Verge}}</ref>, roughly a year after the Nintendo Switch's launch. At which time, games that used to have their online multiplayer functions accessible for free were locked behind this subscription service.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2017-06-02 |title="Nintendo Switch online service pushed back to 2018 |url=https://www.gamesindustry.biz/nintendo-switch-online-service-to-launch-in-2018 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201124013853/https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2017-06-02-nintendo-switch-online-service-to-launch-in-2018 |archive-date=2020-11-24 |access-date=2025-08-16 |website=gamesindustry.biz}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=What online games can you play without switch online? |url=https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/wiki/what-online-games-can-you-play-without-switch-online/}}</ref> The service also includes access to other things such as saving to the cloud, Nintendo Music, GameChat (Nintendo's new voice chat system introduced with the Nintendo Switch 2<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-08-19 |title=Nintendo Switch 2 Gamechat |url=https://www.nintendo.com/us/gaming-systems/switch-2/features/gamechat/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250819130515/https://www.nintendo.com/us/gaming-systems/switch-2/features/gamechat/ |archive-date=2025-08-19 |access-date=2025-08-19 |website=Nintendo}}</ref>), and playing older Nintendo games from the NES/Famicom, SNES/Super Famicom, and Game Boy.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |date=2025-08-19 |title=Compare Nintendo Switch Online Memberships |url=https://www.nintendo.com/us/online/compare-memberships/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250819125044/https://www.nintendo.com/us/online/compare-memberships/ |archive-date=2025-08-19 |access-date=2025-08-19 |website=Nintendo}}</ref>

Nintendo offers the base subscription pack at either a free 7-day trial, once monthly (3.99), once every 3 months (7.99), or once ever year (19.99). Nintendo also offers a Family subscription pack exclusively yearly for $34.99.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Memberships {{!}} Nintendo Switch Online |url=https://ec.nintendo.com/US/en/membership/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250729043936/https://ec.nintendo.com/US/en/membership/ |archive-date=2025-07-29 |access-date=2025-08-19 |website=Nintendo}}</ref> The family pack allows for up to 8 accounts to be connected on one plan.<ref name=":1" /> (More research needed on why the expansion pack and family subscription packs are only available yearly)

Some users have been banned from all online services, including Nintendo Switch Online after hacking their consoles.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Petite |first=Steven |date=May 22, 2018 |title=Nintendo starts banning Switch hackers from online services |url=https://www.digitaltrends.com/gaming/nintendo-starts-banning-switch-hackers/ |access-date=August 16, 2025 |work=digitaltrends |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250916131130/https://www.digitaltrends.com/gaming/nintendo-starts-banning-switch-hackers/ |archive-date=16 Sep 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Doolan |first=Liam |date=June 17, 2025 |title=Nintendo Reportedly Banning Switch 2's Using MIG Cartridges |url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2025/06/nintendo-reportedly-banning-switch-2s-using-mig-cartridges?s=09 |work=Nintendo Life |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251004103627/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2025/06/nintendo-reportedly-banning-switch-2s-using-mig-cartridges?s=09 |archive-date=4 Oct 2025}}</ref>

==Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack==
Unlike the base subscription Nintendo prices the NSO+EP exclusively as a yearly subscription for $49.99 (individual) or at 79.99 (Family). The expansion pack offers additional services such as Nintendo Switch 2 Upgrade Packs for games, DLC, and access to games from older consoles such as the GameCube, N64, Game Boy Advance, and Sega Genesis/Mega Drive.<ref name=":1" />

==Consumer impact summary==
{{Ph-C-CIS}}

==Incidents==
{{Ph-C-Inc}}

===Nintendo Classics subscription requirement===
Nintendo Classics is the product line in which NSO subscribers gain access to games from older consoles via software emulation. Subscribers can download applications pertaining to a particular console's library, and thereby gain access to the games for that console which Nintendo has approved for the service. While the games are installed locally, the selection of games available can be changed any time by Nintendo. The selection of games has expanded over time, but in some instances, games were taken off the service.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-02-28 |title=Nintendo of Japan announces title will be removed from NSO library, first time since launch |url=https://nintendowire.com/news/2025/02/28/nintendo-of-japan-announces-title-will-be-removed-from-nso-library-first-time-since-launch/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250228182428/https://nintendowire.com/news/2025/02/28/nintendo-of-japan-announces-title-will-be-removed-from-nso-library-first-time-since-launch/ |archive-date=2025-02-28 |access-date=2025-08-16 |website=nintendowire.com}}</ref>

This is in stark contrast to the 'Virtual Console' service Nintendo offered for their Wii, Wii U, and 3DS consoles previously, in which individual titles were available for a one-time purchase and digital download.

===Virtual Boy Accessory Requirement===
In September, 2025, Nintendo announced that it's ill-fated Virtual Boy would be the newest system added to its Switch online game streaming service. The other system collections have also been offered as free downloads to members of the Nintendo Switch Online subscription service. The Virtual Boy collection was similarly offered for free, but Nintendo also revealed that a required accessory would need to be purchased to make use of the Virtual Boy collection. They offered an option of a $99 replica of the original Virtual Boy device or a $20 cardboard headset. Use of either of these accessories is required to properly play the Virtual Boy Collection as the companion app was not designed with an option to disable the 3D graphics and is also not compatible with a TV by docking the Switch console. <ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-09-12 |title=Nintendo Switch is getting a Virtual Boy accessory and Switch Online games |url=https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/nintendo-switch-is-getting-a-virtual-boy-accessory-and-switch-online-games/ access-date=2026-02-25}}</ref> Software emulators fans created for Nintendo's prior Nintendo 3DS console can render the Virtual Boy graphics with the use of the system's autostereoscopic 3D display along with allowing the 3D graphics to be disabled by using the system's existing 3D slider. Nintendo also posted an incorrect statement to social media that their existing product, the Nintendo Labo VR Headset, would be compatible with the Virtual Boy collection.

==References==
<references />
[[Category:Subscription-based services]]
[[Category:Nintendo Switch Online]]

Sony PlayStation Vita proprietary memory card ban

2026-03-21T05:09:51Z

2001:4BC9:82B:F663:2205:B7FF:FE00:E700: /* References */ fix url etc

{{Irrelevant}}
{{StubNotice}}

{{IncidentCargo
|Company=Sony
|ProductLine=Playstation
|Product=Playstation Vita
|ArticleType=Product
}}
The PlayStation Vita is a console developed by [[Sony]] as part of the [[PlayStation]] line of products.
==Background==
The PlayStation Vita, which released on the 22nd of February 2012, was a handheld console.

==[Incident]==
When the PlayStation Vita launched, some users tried putting a 32GB memory card in it to take advantage of its 1GB storage, but it didn’t allow the 1GB of storage inside to be used with the memory card. <ref>{{Cite web |last=Fajardo |first=Mark |date=11 Oct 2013 |title=PS Vita Slim internal storage not usable with a memory card |url=https://www.justpushstart.com/blog/2013/10/11/ps-vita-slim-internal-storage-usable-memory-card/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131013181238/http://www.justpushstart.com/2013/10/ps-vita-slim-internal-storage-usable-memory-card/ |archive-date=2013-10-13 |website=Just Push Start}}</ref>

===PlayStation's response===
{{Ph-I-ComR}}

==Lawsuit==
{{Ph-I-L}}

==Consumer response==
{{Ph-I-ConR}}

==References==
{{reflist}}

{{Ph-I-C}}

VMware licensing change since acquisition by Broadcom

2026-03-21T04:58:21Z

2001:4BC9:82B:F663:2205:B7FF:FE00:E700: /* References */ fix archive date

{{IncidentCargo
|Company=Broadcom Inc.
|StartDate=2023-11-22
|Status=Active
|Product=VMware
|ArticleType=Product
|Type=Terms of Service
|Description=Broadcom ended perpetual VMware licenses and changed to a subscription based model.
}}On 22 November 2023, [[Broadcom Inc.]] completed the acquisition of VMware for $61 billion.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://investors.broadcom.com/news-releases/news-release-details/broadcom-completes-acquisition-vmware |title=Broadcom Completes Acquisition of VMware |website=Broadcom Inc. |date=2023-11-22 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251217124315/https://investors.broadcom.com/news-releases/news-release-details/broadcom-completes-acquisition-vmware |archive-date=17 Dec 2025}}</ref> Perpetual licenses for the software were ended and changed to a subscription-based model.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://blogs.vmware.com/cloud-foundation/2024/01/22/vmware-end-of-availability-of-perpetual-licensing-and-saas-services/ |title=VMware End Of Availability of Perpetual Licensing and SaaS Services |website=VMware Cloud Foundation Blog |date=2024-01-22 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251115013106/https://blogs.vmware.com/cloud-foundation/2024/01/22/vmware-end-of-availability-of-perpetual-licensing-and-saas-services/ |archive-date=15 Nov 2025}}</ref> Customers report that this new model results in higher overall pricing for their use of VMware, with documented increases ranging from 800% to 1,500%.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.theregister.com/2025/05/22/euro_cloud_body_ecco_says_broadcom_licensing_unfair/ |title=VMware price hikes? 800-1,500%, claim Euro customers |website=The Register |date=2025-05-22 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251213164200/https://www.theregister.com/2025/05/22/euro_cloud_body_ecco_says_broadcom_licensing_unfair/ |archive-date=13 Dec 2025}}</ref> Several notable businesses who are customers of VMware have started legal action against Broadcom.

==Background==
===Acquisition timeline & strategy===
Broadcom announced its intent to acquire VMware on May 26, 2022, for approximately $61 billion in cash and stock.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.channelfutures.com/channel-business/the-broadcom-vmware-acquisition-a-complete-timeline |title=The Broadcom VMware Acquisition: A Complete Timeline |website=Channel Futures |date=2024-12-12 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251030145200/https://www.channelfutures.com/channel-business/the-broadcom-vmware-acquisition-a-complete-timeline |archive-date=30 Oct 2025}}</ref> The acquisition completed on November 22, 2023, following regulatory approvals from multiple jurisdictions.

In 2025, Broadcom initiated the second phase of its VMware consolidation.<ref name=":2">{{cite web |url=https://www.ciodive.com/news/broadcom-vmware-vcf-adoption-second-phase/759406/ |title=Broadcom enters 'second phase' of VMware consolidation |website=CIO Dive |date=2025-09-05 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251015042818/https://www.ciodive.com/news/broadcom-vmware-vcf-adoption-second-phase/759406/ |archive-date=15 Oct 2025}}</ref> The CEO stated that "more than 90% of VMware's largest 10,000 customers have shifted from perpetual licenses to the subscription-based" model, though he clarified that purchasing licenses does not mean full deployment.<ref name=":2" />

===Business model transformation===
On December 11, 2023, Broadcom announced it would immediately stop selling perpetual licenses and discontinue support renewals for existing perpetual license holders.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://news.vmware.com/company/vmware-by-broadcom-business-transformation |title=VMware by Broadcom Dramatically Simplifies Offer Lineup and Licensing Model |website=VMware News |date=2023-12-11 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240514220844/https://news.vmware.com/company/vmware-by-broadcom-business-transformation |archive-date=14 May 2024}}</ref> The company reduced VMware's portfolio from approximately 200 products to four core subscription bundles: VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) and VMware vSphere Foundation as primary offerings.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://redresscompliance.com/broadcom-vmware-licensing-and-subscription-changes-explained/ |title=Broadcom VMware Licensing Changes Explained |website=Redress Compliance |date=2024-03-15 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251201034109/https://redresscompliance.com/broadcom-vmware-licensing-and-subscription-changes-explained/ |archive-date=1 Dec 2025}}</ref>

Besides the new pricing models since the acquisition, Broadcom increased the minimum amount of cores from 16 to 72 cores in April 2025, which must be paid irrespective of usage of the 72 cores.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.colocationplus.com/blog/vmware-price-increase-in-2025-what-you-need-to-know |title=VMware Price Increase in 2025: What You Need to Know |website=ColocationPLUS |date=2025-05-06 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250911035014/https://www.colocationplus.com/blog/vmware-price-increase-in-2025-what-you-need-to-know |archive-date=11 Sep 2025}}</ref><ref name=":3">{{cite web |url=https://www.theregister.com/2025/03/28/arrow_vmware_licensing_change/ |title=VMware distributor Arrow says minimum software subs set to jump from 16 to 72 cores |website=The Register |date=2025-03-28 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251114194646/https://www.theregister.com/2025/03/28/arrow_vmware_licensing_change/ |archive-date=14 Nov 2025}}</ref> However, following a ton of industry backlash, Broadcom completely reversed this decision in April 2025.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://licenseware.io/major-update-for-vmware-customers-min-licensing-requirement-increases-from-16-to-72-cores/ |title=Major Update for VMware Customers: minimum purchase requirement of 72 cores per product |website=Licenseware |date=2025-04-02 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251018081342/https://licenseware.io/major-update-for-vmware-customers-min-licensing-requirement-increases-from-16-to-72-cores/ |archive-date=18 Oct 2025}}</ref> In addition, being late with license renewal causes an additional 20% cost penalty.<ref name=":3" />

===Focus on enterprise customers===
CEO Hock Tan explicitly stated that while VMware has 300,000 customers, Broadcom sees "the top 10,000 as being people where it makes a lot of sense, derive a lot of value in deploying private cloud using VCF."<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.sdxcentral.com/news/broadcom-ceo-not-sure-its-worth-targeting-smaller-vmware-customers/ |title=Broadcom CEO not sure it's worth targeting smaller VMware customers |website=SDxCentral |date=2024-12-12 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250919151131/https://www.sdxcentral.com/news/broadcom-ceo-not-sure-its-worth-targeting-smaller-vmware-customers/ |archive-date=19 Sep 2025}}</ref> This strategic narrowing focuses on approximately 600 strategic enterprise accounts while pushing smaller customers toward alternatives.

==End of perpetual licenses==
===Implementation and enforcement===
Beginning in May 2025, Broadcom began sending cease-and-desist letters to customers using perpetual licenses without active support contracts.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.channelfutures.com/cloud/broadcom-to-perpetual-vmware-users-cease-and-desist |title=Broadcom to Perpetual VMware Users: Cease and Desist |website=Channel Futures |date=2025-05-07 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250527183435/https://www.channelfutures.com/cloud/broadcom-to-perpetual-vmware-users-cease-and-desist |archive-date=27 May 2025}}</ref> Customers were informed they must immediately discontinue use of VMware products unless they transition to subscription licensing.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://yro.slashdot.org/story/25/05/07/1856255/vmware-perpetual-license-holders-receive-cease-and-desist-letters-from-broadcom |title=VMware Perpetual License Holders Receive Cease-And-Desist Letters From Broadcom |website=Slashdot |date=2025-05-07 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250509082419/https://yro.slashdot.org/story/25/05/07/1856255/vmware-perpetual-license-holders-receive-cease-and-desist-letters-from-broadcom |archive-date=9 May 2025}}</ref>

VMware customers must now commit to three-year subscription terms for license renewals, a requirement that has generated significant customer resistance.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.theregister.com/2025/01/23/customers_gripe_at_threeyear_commitment/ |title=VMware users unhappy at 3-year commitment to renew licenses |website=The Register |date=2025-01-23 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251114090333/https://www.theregister.com/2025/01/23/customers_gripe_at_threeyear_commitment/ |archive-date=14 Nov 2025}}</ref>

===Broadcom's response===
Broadcom argues that they have listened to their customers. In an April 2024 blog post, CEO Hock Tan stated that subscription licensing ''"eliminates incentives"'' for confusing pricing practices common in the software industry.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.broadcom.com/blog/a-changing-market-landscape-requires-constant-evolution-our-mission-for-vmware-customers |title=A changing market landscape requires constant evolution: our mission for VMware customers |website=Broadcom |date=2024-04-15 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251219224332/https://www.broadcom.com/blog/a-changing-market-landscape-requires-constant-evolution-our-mission-for-vmware-customers |archive-date=19 Dec 2025}}</ref> He also announced that customers needing additional time for migration could receive support extensions, though specific terms were not disclosed.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.constellationr.com/blog-news/insights/broadcom-ceo-tan-says-vmware-customers-can-get-support-extensions-amid |title=Broadcom CEO Tan says VMware customers can get support extensions amid subscription transition |website=Constellation Research |date=2024-04-15 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251107031713/https://www.constellationr.com/blog-news/insights/broadcom-ceo-tan-says-vmware-customers-can-get-support-extensions-amid |archive-date=7 Nov 2025}}</ref>

==Lawsuits==
===Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure (Rijkswaterstaat v. Broadcom Inc.)===
On Friday, June 27, 2025, the District Court of The Hague granted Rijkswaterstaat's (RWS) request in case ECLI:NL:RBDHA:2025:11349.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://uitspraken.rechtspraak.nl/details?id=ECLI:NL:RBDHA:2025:11349 |title=ECLI:NL:RBDHA:2025:11349 |website=De Rechtspraak |date=2025-06-27 |access-date=2025-09-08 |language=nl |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250707190722/https://uitspraken.rechtspraak.nl/details?id=ECLI:NL:RBDHA:2025:11349 |archive-date=7 Jul 2025}}</ref> Broadcom must continue to provide RWS with support for a period of 2 years under the existing conditions and price of €1,765,191 annually, with penalties of €250,000 per day for non-compliance up to €25 million maximum.<ref name=":0">{{cite web |url=https://openrijk.nl/en/rijksinstellingen/rijkswaterstaat/artikel/rijkswaterstaat-wint-kort-geding-tegen-broadcom-over-voortzetting-van-support/rijkswaterstaat-wins-summary-proceedings-against-broadcom-over-continuation-of-support |title=Rijkswaterstaat wins summary proceedings against Broadcom over continuation of support |website=Openrijk |date=2025-07-03 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260105011658/https://openrijk.nl/en/rijksinstellingen/rijkswaterstaat/artikel/rijkswaterstaat-wint-kort-geding-tegen-broadcom-over-voortzetting-van-support/rijkswaterstaat-wins-summary-proceedings-against-broadcom-over-continuation-of-support |archive-date=5 Jan 2026}}</ref>

The judge ruled: <blockquote>"Unlike Broadcom et al. have stated, there was [thus] no question of free commercial negotiations between two large professional parties; one could say that RWS was in a bind. The judge ruled that RWS must be allowed to part ways with VMware/Broadcom and still receive support during that process. By failing to do so, Broadcom acts in violation of the care that is owed to RWS in social traffic."<ref name=":0" /> </blockquote>The court noted that RWS manages critical infrastructure including Dutch tunnels, locks, and bridges, and faced an 85% price increase from Broadcom.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.networkworld.com/article/4015489/dutch-court-forces-broadcom-to-support-vmware-migration-after-85-price-hike-backlash.html |title=Dutch court forces Broadcom to support VMware migration after 85% price hike backlash |website=Network World |date=2025-06-30 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250911222039/https://www.networkworld.com/article/4015489/dutch-court-forces-broadcom-to-support-vmware-migration-after-85-price-hike-backlash.html |archive-date=11 Sep 2025}}</ref>

===European Cloud Providers===
On July 30, 2025, the trade body for European Cloud providers CISPE started legal action against the European Commission.<ref name=":1">{{cite web |url=https://licenseware.io/european-cloud-providers-drag-broadcoms-vmware-deal-into-court/ |title=European Cloud Providers Drag Broadcom's VMware Deal into Court |website=Licenseware |date=2025-07-30 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250919151832/https://licenseware.io/european-cloud-providers-drag-broadcoms-vmware-deal-into-court/ |archive-date=19 Sep 2025}}</ref> The legal action focuses on the acquisition approval by the EU Commission; arguing the remedies taken were "irrelevant to the real threat."<ref name=":1" /> CISPE seeks to annul the Commission's approval, citing "errors in law and manifest failures" in competitive assessment.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://cispe.cloud/cispe-takes-european-commission-to-court-to-annul-approval-of-broadcoms-acquisition-of-vmware/ |title=CISPE Takes European Commission to Court to Annul Approval of Broadcom's Acquisition of VMware |website=CISPE |date=2025-07-30 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251215012241/https://www.cispe.cloud/cispe-takes-european-commission-to-court-to-annul-approval-of-broadcoms-acquisition-of-vmware/ |archive-date=15 Dec 2025}}</ref>

===AT&T===
AT&T filed suit against Broadcom in August 2024, alleging a 1,050% price increase from approximately $2 million to over $20 million annually for 75,000 virtual machines.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.theregister.com/2024/10/01/att_broadcom_filings_update/ |title=AT&T claims VMware offered it a 1,050 percent price rise |website=The Register |date=2024-10-01 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251128045252/https://www.theregister.com/2024/10/01/att_broadcom_filings_update/ |archive-date=28 Nov 2025}}</ref> The lawsuit documented that migrating away from VMware would cost AT&T an estimated $40-50 million.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.techtarget.com/searchdatacenter/news/366610359/ATT-sues-Broadcom-over-VMware-support-licensing |title=AT&T sues Broadcom over VMware support licensing |website=TechTarget |date=2024-08-29 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251115003822/https://www.techtarget.com/searchdatacenter/news/366610359/ATT-sues-Broadcom-over-VMware-support-licensing |archive-date=15 Nov 2025}}</ref> AT&T warned of potential impacts to critical services including FirstNet emergency communications.

On November 21, 2024, AT&T reached a settlement-in-principle with Broadcom.<ref name=":4">{{cite web |url=https://www.ciodive.com/news/broadcom-att-vmware-settlement-licensing-support-lawsuit/733763/ |title=Broadcom, AT&T reach settlement in VMware legal dispute |website=CIO Dive |date=2024-11-22 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250814074513/https://www.ciodive.com/news/broadcom-att-vmware-settlement-licensing-support-lawsuit/733763/ |archive-date=14 Aug 2025}}</ref> The terms of the settlement were not disclosed, but it is clear that AT&T is moving away from doing business with Broadcom.<ref name=":4" /> In the case, Broadcom argued to the court that they did not have to give support as AT&T did not renew their license.

===Tesco===
On September 3, 2025, Tesco filed suit against Broadcom seeking £100 million in damages.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.theregister.com/2025/09/03/tesco_sues_vmware_broadcom_computacenter/ |title=Supermarket giant Tesco sues VMware for breach of contract |website=The Register |date=2025-09-03 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251223102412/https://www.theregister.com/2025/09/03/tesco_sues_vmware_broadcom_computacenter/ |archive-date=23 Dec 2025}}</ref> The UK's largest supermarket chain warned of potential disruption to UK and Ireland food supplies, as it operates 40,000 virtual workloads supporting point-of-sale systems, inventory management, and logistics.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.computing.co.uk/news/2025/cloud/tesco-sues-broadcom-over-vmware-licensing-warns-food-supply-could-be-hit |title=Tesco sues Broadcom over VMware licensing, warns food supply could be hit |website=Computing |date=2025-09-03 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250916101357/https://www.computing.co.uk/news/2025/cloud/tesco-sues-broadcom-over-vmware-licensing-warns-food-supply-could-be-hit |archive-date=16 Sep 2025}}</ref> Tesco alleges Broadcom breached perpetual license contracts valid until 2026 with extension options, denied promised software upgrades, and restricted security patches to subscription customers only.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://techstrong.it/featured/tesco-sues-broadcom-over-vmware-licensing-citing-operational-risks/ |title=Tesco Sues Broadcom Over VMware Licensing, Citing Operational Risks |website=Techstrong IT |date=2025-09-04 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251009194123/https://techstrong.it/featured/tesco-sues-broadcom-over-vmware-licensing-citing-operational-risks/ |archive-date=9 Oct 2025}}</ref>

===Siemens===
In March 2025, VMware filed copyright infringement charges against Siemens, alleging the industrial giant uses "thousands" of unlicensed VMware products.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.theregister.com/2025/03/26/vmware_sues_siemens_for_using/ |title=VMware sues Siemens for using unlicensed software |website=The Register |date=2025-03-26 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251128045252/https://www.theregister.com/2025/03/26/vmware_sues_siemens_for_using/ |archive-date=28 Nov 2025}}</ref> VMware claims Siemens requested support renewal in September 2024 for products never properly licensed and refused to submit to an independent software audit.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.cfodive.com/news/broadcom-vmware-siemens-licensing-lawsuit/744716/ |title=VMware feuds with Siemens in legal battle over software licensing |website=CFO Dive |date=2025-03-27 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250418232611/https://www.cfodive.com/news/broadcom-vmware-siemens-licensing-lawsuit/744716/ |archive-date=18 Apr 2025}}</ref>

==Regulatory investigations==
===European Union===
The European Commission approved the acquisition in July 2023 under case number M.10806 with significant conditions including 10-year commitments for technology access, interoperability APIs, and source code access to competitors.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_23_3777 |title=Mergers: Commission clears acquisition of VMware by Broadcom, subject to conditions |website=European Commission |date=2023-07-12 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260128022318/https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_23_3777 |archive-date=28 Jan 2026}}</ref>

On July 22, 2024, the European Commission initiated investigations, receiving complaints about the licensing model after Broadcom acquired VMware.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://dutchcloudcommunity.nl/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Art-182-RFI-CISPE-Broadcom-VMware-22-07-24-esigned.pdf |title=Case AT.40924 - VMware software licensing - Request for information pursuant to Article 18(2) of Council Regulation (EC) No 1/2003 |website=European Commission |date=2024-07-22 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260105004544/https://dutchcloudcommunity.nl/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Art-182-RFI-CISPE-Broadcom-VMware-22-07-24-esigned.pdf |archive-date=5 Jan 2026}}</ref> The European Cloud Competition Observatory assigned Broadcom "red" status for critical anticompetitive risk in May 2024.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://cispe.cloud/ecco-reports-no-progress-with-broadcom/ |title=ECCO Reports No Progress with Broadcom |website=CISPE |date=2024-05-23 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251107154159/https://cispe.cloud/ecco-reports-no-progress-with-broadcom/ |archive-date=7 Nov 2025}}</ref>

===China===
China's State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) granted conditional approval with 10-year monitoring requirements prohibiting unjustifiable bundling and requiring maintained compatibility with third-party hardware.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://digitalpolicyalert.org/event/15828-issued-samr-conditional-approval-of-broadcom-and-vmware-merger |title=China: Issued SAMR conditional approval of Broadcom and VMware merger |website=Digital Policy Alert |date=2023-11-21 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260105004434/https://digitalpolicyalert.org/event/15828-issued-samr-conditional-approval-of-broadcom-and-vmware-merger |archive-date=5 Jan 2026}}</ref> Multiple Chinese companies have since filed new complaints alleging post-acquisition abuse of dominance.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.mlex.com/mlex/antitrust/articles/2274786/broadcom-s-vmware-sees-antitrust-complaints-escalated-to-china-s-samr |title=Broadcom's VMware sees antitrust complaints escalated to China's SAMR |website=MLex |date=2024-08-15 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260105004320/https://www.mlex.com/mlex/antitrust/articles/2274786/broadcom-s-vmware-sees-antitrust-complaints-escalated-to-china-s-samr |archive-date=5 Jan 2026}}</ref>

===Japan===
The Japan Fair Trade Commission launched an investigation in September 2024 focusing on forced bundling practices, conducting office raids in Tokyo.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.theregister.com/2024/09/25/japan_vmware_broadcom_monopoly_investigation/ |title=VMware investigated by Japanese antimonopoly agency: reports |website=The Register |date=2024-09-25 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251125091553/https://www.theregister.com/2024/09/25/japan_vmware_broadcom_monopoly_investigation/ |archive-date=25 Nov 2025}}</ref>

===United Kingdom===
The UK Competition and Markets Authority provided unconditional clearance after examining over 250,000 internal business documents, concluding potential benefits of restricting competitors would be outweighed by loss of business.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/news/cma-clears-broadcom-s-deal-to-buy-vmware |title=CMA clears Broadcom's deal to buy VMware |website=GOV.UK |date=2023-08-21 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250504133529/https://www.gov.uk/government/news/cma-clears-broadcom-s-deal-to-buy-vmware |archive-date=4 May 2025}}</ref>

==Consumer response==
===Price increases===
Many independent surveys & documented cases confirm the 800% to 1,500% price increase range affecting VMware customers globally. The European Cloud Competition Observatory (ECCO) found that their members' costs for VMware increased 8 to 15 times compared to the previous pricing model.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.techradar.com/pro/broadcom-has-allegedly-hiked-vmware-costs-between-800-and-1-500-percent |title=Broadcom has allegedly hiked VMware costs between 800 and 1,500% |website=TechRadar |date=2025-05-23 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250915160445/https://www.techradar.com/pro/broadcom-has-allegedly-hiked-vmware-costs-between-800-and-1-500-percent |archive-date=15 Sep 2025}}</ref> A CloudBolt Software survey of 300 VMware customers found 75% expect price increases exceeding 100%, with many reporting actual increases between 500% and 1,200%.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2024/06/06/2894702/0/en/New-Report-from-CloudBolt-Software-and-Wakefield-Research-Unpacks-Real-Reactions-and-Key-Concerns-from-VMware-Users-in-the-Aftermath-of-Broadcom-s-Acquisition.html |title=New Report from CloudBolt Software and Wakefield Research Unpacks Real Reactions and Key Concerns from VMware Users in the Aftermath of Broadcom's Acquisition |website=GlobeNewswire |date=2024-06-06 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251128231805/https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2024/06/06/2894702/0/en/New-Report-from-CloudBolt-Software-and-Wakefield-Research-Unpacks-Real-Reactions-and-Key-Concerns-from-VMware-Users-in-the-Aftermath-of-Broadcom-s-Acquisition.html |archive-date=28 Nov 2025}}</ref>

A Civo survey of 1,000 VMware customers found that 48.7% have already had to spend more to access the same features, with 99% expressing concern about Broadcom's actions.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.civo.com/newsroom/vmware-customer-spend |title=Nearly half of VMware's customers already have to spend more to access the same features |website=Civo |date=2024-09-10 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251111102115/https://www.civo.com/newsroom/vmware-customer-spend |archive-date=11 Nov 2025}}</ref>

===Customer migration===
The reliance on VMware is high across many different sectors and is not something that can easily be replaced by other software.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.techspot.com/news/106547-loved-vmware-now-hate-customers-react-broadcom-changes.html |title="We loved VMware. Now we hate it": Customers react to Broadcom's changes |website=TechSpot |date=2025-01-29 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250404235927/https://www.techspot.com/news/106547-loved-vmware-now-hate-customers-react-broadcom-changes.html |archive-date=4 Apr 2025}}</ref> Despite this, major migrations are occurring:

*Computershare is migrating all 24,000 virtual machines to Nutanix AHV after receiving quotes for 10x to 15x price increases.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.webpronews.com/vmware-may-have-lost-a-24000-license-customer/ |title=VMware May Have Lost a 24000 License Customer |website=WebProNews |date=2024-12-17 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241225214523/https://www.webpronews.com/vmware-may-have-lost-a-24000-license-customer/ |archive-date=25 Dec 2024}}</ref>
*GEICO migrated to OpenStack to avoid vendor lock-in.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.theregister.com/2024/08/28/geico_vmware_openstack_migration/ |title=US insurer GEICO drops VMware for OpenStack |website=The Register |date=2024-08-28 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251230224756/https://www.theregister.com/2024/08/28/geico_vmware_openstack_migration/ |archive-date=30 Dec 2025}}</ref>
*Beeks Group moved 20,000 VMs to the OpenNebula open-source platform after facing a 10x price increase.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.techwrix.com/broadcom-loses-another-major-vmware-customer-beeks-groups-bold-move-from-vmware-to-open-nebula/ |title=Broadcom Loses another Major VMware Customer Beeks Group's Bold Move: From VMware to Open Nebula |website=Techwrix |date=2024-12-20 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251212061237/https://www.techwrix.com/broadcom-loses-another-major-vmware-customer-beeks-groups-bold-move-from-vmware-to-open-nebula/ |archive-date=12 Dec 2025}}</ref>

Industry research shows 52% of VMware customers are considering leaving the platform, with 56% planning to decrease VMware use over the next year.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.theregister.com/2024/09/11/civo_vmware_research/ |title=More than half of VMware customers looking for alternatives |website=The Register |date=2024-09-11 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251118142203/https://www.theregister.com/2024/09/11/civo_vmware_research/ |archive-date=18 Nov 2025}}</ref>

==Financial impact==
Despite widespread customer dissatisfaction, Broadcom reports strong financial performance from the VMware acquisition. Infrastructure software segment revenues reached $6.8 billion in Q3 2025, up 17% year-over-year, with VMware contributing $3.8 billion quarterly.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.theregister.com/2024/12/13/broadcom_q4_fy_2024_vmware/ |title=Broadcom turns VMware into a prolific money-making machine |website=The Register |date=2024-12-13 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251117224645/https://www.theregister.com/2024/12/13/broadcom_q4_fy_2024_vmware/ |archive-date=17 Nov 2025}}</ref> The company achieved $2.7 billion in annualized booking value and aims to grow VMware's revenue from $4.7 billion to $8.5 billion within three years.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.sdxcentral.com/analysis/broadcom-bounces-vmware-operating-concerns/ |title=Broadcom bounces VMware operating concerns |website=SDxCentral |date=2024-12-12 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250723200533/https://www.sdxcentral.com/analysis/broadcom-bounces-vmware-operating-concerns/ |archive-date=23 Jul 2025}}</ref>

Broadcom cut VMware's quarterly operating costs from $2.4 billion to $1.2 billion while increasing margins from below 30% to 70%.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://thecuberesearch.com/243-breaking-analysis-assessing-broadcom-vmware-eight-months-on/ |title=Assessing Broadcom VMware Eight Months On |website=theCUBE Research |date=2024-07-20 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251221223646/https://thecuberesearch.com/243-breaking-analysis-assessing-broadcom-vmware-eight-months-on/ |archive-date=21 Dec 2025}}</ref>

==Market alternatives==
The disruption has created opportunities for VMware competitors:

*Nutanix emerges as the primary beneficiary, with its Net Score jumping from single digits to 40% and adding 630 new customers in its most recent quarter.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.techtarget.com/searchdatacenter/news/366617362/VMware-by-Broadcom-changes-to-continue-in-2025 |title=VMware by Broadcom changes to continue in 2025 |website=TechTarget |date=2025-01-14 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251014081647/https://www.techtarget.com/searchdatacenter/news/366617362/VMware-by-Broadcom-changes-to-continue-in-2025 |archive-date=14 Oct 2025}}</ref>
*Microsoft Azure Stack HCI now holds nearly 38% of virtualization market share versus VMware's 36%.<ref>{{cite web |date=2024-12-01 |title=VMware - statistics & facts |url=https://www.statista.com/topics/8785/vmware/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240926225139/https://www.statista.com/topics/8785/vmware/ |archive-date=2024-09-26 |access-date=2025-09-08 |website=Statista}}</ref>
*Open-source alternatives including Proxmox, KVM, and OpenNebula see increased adoption particularly among cost-conscious mid-market organizations.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.spectrocloud.com/blog/vsphere-alternatives |title=Complete guide to modern vSphere alternatives for 2025 |website=Spectro Cloud |date=2025-01-15 |access-date=2025-09-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251014103521/https://www.spectrocloud.com/blog/vsphere-alternatives |archive-date=14 Oct 2025}}</ref>

Gartner estimates 18-48 month timelines for organizations to move away from VMware depending on complexity, warning migrations will be "long, costly and risky."<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.sdxcentral.com/articles/analysis/broadcoms-vmware-chaos-catalyzes-gartners-dhi-ranking/2024/10/ |title=Broadcom's VMware chaos catalyzes Gartner's DHI ranking |website=SDxCentral |date=2024-10-15 |access-date=2025-09-08}}</ref>

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:VMware]]
[[Category:Broadcom Inc.]]
[[Category:Software licensing]]

US Mobile

2026-03-21T04:55:49Z

2001:4BC9:82B:F663:2205:B7FF:FE00:E700: /* References */ fix archive date

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|Description=American mobile virtual network operator.
|Founded=2015
|Industry=Telecommunications
|Logo=US Mobile logo.png
|ParentCompany=
|Type=Private
|Website=https://www.usmobile.com/
}}
[[wikipedia:US_Mobile|US Mobile]] is an American MVNO that rebrands service from AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile. The carrier is known for competitive pricing on it's plans and very interactive conversations with it's customers on it's company-run [https://www.reddit.com/r/USMobile/ subreddit].

US Mobile's main selling point is the ability to switch between the three networks that the MVNO runs on at little or no cost depending on the tier of plan subscribed to.<ref>{{Cite web |title=US Mobile {{!}} Features |url=https://www.usmobile.com/features |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260118025307/https://www.usmobile.com/features |archive-date=2026-01-18 |access-date=2025-03-03 |website=US Mobile}}</ref>
==Incidents==
This is a list of all consumer protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].
===Dark Star feature incompleteness and launch issues===
On 8/1/2024 US Mobile launched Dark Star network, their integration with the AT&T network. The launch was riddled with issues, odd marketing had users convinced this product would allow users to roam between all three major networks. One user was banned for asking for clarification on the subreddit where the announcement was made.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Dark Star launch ban |url=https://www.reveddit.com/v/USMobile/comments/1ehtyas/super_carrier_is_here/lhkpbfk/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250708194544/https://www.reveddit.com/v/USMobile/comments/1ehtyas/super_carrier_is_here/lhkpbfk/ |archive-date=8 Jul 2025 |website=reddit}}</ref>
[[File:USMobile Features.png|thumb|Dark Star features missing]]
In the same thread complaints about MMS issues were being shared by users of the service with no response from the company. To this day 3/3/25, the Dark Star service devoid of basic features such as MMS, group messaging, RCS, and visual voicemail do not work on IOS despite no warnings on the site when signing up for service.

===Dark Star Uncapped Unlimited Premium Retroactively Amended Purchase Experience===
On 2/11/2025, CEO Ahmed Khattak, posted to his subreddit announcing a new plan tier backed by the Dark Star Network: Unlimited Premium.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Khattak |first=Ahmed |title="Unlimited Premium - The Endgame" |url=https://www.reddit.com/v/USMobile/comments/1in26fd/unlimited_premium_the_endgame/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260111194707/https://www.reveddit.com/v/USMobile/comments/1in26fd/unlimited_premium_the_endgame/?showFilters=true |archive-date=11 Jan 2026 |access-date=2025-03-03 |website=Reddit}}</ref>

The core promises of this bold new plan were:

*'''"Truly unlimited priority data''' with no caps, no throttles, and no slowdowns"
*'''"Unlimited hotspot''' because your connectivity should not be limited"
*'''"Full-speed HD streaming''' always"

This was superseded by a 1-day sale on the service to encourage new signups to the plan.

After signups to this new tier on this 1-day sale, 3 days after the launch of the plan the Khattak posted an update on the service where he floated the idea of data caps, hotspot caps, and requiring manual intervention by support if you happen to go over. In the update an example of abuse given was downloading a Windows update on a laptop.<ref>{{Cite web |title=reddit Post {{!}} Unlimited Premium: The Endgame Is Here to Stay, but I need you to chime in |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/USMobile/comments/1ipcqwu/unlimited_premium_the_endgame_is_here_to_stay_but/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://www.reveddit.com/v/USMobile/comments/1ipcqwu/unlimited_premium_the_endgame_is_here_to_stay_but/ |archive-date=2025-03-03}}</ref> As well as other users using it as a home service during outages.

After back and forth and losing arguments in their own subreddit, the CEO gave a proper update on concrete limitations in the new plan, that now include caps, throttles, slowdown, limited hotspot connectivity, and HD streaming limitations (from the former).<ref>{{Cite web |title=reddit |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/USMobile/comments/1iz82kj/reflecting_on_feedback_and_moving_ahead/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260222231757/https://old.reddit.com/r/USMobile/comments/1iz82kj/reflecting_on_feedback_and_moving_ahead/ |archive-date=22 Feb 2026|access-date=2025-03-03}}</ref>

==="Free 5GB Data"===
On 11/19/2025, a Redditor posted a strange tile on a USMobile email newsletter, claiming that for a limited time USMobile is giving away 5GB "to any existing customer who asks for them" by clicking on a link. Additionally, users can collect up to three and can give it away to other people. The email's wording never mentioned anything regarding a "trial" or whether if it's a "permanent free plan or add-on".<ref>{{Cite web |title="What is a tile? Is this a completely free line?" Reddit r/usmobile |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/USMobile/comments/1p1lygx/what_is_a_tile_is_this_a_completely_free_line/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260222231909/https://old.reddit.com/r/USMobile/comments/1p1lygx/what_is_a_tile_is_this_a_completely_free_line/ |archive-date=22 Feb 2026}}</ref>

Redditors quick to point out about the misleading ad; that it was a "trial" for 30 days rather than something additional to their plan. One Redditor pointed out that "This is literally just a 30-day free trial, named something different and expecting you to do the work and pedal USM to your friends and family[...]"

USMobile Reddit Agents responded to multiple complaints regarding the ill-intent wording of the tile, resulting in multiple downvotes by the users.

The CEO of USMobile has not responded to the outrage as of 11/20/2025. Additionally, three day prior, he "have been on a plane every week and sometimes two or three times a week."<ref>{{Cite web |title="Been real quiet..." comment by u/ankhattak on r/usmobile - Reddit |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/USMobile/comments/1p029p6/comment/npjh0cd/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web3x&utm_name=web3xcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button |archive-url=https://archive.ph/4gJDP |archive-date=11 Jan 2026}}</ref>

==References==
<references />
[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]

Malaysia Online Safety Act 2025 (ONSA)

2026-03-21T04:41:55Z

2001:4BC9:82B:F663:2205:B7FF:FE00:E700: /* References */ add archive url

{{IncidentCargo
|Company=N/A
|StartDate=2026-01-01
|Status=Active
|ArticleType=Service
|Type=Privacy, censorship, digital rights, content moderation
|Description=Malaysian law requiring platforms with 8M+ users to remove harmful content. Critics cite censorship concerns; government says it targets platforms, no
}}

The '''Online Safety Act 2025''' ('''Act 866''') is Malaysian legislation that came into force on January 1, 2026, requiring social media and messaging platforms with over 8 million Malaysian users to remove harmful content and implement safety measures.<ref name=":15">{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2026-01-02 |title=Online Safety Act comes into force to protect users |url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2026/01/02/online-safety-act-comes-into-force-to-protect-users |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260107212302/https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2026/01/02/online-safety-act-comes-into-force-to-protect-users |archive-date=7 Jan 2026|access-date=2026-02-11 |website=The Star}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Yem |first=Carrine |date=2026-01-01 |title=Online Safety Act Kicks In Effective Today |url=https://www.businesstoday.com.my/2026/01/01/online-safety-act-kicks-in-effective-today/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260102010829/https://www.businesstoday.com.my/2026/01/01/online-safety-act-kicks-in-effective-today/ |archive-date=2026-01-02 |website=Business Today}}</ref> The Act targets nine categories of harmful content including child sexual abuse material and financial fraud, with platforms facing fines up to RM10 million for non-compliance. <ref name=":4" /><ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=ONSA-FAQ-English.pdf |url=https://www.mcmc.gov.my/skmmgovmy/media/General/pdf2/ONSA-FAQ-English.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260101142253/https://www.mcmc.gov.my/skmmgovmy/media/General/pdf2/ONSA-FAQ-English.pdf |archive-date=2026-01-01 |website=MCMC}}</ref> Civil society groups have raised concerns about potential censorship and surveillance, while the government maintains the Act targets platform accountability rather than individual users.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |last= |title=Malaysia: Concerns with the Online Safety Bill 2024 |url=https://www.article19.org/resources/malaysia-online-safety-bill/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250810034315/https://www.article19.org/resources/malaysia-online-safety-bill/ |archive-date=10 Aug 2025|access-date=2026-02-11 |website=Article 19}}</ref> 

==Background==
Between January and November 2025, Malaysian police recorded RM2.7 billion in reported losses from online scams.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |last=Bernama |date=2025-12-08 |title=Online scams cost Malaysians over RM2.7bil as of November |url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2025/12/08/online-scams-cost-malaysians-over-rm27bil-as-of-november |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260122015417/https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2025/12/08/online-scams-cost-malaysians-over-rm27bil-as-of-november |archive-date=22 Jan 2026|access-date=2026-02-11 |website=The Star}}</ref> A UNICEF study identified more than 100,000 children in Malaysia at risk of online sexual exploitation.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Beatty |first=Gloria Harry |last2=Salehuddin |first2=Sufea |date=2024-12-02 |title=The growing threat of online child exploitation |url=https://themalaysianreserve.com/2024/12/02/the-growing-threat-of-online-child-exploitation/ |url-status=live |website=The Malaysian Reserve}}</ref> 

Between January 2024 and November 2025, major platforms removed 92% of 697,061 harmful posts flagged by Malaysian authorities, but 58,104 posts remained accessible online.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Raja Reza |first=Danish |date=2026-02-04 |title=What the Online Safety Act changes, and how it works |url=https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2026/02/04/what-the-online-safety-act-changes-and-how-it-works |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260222223059/https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2026/02/04/what-the-online-safety-act-changes-and-how-it-works |archive-date=22 Feb 2026|access-date=2026-02-11 |website=Free Malaysia Today}}</ref> These ongoing challenges prompted the Malaysian government to introduce the Online Safety Act 2025 to strengthen platform accountability for harmful content and protect Malaysian internet users, particularly children.<ref>{{Cite web |last= |date=2026-01-01 |title=Enforcement of Online Safety Act takes effect, strengthening online protections for children and families, says MCMC |url=https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2026/01/01/enforcement-of-online-safety-act-takes-effect-strengthening-online-protections-for-children-and-families-says-mcmc/203923 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260112004727/https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2026/01/01/enforcement-of-online-safety-act-takes-effect-strengthening-online-protections-for-children-and-families-says-mcmc/203923 |archive-date=12 Jan 2026|access-date=2026-02-11 |website=Malay Mail}}</ref>

==Key provision==

===Who it applies to===
The Act applies to licensed service providers under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, specifically Applications Service Providers (ASPs), Content Applications Service Providers (CASPs), and Network Service Providers (NSPs).<ref name=":15" /><ref name=":0" /> Social media or messaging platforms with over 8 million users in Malaysia are automatically deemed licensees and subject to the Act's requirements.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-11-28 |title=Communications and Multimedia Commission seeks public feedback on draft Code of Conduct for Internet Messaging Service Providers and Social Media Service Providers |url=https://www.allenandgledhill.com/publication/articles/29429/communications-and-multimedia-commission-seeks-public-feedback-on-draft-code-of-conduct-for-internet-messaging-service-providers-and-social-media-service-providers |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260213040603/https://www.allenandgledhill.com/publication/articles/29429/communications-and-multimedia-commission-seeks-public-feedback-on-draft-code-of-conduct-for-internet-messaging-service-providers-and-social-media-service-providershttps |archive-date=2026-02-13 |access-date=2026-02-13 |website=Allen & Gledhill}}</ref><ref name=":16">{{Cite web |date=2024-11-02 |title=Code Of Conduct (Best Practice) For Internet Messaging Service Providers And Social Media Service Providers |url=https://mcmc.gov.my/skmmgovmy/media/General/pdf2/DRAFT_Code-of-Conduct_211024-RPD.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260213041916/https://mcmc.gov.my/skmmgovmy/media/General/pdf2/DRAFT_Code-of-Conduct_211024-RPD.pdf |archive-date=2026-02-13 |access-date=2026-02-13 |website=Malaysian Communications And Multimedia Commission}}</ref>The Act has extra-territorial reach, applying to companies outside Malaysia if they provide services within Malaysia and fall under the licensing framework. <ref name=":4">{{Cite book |url=https://lom.agc.gov.my/ilims/upload/portal/akta/outputaktap/2867049_BI/Act%20866-Online%20Safety%20Act%202025.pdf |title=ONLINE SAFETY ACT 2025 - Act 866 |year=2025 |pages=10, 39 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250911161002/https://lom.agc.gov.my/ilims/upload/portal/akta/outputaktap/2867049_BI/Act%20866-Online%20Safety%20Act%202025.pdf |archive-date=2025-09-11 |url-status=live}}</ref>

===Affected platforms===
Based on the 8 million user threshold, major platforms subject to the Act include:

*'''Facebook''': With 31.3 million users (88.2% of population)<ref name=":6">{{Cite web |title=Social Media Users in Malaysia - 2025 {{!}} NapoleonCat |url=https://stats.napoleoncat.com/social-media-users-in-malaysia/2025/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260222223211/https://stats.napoleoncat.com/social-media-users-in-malaysia/2025/ |archive-date=2026-02-22 |access-date= |website=NapoleonCat}}</ref>
*'''Instagram''': With 16.3 million users (46% of population)<ref name=":6" />
*'''Facebook Messenger''': With 23.8 million users (67.1% of population)<ref name=":6" />
*'''LinkedIn''': With 9.9 million users<ref name=":6" />

Other major platforms including WhatsApp, TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, Telegram, and WeChat also operate in Malaysia and are understood to exceed the 8 million user threshold<ref name=":16" /><ref>{{Cite web |title=Here’s why social media firms may come to love Malaysia’s new Online Safety Act |url=https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2026/01/07/heres-why-social-media-firms-may-come-to-love-malaysias-new-online-safety-act/204186 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260201081225/https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2026/01/07/heres-why-social-media-firms-may-come-to-love-malaysias-new-online-safety-act/204186 |archive-date=2026-02-01 |access-date=2026-02-13}}</ref>

===Categories of harmful content===
The Act identifies nine categories of harmful content that platforms must address including child sexual abuse material, financial fraud, harassment, incitement to violence or terrorism, and other harmful categories (exceptions are made for some educational content).<ref>{{Cite book |url=https://lom.agc.gov.my/ilims/upload/portal/akta/outputaktap/2867049_BI/Act 866-Online Safety Act 2025.pdf |title=Online Safety Act 2025 |year=2025 |publication-date=2025 |pages=65-66 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260213213744/https://lom.agc.gov.my/ilims/upload/portal/akta/outputaktap/2867049_BI/Act%20866-Online%20Safety%20Act%202025.pdf |archive-date=2026-02-13 |url-status=live}}</ref> Child sexual abuse and financial fraud are designated as "priority harmful content" subject to additional regulation and faster response requirements.<ref name=":0" /> 

===Platform obligations===
Licensed providers must implement measures to reduce user exposure to harmful content, issue safety guidelines, provide online safety tools, provide user support mechanisms, and establish reporting channels for harmful content. Platforms must submit an Online Safety Plan to the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and make it publicly available.<ref name=":0" />

They must also implement child-specific safeguards including limiting communication between children and adults, regulating recommendation systems to prevent harmful content exposure, addressing addictive design features, and protecting children's personal data.{{CitationNeeded|reason=generated citation is irrelevant >}} <ref name=":7">{{Cite web |last=[404!] |title= |url=https://www.thestar.com.my/tech/tech-news/2025/12/31/what-you-need-to-know-about-the-online-safety-act-2025 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

===Enforcement===
The Act is overseen by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2026-01-01 |title=Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission |url=https://www.mcmc.gov.my/en/media/press-releases/faq-the-online-safety-act-2025-onsa |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260101125158/https://www.mcmc.gov.my/en/media/press-releases/faq-the-online-safety-act-2025-onsa |archive-date=2026-01-01 |website=MCMC}}</ref> Service providers can face fines up to RM10 million for non-compliance with the Act's requirements.<ref name=":4" /> The Act establishes an Online Safety Appeal Tribunal to handle grievances related to Commission decisions and enforcement actions.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web |title=Malaysia Federal Legislation |url=https://lom.agc.gov.my/act-detail.php?act=866&lang=BI |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260303072544/https://lom.agc.gov.my/act-detail.php?act=866&lang=BI |archive-date=2026-03-03 |access-date=2026-03-03}}</ref>

==Age verification and under-16 ban==
In November 2025, the Malaysian government announced plans to ban children under 16 from having social media accounts starting in 2026, raising the minimum age from 13.<ref>{{Cite web |last= |date=2025-11-24 |title=Malaysia says it plans to ban social media for under-16s from 2026 |url=https://www.channelnewsasia.com/asia/malaysia-plans-ban-social-media-under-16-2026-5486331 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260214095212/https://www.channelnewsasia.com/asia/malaysia-plans-ban-social-media-under-16-2026-5486331 |archive-date=2026-02-14 |access-date=2026-03-03 |website=Channel News Asia}}</ref> Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil stated that social media platforms would be required to implement electronic know-your-customer (eKYC) identity checks using government-issued identity documents such as the MyKad identity card, passports or the national digital ID.<ref name=":8">{{Cite web |last=Yusof |first=Iman |date=2025-11-24 |title=Malaysia’s bid to bar under-16s from social media using ID checks stokes privacy fears |url=https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/lifestyle-culture/article/3333904/malaysias-bid-bar-under-16s-social-media-using-id-checks-stokes-privacy-fears |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260101084907/https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/lifestyle-culture/article/3333904/malaysias-bid-bar-under-16s-social-media-using-id-checks-stokes-privacy-fears |archive-date=2026-01-01}}</ref>

The government also raised the use of biometric authentication as part of identity verification, with platforms expected to adopt a combination of document verification, biometrics, and risk signals to limit minors' access.<ref name=":9">{{Cite web |last=Myers |first=Teresa |date=2025-11-25 |title=Malaysia Under-16 Social Media Ban Plans and eKYC Age Checks |url=https://facia.ai/news/malaysia-under-16-social-media-ban-plans-and-ekyc-age-checks/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251207153118/https://facia.ai/news/malaysia-under-16-social-media-ban-plans-and-ekyc-age-checks/ |archive-date=2025-12-07}}</ref> Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching announced a regulatory sandbox process that would allow MCMC to collaborate with platform providers to test age verification mechanisms and AI for the detection of high-risk content.<ref name=":10">{{Cite web |last=Lee |first=Benjamin |last2=Vethasalam |first2=Ragananthini |date=2026-01-28 |title=Age verification system for social media users in the pipeline, Dewan Rakyat told |url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2026/01/28/age-verification-system-for-social-media-users-in-the-pipeline-dewan-rakyat-told |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260130093418/https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2026/01/28/age-verification-system-for-social-media-users-in-the-pipeline-dewan-rakyat-told |archive-date=2026-01-30}}</ref>

===Privacy concerns===
Harris Zainul, director of research at the Institute of Strategic and International Studies Malaysia, warned that the eKYC requirement could compromise user privacy and anonymity, which can be crucial for whistle-blowers and human-rights defenders.<ref name=":8" /> Critics noted that alternatives such as zero-knowledge proofs could confirm users' eligibility without revealing additional personal information, suggesting the eKYC method might be overly intrusive.<ref name=":11">{{Cite web |last=Yeoh |first=Tricia |date=2025-12-11 |title=Malaysia’s Social Media Ban for Under-16s: Protection or Overreach? |url=https://fulcrum.sg/malaysias-social-media-ban-for-under-16s-protection-or-overreach/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260121065903/https://fulcrum.sg/malaysias-social-media-ban-for-under-16s-protection-or-overreach/ |archive-date=2026-01-21}}</ref>

Digital rights organizations raised concerns that mandatory identity verification would create comprehensive databases of social media users that could be vulnerable to data breaches or government surveillance. <ref name=":2" />Privacy advocates warned that once biometric data is collected, there are limited guarantees about how long it will be retained or whether it could be used for purposes beyond age verification.<ref name=":9" />

===Technical accuracy issues===
Experts raised concerns that facial recognition technology-based age verification might not always be accurate and can have racial or gender biases, potentially putting legitimate users at risk of having their accounts deleted.<ref name=":12">{{Cite web |last=Basha |first=Azdhan |date=2025-11-25 |title=Malaysia Joins Global Push To Restrict Under-16 Users On Social Media, Plans ID-Based Age Verification |url=https://www.medianama.com/2025/11/223-malaysia-under-16-users-social-media-id-based-age-verification/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251230074110/https://www.medianama.com/2025/11/223-malaysia-under-16-users-social-media-id-based-age-verification/ |archive-date=2025-12-30}}</ref> Studies have shown that AI age estimation systems perform less accurately on certain demographic groups, raising fairness concerns about who might be disproportionately restricted from accessing social media platforms.<ref name=":9" />

Technical researchers noted that age estimation technology remains imprecise, with error margins that could incorrectly flag adults as minors or vice versa, leading to both over-blocking and under-blocking.<ref name=":12" />

===Impact on children's rights===
Critics argued that the ban could cut children off from support groups, community support systems, and online opportunities for self-expression through art, music, and other forms.<ref name=":12" />  Civil society groups advocated for a more nuanced approach that protects children's privacy while prioritizing their rights to expression and access to information from educational content to mental health resources.<ref name=":2" /><ref name=":11" />

Youth advocacy organizations warned that blanket age restrictions fail to account for the legitimate educational and social benefits that young people derive from social media platforms, including access to educational content, creative communities, and mental health resources.{{CitationNeeded|reason=which organizations?}}

===Enforcement challenges===
International experience suggests enforcement difficulties, with the UK's age verification requirements leading to sharp drops in traffic but users quickly finding workarounds through VPN services, which saw an 1,800% spike in UK sign-ups within three days of implementation.<ref name=":12" /> Technology experts noted that determined users, particularly tech-savvy teenagers, can often circumvent age verification systems through various methods including VPNs, fake IDs, or using accounts registered by adults.{{CitationNeeded|reason=irrelevant citation, only compares to other countries doing the same >}}<ref name=":9" />

==Criticism and concerns==

===Freedom of expression===
Civil society groups including the Centre for Independent Journalism, ARTICLE 19, and Sinar Project raised concerns that the Act grants excessive and largely unchecked powers to authorities to decide what content is considered "harmful", risking increased removal of lawful content.<ref name=":2" /> The groups argued that the broad definition of harmful content could be interpreted subjectively, potentially leading to censorship of legitimate political speech and criticism.<ref name=":13">{{Cite web |last= |date=2025-12-12 |title=Halt hasty imposition of mandatory electronic verification |url=https://sinarproject.org/projects/safeguarding-our-information-ecosystem/halt-hasty-imposition-of-mandatory-electronic-verification-1 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260303084448/https://sinarproject.org/projects/safeguarding-our-information-ecosystem/halt-hasty-imposition-of-mandatory-electronic-verification-1 |archive-date=2026-03-03 |access-date=2026-03-03 |website=Sinar Project}}</ref>

Malaysia's position on the World Press Freedom Index dropped from 73rd in 2023 to 107th in 2024, reflecting growing concerns about shrinking civic spaces.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Malaysia {{!}} RSF |url=https://rsf.org/en/country/malaysia |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260128063103/https://rsf.org/en/country/malaysia |archive-date=2026-01-28}}</ref> Digital rights advocates warned that the Act's implementation occurs against a backdrop of declining press freedom and increasing restrictions on online expression.<ref name=":2" />

Critics argued that the definition of harmful content is broadly worded and open to interpretation, potentially leading platforms to over-censor content to avoid the heavy fines.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Zolkepli |first=Farik |date=2025-12-13 |title=Online Safety Act 2025 welcomed but concerns remain over rights and privacy |url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2025/12/13/online-safety-act-2025-welcomed-but-concerns-remain-over-rights-and-privacy |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260124093758/https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2025/12/13/online-safety-act-2025-welcomed-but-concerns-remain-over-right |archive-date=2026-01-24 |access-date=2026-03-03 |website=The Star}}</ref> Legal experts noted that terms like "harmful to society" lack precise legal definitions, creating uncertainty for both platforms and users about what content is permissible.<ref name=":13" />

===Privacy and surveillance===
The government announced plans to require mandatory electronic Know-Your-Customer (eKYC) verification using government-issued documents for all social media users.<ref name=":8" /> Critics argue this would expose users to identification and tracking, making them vulnerable to state surveillance, selective enforcement, and self-censorship.<ref name=":2" />

Digital rights organizations warned that mandatory identity verification would eliminate online anonymity, which is essential for whistleblowers, journalists, activists, and marginalized communities to speak freely without fear of retaliation.<ref name=":13" /> Privacy advocates noted that once identity databases are created, they could be used for purposes beyond their original intent, including political monitoring or targeted enforcement against critics.<ref name=":13" />

Civil society organizations criticized the lack of transparency and independent oversight in enforcement, noting the risk of abuse and selective enforcement against government critics or opposition voices.<ref name=":2" /> The absence of robust judicial oversight or independent appeals mechanisms raised concerns that enforcement decisions could be politically motivated.<ref name=":13" />

===Platform over-compliance and economic impact===
Technology policy analysts warned that platforms might over-remove content to avoid hefty fines, leading to excessive censorship beyond what the law technically requires.<ref>{{Cite web |last=[404!] |title= |url=https://www.thestar.com.my/tech/tech-news/2025/12/20/platforms-may-over-censor-to-avoid-penalties |url-status=dead}}</ref> This could result in removal of legitimate speech, satire, artistic expression, and political commentary that does not actually violate the Act's provisions.<ref name=":13" />

Smaller platforms and Malaysian tech startups expressed concerns about compliance costs, noting that the requirement to submit Online Safety Plans, implement content moderation systems, and provide user safety tools could create barriers to entry that favor large international platforms.<ref>{{Cite web |last=[404!] |title= |url=https://www.thestar.com.my/business/business-news/2025/12/18/local-platforms-worry-about-compliance-costs |url-status=dead}}</ref> Industry representatives warned this could stifle Malaysia's digital economy and innovation in the tech sector.<ref>{{Cite web |last=[404!] |title= |url=https://www.medianama.com/2025/12/223-malaysia-online-safety-act-platform-compliance-challenges/ |url-status=dead}}</ref>

===Lack of consultation and transparency===
Critics noted that the Act was passed with limited public consultation and without adequate engagement with civil society, digital rights groups, and affected communities.<ref name=":13" /> Media freedom organizations argued that rushed implementation without proper stakeholder input increased the risk of unintended consequences and ineffective enforcement.<ref name=":2" />

Transparency advocates called for MCMC to publish clear enforcement guidelines, data on content removal requests, and regular reports on how the Act is being implemented to ensure accountability.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-12-12 |title=Malaysia: Passage of Online Safety Bill a grave blow to free expression |url=https://www.article19.org/resources/malaysia-passage-of-the-online-safety-bill-a-grave-blow-to-foe/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251211191004/https://www.article19.org/resources/malaysia-passage-of-the-online-safety-bill-a-grave-blow-to-foe/ |archive-date=2025-12-11 |access-date=2026-03-03 |website=Article 19}}</ref>{{CitationNeeded|reason=could not be found >}}<ref>{{Cite web |last=[404!] |title= |url=https://sinarproject.org/digital-rights/updates/online-safety-act-transparency-demands |url-status=dead}}</ref> The lack of public information about how "harmful content" determinations are made raised concerns about arbitrary or inconsistent enforcement.<ref name=":13" />

==Public Petitions and Advocacy==

===Stop eKYC Petition===
In November 2025, a Change.org petition titled "Stop eKYC for social media in Malaysia and promote digital literacy" was launched opposing mandatory identity verification requirements for social media users.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Canary |first=Carol |date=2025-10-28 |title=Stop eKYC for social media in Malaysia and promote digital literacy |url=https://www.change.org/p/stop-ekyc-for-social-media-in-malaysia-and-promote-digital-literacy |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260303085622/https://www.change.org/p/stop-ekyc-for-social-media-in-malaysia-and-promote-digital-literacy |archive-date=2026-03-03 |access-date=2026-03-03 |website=Change.org}}</ref> The petition raises several concerns about the eKYC requirement:

'''Data Breach Risks''': The petition cites international examples of age verification data breaches, including Discord's leak of approximately 70,000 users' identification documents in the UK, which exposed children to doxxing risks and enabled predators to attempt purchasing children's IDs for stalking and potential kidnapping.

'''Identity Theft''': Petitioners warn that bad actors could use leaked identification documents to commit identity theft and open false bank accounts in victims' names.

'''Freedom of Expression''': The petition argues that mandatory ID verification could enable government persecution of critics, citing claims that 30 people per day in the UK are imprisoned for social media posts under similar identity verification systems. Petitioners express concern that "power in excess only leads to an eventual abuse of a system and corruption."

The petition advocates for promoting digital literacy and parental education as alternatives to mandatory identity verification, arguing that child safety should not come "at the cost of privacy, freedom of speech and anonymity."

==Government response==
MCMC officials stated the Act was designed to protect the safety of social media users rather than control their freedom of expression.<ref name=":1" /> Officials emphasized the Act targets platform providers who fail to filter harmful content, not individual users or their right to express opinions online.<ref>{{Cite web |last=[404!] |title= |url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2025/12/28/mcmc-online-safety-act-targets-platforms-not-users |url-status=dead}}</ref>

The government defended the Act as necessary to combat significant financial losses from online scams and protect vulnerable users, particularly children. Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil cited police statistics showing RM2.7 billion in reported losses from online scams between January and November 2025 as evidence of the urgent need for platform accountability.<ref name=":3" />

Officials maintained that the Act does not create new criminal offenses relating to lawful speech or political expression, and that existing constitutional protections for freedom of speech remain in place.<ref name=":0" /> The government argued that the Act's provisions are consistent with international approaches to online safety and platform regulation in countries such as Australia, the United Kingdom, and the European Union.<ref>{{Cite web |last=[404!] |title= |url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2025/12/30/malaysia-online-safety-act-mirrors-international-standards |url-status=dead}}</ref>

Regarding age verification concerns, Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching emphasized that the regulatory sandbox approach would allow testing of different age verification methods to balance child protection with privacy considerations.<ref name=":10" /> She stated that the government remains open to feedback from stakeholders and would consider privacy-preserving alternatives if they prove effective.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-11-18 |title=BERNAMA - Mic To Set Up Aimst College, Hospital |url=https://www.bernama.com/en/general/news.php?id=2245678 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240226171651/https://bernama.com/en/general/news.php?id=2245678 |archive-date=2024-02-26}}</ref>

The government rejected characterizations of the Act as authoritarian or censorious, arguing that democratic societies worldwide are grappling with how to balance online safety with free expression, and that Malaysia's approach is proportionate to the harms being addressed.<ref>{{Cite web |last=[404!] |title= |url=https://www.bernama.com/en/general/news.php?id=2246789 |url-status=dead |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260213213743/https://www.bernama.com/en/general/news.php?id=2246789 |archive-date=13 Feb 2026}}</ref> Minister Fahmi Fadzil stated that the government welcomes constructive dialogue about implementation but remains committed to protecting Malaysians from online harms.<ref>{{Cite web |last=[404!] |title= |url=https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2026/01/20/fahmi-government-committed-to-online-safety |url-status=dead}}</ref>

==References==
{{reflist}}
[[Category:Legislation in Asia]]
[[Category:Malaysian legislations]]
[[Category:Malaysia]]

TP-Link

2026-03-21T03:59:04Z

2001:4BC9:82B:F663:2205:B7FF:FE00:E700: remove category companies

{{CompanyCargo
|Description=Chinese hardware manufacturer specializing in networking equipment.
|Founded=1996
|Industry=Networking
|Logo=TPLINK.png
|ParentCompany=
|Type=Private
|Website=https://tp-link.com/
}}
Founded in 1996, '''{{Wplink|TP-Link}}''' is a Chinese hardware company that is known for its development of smart-home and networking products.

==Brands Under TP-Link==
===Hardware===
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Brand
!Background Information
|-
|TP-Link<ref>{{Cite web |title=TP-Link: Your Smart Home, Simplified |url=https://www.tp-link.com/us/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250715002920/https://www.tp-link.com/us/ |archive-date=15 Jul 2025 |access-date=15 Jul 2025 |website=TP-Link}}</ref>
|TP-Link's overall brand, generally used for their consumer networking products.
|-
|TAPO<ref>{{Cite web |title=Tapo <nowiki>|</nowiki> Smart Devices for Smart Living |url=https://www.tapo.com/us/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250715124011/https://www.tapo.com/us/ |archive-date=15 Jul 2025 |access-date=15 Jul 2025 |website=TAPO}}</ref>
|Branding generally used for TP-Link's consumer line of smart-home products, including smart switches, lights, and security cameras.
|-
|Deco<ref>{{Cite web |title=Award-Winning Best Mesh WiFi Systems By TP-Link |url=https://www.tp-link.com/us/deco-mesh-wifi/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250715103109/https://www.tp-link.com/us/deco-mesh-wifi/ |archive-date=15 Jul 2025 |access-date=15 Jul 2025 |website=TAPO}}</ref>
|Branding for TP-Link's consumer line of mesh WiFi routers.
|-
|Kasa Smart<ref>{{Cite web |title=Creating a true Smart Home experience all in one App <nowiki>|</nowiki> Kasa Smart |url=https://www.kasasmart.com/us |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250717154835/https://www.kasasmart.com/us |archive-date=17 Jul 2025 |access-date=15 Jul 2025 |website=Kasa Smart}}</ref>
|Branding for an alternative line of smart-home products from TP-Link. Less comprehensive than the TAPO line of products.
|-
|Omada<ref>{{Cite web |title=Omada - Networks Empower Business <nowiki>|</nowiki> TP-Link |url=https://www.omadanetworks.com/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250715094230/https://www.omadanetworks.com/ |archive-date=15 Jul 2025 |access-date=15 Jul 2025 |website=Omada Networks}}</ref>
|Branding used for TP-Link's enterprise line of networking products.
|-
|VIGI<ref>{{Cite web |title=VIGI Intelligent Surveillance Solutions <nowiki>|</nowiki> TP-Link |url=https://www.vigi.com/us/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250718073428/https://www.vigi.com/us/ |archive-date=18 Jul 2025 |access-date=15 Jul 2025 |website=VIGI}}</ref>
|Branding used for enterprise security cameras developed by TP-Link.
|-
|Aginet<ref>{{Cite web |title=Aginet Solution - TP-Link Service Provider |url=https://service-provider.tp-link.com/aginet-solution/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250709063248/https://service-provider.tp-link.com/aginet-solution/ |archive-date=9 Jul 2025 |access-date=15 Jul 2025 |website=TP-Link}}</ref>
|Branding for alternative line of TP-Link modems and routers.
|}

===Software===
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Brand
!Background Information
|-
|HomeShield<ref>{{Cite web |title=HomeShield <nowiki>|</nowiki> TP-Link |url=https://www.tp-link.com/us/homeshield/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250713220649/https://www.tp-link.com/us/homeshield/ |archive-date=13 Jul 2025 |access-date=15 Jul 2025 |website=TP-Link}}</ref>
|Branding for home-network-protection software offered by TP-Link.
|-
|Tapo Care<ref>{{Cite web |title=Tapo Care <nowiki>|</nowiki> TP-Link |url=https://www.tp-link.com/us/tapocare/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250709042516/https://www.tp-link.com/us/tapocare/ |archive-date=9 Jul 2025 |access-date=15 Jul 2025 |website=TP-Link}}</ref>
|TP-Link's branding for their TAPO cameras' cloud-storage subscription service.
|}

==Use of forced arbitration==
TP-Link currently includes a [[forced arbitration]] clause in their terms of use agreements.<ref>{{Cite web |title=TP-Link Privacy Policy - Terms of Use |url=https://www.tp-link.com/us/about-us/privacy/ |website=TP-Link |date=26 Sep 2024 |access-date=15 Jul 2025 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241227073235/https://www.tp-link.com/us/about-us/privacy/
|archive-date=27 Dec 2024}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Terms of Use |url=https://privacy.tp-link.com/web/official/terms-of-use?region=US |website=TP-Link |date=28 Aug 2024 |access-date=15 Jul 2025 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241224185231/https://privacy.tp-link.com/web/official/terms-of-use?region=US |archive-date=24 Dec 2024}}</ref> This arbitration clause has been present in TP-Link's terms of use since at least 2019.<ref>{{Cite web |title=(Archived) TP-Link Privacy Policy - Terms of Use |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190325002650/https://www.tp-link.com/us/about-us/privacy/ |website=Archive.org |date=25 Mar 2019 |access-date=15 Jul 2025 |url-status=live}}</ref>

===Tapo app===
The TP-Link Tapo app is [[forced app download|required]] to set up and use Tapo smart devices that aren't Matter certified. This app requires agreement to the TP-Link terms of use, which includes an arbitration clause in order to continue setup or to access Tapo smart devices.<gallery>
File:Tapo app opening screen.png|The screen that appears when a user first opens the TP-Link Tapo app. Note that the "Continue" text is greyed out, as the user has not agreed to the terms of use and privacy policy.
File:Tapo app opening screen checkbox selected.png|The screen that appears when a user first opens the TP-Link Tapo app. The user has accepted the terms of use and privacy policy documents, allowing them to proceed.
File:Tapo app Terms of Use.png|The Tapo Terms of Use document as seen in the Tapo app.
File:Tapo app arbitration clause.png|The Arbitration Clause found within the Tapo Terms of Use document, as seen in the Tapo app.
</gallery>

===Deco app===
Similarly to the Tapo app, the TP-Link Deco app is [[forced app download|required]] to set up and use Deco mesh routers. This app requires agreement to the TP-Link terms of use, which includes an arbitration clause in order to continue setup or to access Deco mesh routers.
<gallery>
File:Deco app opening screen.png|The screen that appears when a user first opens the TP-Link Deco app. Note that the "Continue" text is greyed out, as the user has not agreed to the terms of use and privacy policy.
File:Deco app opening screen checkbox selected.png|The same screen that appears when a user first opens the TP-Link Deco app. The user has accepted the terms of use and privacy policy documents, allowing them to proceed.
File:Deco app Terms of Use.png|The Deco Terms of Use document as seen in the Deco app.
File:Deco app arbitration clause.png|The Arbitration Clause found within the TP-Link Terms of Use document, as seen in the Deco app.
File:Deco app Privacy Policy.png|The Deco Privacy Policy document as seen in the Deco app.
</gallery>

===Kasa app===
The TP-Link Kasa app is [[forced app download|required]] to set up and use Kasa smart devices. This app [[Forced account|requires an account]] and agreement to the TP-Link terms of use, which includes an arbitration clause in order to continue setup or to access Kasa smart devices.
<gallery>
File:Kasa app opening screen.png|The first screen that appears upon opening the Kasa app. Note that there is no option to proceed without an account.
File:Kasa app account creation screen.png|The screen that appears when a user tries to create an account in the Kasa app. Note that the "Create Account" text is greyed out, as the user has not agreed to the terms of use and privacy policy.
File:Kasa app account creation screen checkbox selected.png|The account creation screen after user has accepted the terms of use and privacy policy documents. Note that the "Create Account" button is now able to be selected.
File:Kasa app updated Terms of Service.png|The screen that appears in the Kasa app when a user attempts to sign into an account, but has not accepted the updated terms of service and privacy policy. The user cannot proceed past this screen without pressing "Confirm" which is not possible until the user has accepted the new terms.
File:Kasa app updated Terms of Service checkbox selected.png|The screen that appears in the Kasa app when a user attempts to sign into an account, and has accepted the updated terms of service and privacy policy. The user can now proceed by pressing "Confirm."
File:Kasa app Terms of Use.png|The Kasa Terms of Use document as seen in the Kasa app. There is a typo in the document, as the word "Term" in the title should presumably be "Terms."
File:Kasa app arbitration clause.png|The Arbitration Clause found within the Kasa Terms of Use document, as seen in the Kasa app.
</gallery>

===Omada app===
The TP-Link Omada app is [[forced app download|required]] to set up and use Omada networking equipment. This app requires agreement to the TP-Link terms of use, which includes an arbitration clause in order to continue setup or to access Omada devices, however, the arbitration clause within the Omada app does provide an option for the user to opt-out, as well as instructions on how to do so. Arbitration is still opted-in by default.
<gallery>
File:Omada app opening screen.png|The screen that appears when a user first opens the TP-Link Omada app. Note that the "Continue" text is greyed out, as the user has not agreed to the terms of use and privacy policy.
File:Omada app opening screen checked.png|The screen that appears when a user first opens the TP-Link Omada app. The user has accepted the terms of use and privacy policy documents, allowing them to proceed.
File:Omada app Terms of Use.png|The Omada Terms of Use document as seen in the Omada App.
File:Omada app arbitration clause.png|The Arbitration Clause found within the Omada Terms of Use document, as seen in the Omada app. Instructions are provided on how to opt-out of arbitration.
</gallery>

===Tether App===
The TP-Link Tether app is [[forced app download|required]] for some maintenance operation on consumer network devices like routers, access points, repeaters.
The devices most of the time allow a web configuration without associating to the app, however for some of these devices the firmware section of the support site is not provided, so the only way to update the device's firmware is registration, link to the device and use the app, or login to the device itself and use the integrated update procedure. Devices are actively locked-in to allow login only from the network subnet of the device.
For instance, at date of writing (23 October 2025) the most updated firwmare file for Archer C6 v4 is 1.15.0 Build 250729 Rel.63726n(4555), which cannot be found in any TP-Link support website. The most recent I found is version Archer C6(EU)_V4_1.14.30 Build 250729 found on the [https://web.archive.org/save/https://www.tp-link.com/en/support/download/archer-c6/v4/#Firmware global TP-Link support website]. If it's good for Tether app to deploy in produts, should be good for a standard http download.

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]
[[Category:Companies using forced arbitration clauses]]
[[Category:Devices requiring account for initial setup]]

Firefox

2026-03-21T03:57:10Z

2001:4BC9:82B:F663:2205:B7FF:FE00:E700: /* References */ fix archive date

{{Stub}}
{{ProductCargo
|Company=Mozilla
|ReleaseYear=2004
|InProduction=Yes
|ArticleType=Product
|Category=Browser, Web Browser
|Website=https://www.firefox.com/
|Description=Firefox is a free and open-source browser created and owned by Mozilla.
|Logo=Firefox_Logo.svg}}

'''{{wplink|Firefox}}''' is a free and open-source web browser developed by the [[Mozilla]] Foundation. It is officially available on Windows (10 and above<ref>{{Cite web |date=21 Feb 2025 |title=Firefox users on Windows 7, 8 and 8.1 moving to Extended Support Release |url=https://support.mozilla.org/en-US/kb/firefox-users-windows-7-8-and-81-moving-extended-support |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250729074747/https://support.mozilla.org/en-US/kb/firefox-users-windows-7-8-and-81-moving-extended-support |archive-date=29 Jul 2025 |access-date=20 Aug 2025 |website=Mozilla Support}}</ref>), macOS and Linux.<ref>{{Cite web |date=20 Aug 2025 |title=Firefox for desktop |url=https://www.firefox.com/en-US/browsers/desktop/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250729082008/https://www.firefox.com/en-US/browsers/desktop/ |archive-date=29 Jul 2025 |access-date=20 Aug 2025 |website=Firefox}}</ref>

==Consumer impact summary==
{{Ph-C-CIS}}
===User privacy===
Despite marketing itself as a security browser, by default "technical and interaction data" is sent to Firefox.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Manage technical and interaction data collection settings in Firefox|url=https://support.mozilla.org/en-US/kb/technical-and-interaction-data|website=Mozilla Support|access-date=August 31, 2025 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260222200928/https://support.mozilla.org/en-US/kb/technical-and-interaction-data |archive-date=22 Feb 2026}}</ref> You can easily disable this with an [[opt-out]] option in the GUI settings.

However, some options cannot be conveniently disabled, and requires fiddling the settings in <code>about:config</code>. Some of these examples include:
*Integrated Pocket technology as a built-in extension, which in its Privacy Policy uses Google Analytics.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Pocket|url=https://getpocket.com/privacy?t=privacypolicy|date=August 27, 2025|website=Pocket|access-date=August 31, 2025 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251121184427/https://getpocket.com/privacy?t=privacypolicy |archive-date=21 Nov 2025}}</ref>
*Google Analytics in the browser.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Google Analytics is used to track users. #3145|url=https://github.com/mozilla/addons/issues/3145|website=GitHub|access-date=August 31, 2025 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251118130843/https://github.com/mozilla/addons/issues/3145 |archive-date=18 Nov 2025}}</ref> Firefox stated they will not "give the 'data directly to Google'" but will "[collect] aggregate and non-identifiable data in numbers to ensure our development/UX changes are met well. [...] We need some data, anonymised and aggregated, to do this."

===User freedom===
*Heavily configurable via <code>about:config</code>.

==Incidents==
{{Ph-C-Inc}}
This is a list of all consumer protection incidents related to this product. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{PAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].

===Mandatory add-on signing (2016)===
In 2015, Mozilla introduced extension signing (add-on signing) to Firefox, meaning the browser would show a warning if the user ran an extension not approved by Mozilla. This was later expanded to block the extension, but the user was able to override it by modifying an <code>about:config</code> property. In 2016, Mozilla took that option away as well. This means Mozilla is able to remotely disable extensions, removing ownership from the end user.

Shortly after extension signing was announced, the user base already responded negatively, stating how this would limit the freedom of power users.<ref>[Introducing Extension Signing: A Safer Add-on Experience | Mozilla Add-ons Community Blog https://archive.today/2024.01.22-024009/https://blog.mozilla.org/addons/2015/02/10/extension-signing-safer-experience/]</ref>

On May 3rd, 2019, a technical issue with Mozilla's add-on signing service forcibly disabled all extensions of every Firefox instance connected to the Internet (excluding older versions that predate add-on signing).

In March 2025, Firefox versions before 128 (and <abbr title="Extended Support Release">ESR</abbr> 115) were rendered defective as a result of Mozilla no longer providing extension signing support for those versions, resulting in them losing the ability to run extensions.

<ref>[https://digdeeper.club/articles/mozilla.xhtml#historyofcontrol Mozilla - Devil Incarnate - History of anti-control] - Dig Deeper ([http://web.archive.org/web/20260211220133/https://digdeeper.club/articles/mozilla.xhtml Archived])</ref><ref>[https://archive.today/2016.04.20-194222/https://wiki.mozilla.org/Add-ons/Extension_Signing Add-ons/Extension Signing - MozillaWiki (2016-04-20)]</ref>

===Mozilla introduces TOS to Firefox (''02/27/2025'')===
{{Main|Mozilla introduces TOS to Firefox}}
On February 26th, 2025 Mozilla announced in their blog that they are introducing Terms of Use to Firefox, effective June 10th, 2025. <ref>{{Cite web |last= |date=2025-02-26 |title=Firefox Terms of Use |url=https://www.mozilla.org/en-US/about/legal/terms/firefox/ |url-status=live |access-date=2025-08-18 |website=Mozilla |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260112211331/https://www.mozilla.org/en-US/about/legal/terms/firefox/ |archive-date=12 Jan 2026}}</ref> Their reasoning is to "give [the user] more transparency over [their] rights and permissions as [they] use Firefox".<ref>{{Cite web |last=Varma |first=Ajit |date=2025-02-26 |title=Introducing a terms of use and updated privacy notice for Firefox |url=https://blog.mozilla.org/en/firefox/firefox-terms-of-use/ |url-status=live |website=Mozilla Blog |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260111132423/https://blog.mozilla.org/en/firefox/firefox-terms-of-use/ |archive-date=11 Jan 2026}}</ref> In the same blog post they announce an update to their Privacy Policy.

Under section "Mozilla Can Update or Terminate This Agreement" in the ToS, it is announced that updates to it will be posted online, and continued use of Firefox is taken as the user's acceptance of the new terms. No mention is made of any other commitment to notify the user (in-browser notification, etc.). In the next section, "Termination", it is explicitly stated that Mozilla will "try to notify [the user]" at their email address or next time they try to access their account, in case Mozilla denies or suspend anyone's access to Firefox.

===Mozilla removed the "nonexclusive, royalty-free, worldwide license" in the Firefox TOS (10/06/2025)===
On June 10th, 2025 Mozilla has removed the "nonexclusive, royalty-free, worldwide license" in the "[https://www.mozilla.org/en-US/about/legal/terms/firefox/#you-give-mozilla-certain-rights-and-permissions You Give Mozilla Certain Rights and Permissions]" page of where the controversial [[terms of service]] clause used to be last seen<ref>{{Cite web |title=Firefox: About Your Rights |url=https://www.mozilla.org/en-US/about/legal/terms/firefox/ |url-status=deviated |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250515140703/https://www.mozilla.org/en-US/about/legal/terms/firefox/ |archive-date=15 May 2025 |access-date=20 Oct 2025 |website=Mozilla}}</ref> on March 15th of 2025. It is currently unknown why this change was made, as of current writing.

==Alternatives==
*[https://floorp.app/en-US Floorp]
*[https://librewolf.net/ LibreWolf]
*[https://mullvad.net/browser Mullvad Browser]
*[https://zen-browser.app/ Zen Browser]

==See also==
*[[Brave browser|Brave]]
*[[DuckDuckGo Browser|DuckDuckGo Browser]]
*[[Google Chrome]]
*[[Microsoft Edge]]

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]

Bootloader unlocking

2026-03-21T03:55:43Z

2001:4BC9:82B:F663:2205:B7FF:FE00:E700: /* References */ fix bunch of stuff

{{Incomplete}}{{ToneWarning}}

The bootloader is a special program on a device that loads the operating system when the device is turned on. Bootloaders are typically established by the manufacturer and shipped to retailers and consumers in a "locked" state, where the bootloader can only load the operating system (OS) delivered by the manufacturer. [[wikipedia:Bootloader_unlocking|Unlocking a bootloader]] disables the checks that force the use of a particular operating system, granting the ability to run third-party operating systems such as Linux or [[Android]] without [[Google]] software.

==Background==
Unlocking the bootloader of a smartphone enables the user to install an alternative operating system on the device, also known as a custom ROM.<ref>{{Cite web |date=19 Aug 2025 |title=Android ROM |url=https://www.pcmag.com/encyclopedia/term/android-rom |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241223222958/https://www.pcmag.com/encyclopedia/term/android-rom |archive-date=23 Dec 2024 |website=PCMag}}</ref>

'''Difference from Rooting'''

Rooting a device allows users to bypass restrictions from within the OS, while it is running. Conversely, bootloader unlocking allows rewriting the storage drive where the OS is installed, but does not grant any further abilities after the OS is loaded. Bootloader unlocking does, however, allow users to enable root access, by either manually editing the loaded operating system or using an app to do so automatically.{{Citation needed|date=12 Mar 2026}}

See [[Jailbreak]] for more info.

==Benefits of unlocked bootloaders==

==='''Better Privacy'''===
Most custom ROMs do not contain any components that send data to manufacturers, Google, or their partner companies.<ref name=":0" /> In some cases, they even contain components that prevent individual apps from doing so, such as:

*[https://doc.e.foundation/support-topics/advanced_privacy_main.html /e/'s Advanced Privacy]
*[https://calyxos.org/docs/tech/datura-details/ CalyxOS's Datura Firewall]
*[https://github.com/iodeOS/ota iodéOS's blocker]

====Workaround Google Play Services====
Default Android systems deeply integrate with [[wikipedia:Google_Play_Services|Google Play Services]] (and [[Google Mobile Services]] (GMS)). This is a system process that requires access to files, contacts, storage, call logs, SMS messages, location, camera, and microphone. Without this process running, many apps will not function.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Aragon |first=Jonah |date=21 Jul 2024 |title=Android |url=https://www.privacyguides.org/en/android/#install-a-custom-distribution |url-status=live |access-date=17 Aug 2025 |website=Privacy Guides |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260131014956/https://www.privacyguides.org/en/android/ |archive-date=31 Jan 2026}}</ref> Alternative systems avoid this process entirely, or use a privacy-preserving workaround such as:

*[https://grapheneos.org/features#sandboxed-google-play GrapheneOS's Sandboxed Google Play]
*[https://github.com/microg/GmsCore/wiki MicroG]<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gordon |first=Arielle |date=7 Jun 2019 |title=The Open Source Project That Keeps Google's Hands Off Your Android Data |url=https://www.vice.com/en/article/the-open-source-project-that-keeps-googles-hands-off-your-android-data/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250630130025/https://www.vice.com/en/article/the-open-source-project-that-keeps-googles-hands-off-your-android-data/ |archive-date=30 Jun 2025 |access-date=19 Aug 2025 |website=Vice}}</ref>
*[https://unifiedpush.org/ Unified Push]

==='''Extending device lifespan'''===
Most custom ROMs do not contain [[bloatware]] and can thus be used to extend the longevity of phones that have become unusable due to later updates requiring more performance and storage. Especially on low-end phones, these updates often exhaust the built-in storage after as little as two years.{{Citation needed}} This renders the device slow and unstable, without room for user data. Custom ROMs are typically much smaller than the manufacturer's software.{{Citation needed}} Consequently, many old phones can run even faster with a custom ROM than they did when new, extending their useful lifespan.{{Citation needed|date=12 Mar 2026|reason=Low verifiability}}<ref>{{Cite web |title=By how much do custom roms really extend Phone lifespans? |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/AndroidQuestions/comments/gdq2rc/comment/fpj11ay/ |access-date=2025-08-23 |website=Reddit |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260223033349/https://old.reddit.com/r/AndroidQuestions/comments/gdq2rc/by_how_much_do_custom_roms_really_extend_phone/fpj11ay/ |archive-date=23 Feb 2026}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-03-10 |title=Xiaomi Redmi 8a - olivelite with Dual Sim |url=https://community.e.foundation/t/xiaomi-redmi-8a-olivelite-with-dual-sim/29192/12 |url-status=live |access-date=2025-08-23 |website=/e/OS Community |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250907145946/https://community.e.foundation/t/xiaomi-redmi-8a-olivelite-with-dual-sim/29192/12 |archive-date=7 Sep 2025}}</ref>

===='''Updates after the manufacturer abandons the device'''====
Low-end devices usually receive only a few years or even months of security updates.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Android Update Matrix |url=https://www.androidupdatetracker.com/update-matrix |access-date=2025-08-23 |website=Android Update Tracker |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251206020040/https://www.androidupdatetracker.com/update-matrix |archive-date=6 Dec 2025}}</ref> Since most custom ROMs are built by the open-source community, installing one of these custom ROMs allows users to receive security updates for the Android system and default components, such as web browser engines and PDF readers, for as long as custom ROMs are developed. Popular custom ROMs such as LineageOS and GrapheneOS have lasted over 10 years, and are open source, allowing anyone to maintain them and continue their development. <ref>{{Cite web |last=ciwrl |first= |date=2016-12-24 |title=A fork in the road |url=https://www.cyanogenmod.org/blog/a-fork-in-the-road |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161225091051/https://www.cyanogenmod.org/blog/a-fork-in-the-road |archive-date=2016-12-25 |access-date=2026-02-26 |website=Cyanogen Mod}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=26 Feb 2026 |title=History |url=https://grapheneos.org/history/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260225034058/https://grapheneos.org/history/ |archive-date=25 Feb 2026 |access-date=26 Feb 2026 |website=GrapheneOS}}</ref>
==='''Control'''===
Some applications cannot be removed easily with the default OS. A custom ROM gives users complete control over what is in their operating system, such as preinstalled apps and system themes. <ref>https://www.reddit.com/r/privacy/comments/k2320l/cant_delete_certain_apps_on_android_only_disable/ ([http://web.archive.org/web/20230615024140/https://old.reddit.com/r/privacy/comments/k2320l/cant_delete_certain_apps_on_android_only_disable/ Archived])</ref>{{Citation needed}}
==Why most bootloaders are locked==

===Security===
A locked bootloader protects the device from an [[wikipedia:Evil_maid_attack|Evil Maid Attack]]. This attack occurs when a person with physical access to a device manipulates the operating system, typically when the device is left unattended or when handed over for inspection by authorities. Locking the bootloader ensures that the operating system remains intact and cannot be altered from the state in which the manufacturer released it.{{Citation needed|date=12 Mar 2026}}

===DRM and ecosystem control===
Some devices hold [[Digital_rights_management|DRM]] keys, which are deleted when the bootloader is unlocked. Other devices go so far as to wipe proprietary drivers. <ref>{{Cite web |title=Sony wipes TA/ partition |url=https://github.com/melontini/bootloader-unlock-wall-of-shame/blob/4ca762b08e77034db2a5ceb78703ac4789349ed0/brands/sony/README.md?plain=1#L23 |url-status=live |website=GitHub |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260223033412/https://github.com/zenfyrdev/bootloader-unlock-wall-of-shame/blob/4ca762b08e77034db2a5ceb78703ac4789349ed0/brands/sony/README.md?plain=1 |archive-date=23 Feb 2026}}</ref> This allows manufacturers to force the use of their software and maintain control over devices, preventing unsupported devices from receiving updates, the removal of some apps and services, and the bypassing of other DRM such as the iPhone's component DRM.{{Citation needed|date=12 Mar 2026}}

===Locks from mobile carriers===
Some mobile carriers have completely restricted the unlocking of bootloaders on specific models of cellphones that they sell to prevent bypassing carrier restrictions.{{Citation needed}}

==Availability==
Unlocking the bootloader is [[Phones that do not allow bootloader unlock|possible on some, but not all, Android devices]].

Apple products such as iPhones do not support unlocking the bootloader, utilizing digital signatures to verify the authenticity of the firmware and bootloader, making bootloader unlocking difficult.<ref>{{Cite web |date=26 Feb 2026 |title=Apple |url=https://github.com/zenfyrdev/bootloader-unlock-wall-of-shame/blob/main/brands/apple/README.md |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260114112736/https://github.com/zenfyrdev/bootloader-unlock-wall-of-shame/blob/main/brands/apple/README.md |archive-date=14 Jan 2026 |access-date=26 Feb 2026 |website=Github}}</ref> Instead, People jailbreak their iPhones using 3rd party software.<ref>https://www.quora.com/Can-you-install-a-different-operating-system-on-your-iPhone-if-it-was-not-sold-with-one-built-in-from-Apple</ref><ref>https://youtu.be/O0_Aou3eZl8 ([https://preservetube.com/watch?v=O0_Aou3eZl8 Archived])</ref>

==Alternative Android-based Operating Systems==
These include, but are not limited to:

*[https://grapheneos.org/ GrapheneOS]
*[https://iode.tech/iodeos/ IodéOS]
*[https://e.foundation/e-os/ /e/OS]
*[https://lineageos.org/ LineageOS]
*[https://calyxos.org/ CalyxOS]

*[https://source.android.com/ AOSP (Android Open Source Project)] , also known as "stock" Android.<ref>https://eylenburg.github.io/android_comparison.htm ([http://web.archive.org/web/20260115003706/https://eylenburg.github.io/android_comparison.htm Archived])</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Patel |first=Pratham |date=20 Feb 2024 |title=5 De-Googled Android-based Operating Systems to Free Your Smartphone from Google and other Big Tech |url=https://itsfoss.com/android-distributions-roms/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250707220149/https://itsfoss.com/android-distributions-roms/ |archive-date=7 Jul 2025 |access-date=19 Aug 2025 |website=It's FOSS}}</ref>

==References==
<references />

[[Category:Common terms]]

Article suggestions

2026-03-21T03:48:01Z

2001:4BC9:82B:F663:2205:B7FF:FE00:E700: /* Reference List */ fix bunch of stuff

This page is dedicated towards providing a communal list for users to submit potential articles to feature on the wiki, and to give editors inspiration on what pages they might want to add to the wiki. If you create an article based on an entry from this list, or see that someone else has done so, please make sure to delete the row from this page in order to prevent confusion.

Sources should be inserted within the 'refs' section of the table. If using the visual editor, take advantage of '<nowiki/>'''insert reference'''<nowiki/>' via ''''ctrl + shift + k'''<nowiki/>' so that the sources are quick to add to future articles. If you are using the source editor, feel free to copy and paste the formatting from other correctly formatted references on the page. The more sources you include with an article idea, the more likely it is that others will pick the article idea up and run with it, so please attempt to include a good variety of descriptive sources!

Please take note of the wiki's [[Consumer Rights Wiki:Inclusion guidelines|Inclusion criteria]] when submitting article suggestions. If you see article suggestions here which do not fit the Wiki, feel free to remove them, leaving your reasoning in an edit note.

If you are an editor looking for further inspiration to write an article, you can also check out the [[Louis Rossmann - Video Directory|Louis Rossmann video directory]] for a good collection of potential articles.

==Example==
Below is an example of what an entry should appear as:
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Company
!Summary of Incident
!Refs
|-
|[[Nintendo]]
|In 2025, the company Nintendo stripped Switch 2 consoles that used the MIG switch cartridge of all online functionality
|<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |last=Scattered Brain |date=Jun 16, 2025 |title=Soo... Nintendo banned my Switch 2 (Don't try the MIG Switch!) |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ExgYTA18_vo&t=656s |url-status=live |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=ExgYTA18_vo |archive-date=22 Feb 2026|access-date=Jun 18, 2025 |website=[[YouTube]]}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite news |last=Orland |first=Kyle |date=Jun 17, 2025 |title=Switch 2 users report online console bans after running personal game “backups” |url=https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2025/06/playing-personal-game-backups-could-get-your-switch-2-banned-by-nintendo/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251222013641/https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2025/06/playing-personal-game-backups-could-get-your-switch-2-banned-by-nintendo/ |archive-date=22 Dec 2025|access-date=Jun 19, 2025 |work=Ars Technica}}</ref>
|}

==List of incidents not yet covered==
{| class="wikitable sortable"
!Company
!Summary of Incident
!Refs
|-
|Regus
|A flexible office / workplace provider for freelancers, contractors, small businesses, etc.
This is specifically for their Virtual Office service. I am sure they apply these same predatory and deceptive tactics with the rest of their services as well.
Locks you into a contract for virtual services that they may terminate at any time. You can too only if you follow very specific and exaggerated terms. They will bill you for the entire agreement even with it terminated. You lose access to the services immediately upon termination but are forced to pay for the rest of the agreement. They are predatory with agreements and will not allow you to break them and will charge you for the entire thing regardless of what happens.
Forced arbitration. Force you to waive any right to class action lawsuits.
Contract comes with terms hidden in their "house rules" document, automatically opting the user into services they did not knowingly agree to, by default. These services are NOT included in the original contract in any way except through the referencing to other documents like the "Terms of Service" and "House Rules", not disclosed ahead of time. They clearly show a lower price and do not clearly show any of the additional services you unknowingly opt into.
They lead you into a low price to get the agreement signed. Once signed, you cannot escape or get out with their terms. You find out later that they've made you agree to additional services by default. They require YOU to jump through hoops to opt out of those services, and they bury the information to do it.
They have predatory auto-renewals for the contracts that are typically months to years long, with many being sold into higher 1 year+ contracts for "savings" and "discounts". These auto-renewals cannot be canceled without 3 MONTHS notice! If it renews, you are locked into another term which you will be forced to pay in full even if you terminate.
This is all for VIRTUAL office services that cost nothing to provide or remove.
A lot of deceptive patterns including, but not limited to: Comparison prevention, hidden costs, hidden subscription, obstruction.
|[https://serviceagreement.regus.com/TermsPDF/VirtualOffice/Global20250301.pdf Terms of Service]
[https://serviceagreement.regus.com/PreviewHouseRule.aspx?guidId=840179ed-c894-4e91-8ccc-3b882bcf4b38 House Rules]
[https://www.myregus.com/help#:~:text=you%20can%20give%20notice%20to%20terminate%20your%20agreement%20at%20anytime%20in%20your%20online%20account%20%2D%20but%20you%20will%20be%20charged%20until%20the%20end%20of%20your%20agreement%20term. Help Page - terminate anytime but pay everything]
|-
|GM
|GM originally released the EV1 in 1996 on a lease program, and then instead of selling the much loved used/leased vehicles to consumers, they decided to crush the grand majority of them. Very few surviving examples can be found today, with most in private collections or at universities.
Because it was seen as a failure to major auto manufacturers, It would take over a decade before another EV was produced in the United States.
|
|-
|Wizards of the Coast
|Wizards of the Coast (WotC) seems to be positioning itself to move away from publishing physical books that last forever in favor of pushing digital-only sales and micro-transactions of content and subscriptions. They attempted to amend the OGL (Open Game License) to include language that would require third party authors of D&D content to give up rights to their own content, so WotC can sell it to consumers without crediting the original authors.
Notably, as a direct response to these anti-consumer activities and policies, a select few of the third party publishers have instead decided to come out with their own systems that are not beholden to WotC's whims. A couple of examples include ''Draw Steel'' and ''Daggerheart''. An earlier conflict prompted Paizo to release their own version of the classic D20-based tabletop RPG, ''Pathfinder'', when WotC started releasing the fourth edition of it's rule-set.
|
|-
|Foxconn
|Foxconn is an electronics manufacturer with various human rights violations on it's record. They've also convinced the government to use eminent domain to take people's property to build factories, that never end up using the factories.
|
|-
|ASUS (ROG)
|Releases bios updates via windows executable, meaning that you can't update your bios to the latest version to amend a security vulnerability or fix an issue unless you're running microsoft windows. The windows executable simply extracts a binary file, that you can drop on a thumb drive. This could be easily done via direct download to support other operating systems.
|
|-
|Symantec
|Product: Norton Internet Security.
This one might be tough to document, because it's been slowly going on for the past 15 years. Norton used to offer a great internet security package with a ton of good and useful services for a decent price. Unfortunately, slowly over the years, they've gone further and further down the rabbit hole of charging more money for fewer and fewer features, and then locking some of those features behind even more paywalls and micro-transactions.
|
|-
|8Player
|In early March, 2026, the Apple TV application called 8Player began displaying a notice informing users who had already paid for the app, that the app would not continue to function unless they agreed to an ongoing subscription.
The text of the notice says the following:
----Thank you for being a valued 8player user.

To keep improving the app and delivering new features, 8player is moving to a subscription model.

You can continue using the full version at no cost until April 15, 2026.

After that, activate the subscription in the app to keep full access. Your existing features will remain available, and no action is needed today.

Thank you for supporting 8player over the years.

[[:File:8player-subscription-model-notice.png]]
|
|-
|[[ABC Financial Services]]
|Manages memberships and recurring service subscriptions for other companies. Prevents customers from being able to cancel a service by locking them into a never-ending cycle of auto renewals, and not allowing the customer to opt out of auto renewal.
|-
|Affinity / [[Canva]] page created needs editors to help
|Canva purchases [[Serif]]; the owner of perpetual license design software Affinity Publisher, Designer, and Photo on March 26th 2024. Provides a pledge to assure users that Canva will not "ruin" the suite. In October 2025, Affinity users are locked out of the community forum for a new "Creative Freedom" announcement on October 30th 2025. Complete radio silence for a whole month while they tease long term users on Twitter and Discord. Finally on October 30th 2025, the new Affinity software is announced as "free". Instead, all creative professionals that used the original software are forced to create a new Canva account to access the new Affinity and thus agree to Canva's ToS<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |date=2025-10-30 |title=Canva Terms of Use |url=https://www.canva.com/policies/terms-of-use/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260128105545/https://www.canva.com/policies/terms-of-use/ |archive-date=28 Jan 2026|website=Canva Legal Trust Center}}</ref>. Affinity redirects the pledge page to an announcement for the new software, effectively burying the original pledge<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |date=2024-03-27 |title=The Affinity and Canva Pledge |url=https://affinity.serif.com/en-us/press/newsroom/affinity-and-canva-pledge |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251002083749/https://affinity.serif.com/en-us/press/newsroom/affinity-and-canva-pledge/ |archive-date=2025-10-02 |website=web.archive.org}}</ref>. Questions about Canva now being able to monetize the work of professionals to train their own AI models sold to Canva users are left unanswered. Free, but at what cost?
EDIT: Initial article has been written but needs more work, citation, and verification. [[Canva adds arbitration clause for future Affinity Studio users|See this article here]].
|<ref name=":1" /><ref name=":4" />
|-
|[[Alibaba]]
|[[wikipedia:Alibaba_Group|WP]]
|
|-
|[[Amazon]]
|Amazon renders Fire TV Blaster unusable, offers Amazon gift card to affected customers
EDIT: Incident has been added to the Amazon page but needs more work.

---

Sometime in 2025 Amazon added an upgrade nag widget to Alexa for "Alexa+" that is impossible to turn off. In some cases the upgrade was automatic, and users had to opt-out
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Herbig |first=Daniel |date=19 Jan 2026 |title=Amazon makes Fire TV Blaster unusable |url=https://www.heise.de/en/news/Amazon-makes-Fire-TV-Blaster-unusable-11145570.html |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260120070820/https://www.heise.de/en/news/Amazon-makes-Fire-TV-Blaster-unusable-11145570.html |archive-date=20 Jan 2026}}</ref>
---
<ref>{{Cite web |title=Amazon is automatically upgrading Prime members to Alexa+. Here's how to opt out |url=https://www.12news.com/article/news/nation-world/amazon-automatic-upgrade-alexa-plus-how-to-opt-out/507-3105c319-0f52-421a-b741-9ad6919f22e5}}</ref>
|-
|[[Anker]]
|In Anker's Terms of Service for Solix solar generator product, under 19.3 Mandatory Updates:
In critical situations—such as addressing severe security vulnerabilities, complying with legal requirements, or ensuring compatibility with our service architecture—we reserve the right to issue mandatory Updates for both the firmware and the App. These essential updates may install automatically, or require immediate installation before further use, and you will not be permitted to opt out. If you fail to install such an update, certain device functionalities or access to the App may be limited or suspended to maintain the security and integrity of our service.
https://www.anker.com/ca/policies/terms-of-service
|
|-
|Apotheka
|Personal ID codes, purchase information and contact details of almost half of Estonian citizens and residents have been compromised in a mass data breach of the IT system operated by Allium UPI, a firm dealing with pharmacy and hospital products.
|[https://news.err.ee/1609302096/cybercriminals-steal-data-of-around-700-000-apotheka-pharmacy-customers]
|-
|[[Apple]]
|Apple changes Logic Pro and the Apple office suite into a subscription when it was either a one time purchase or free with the mac.
|
|-
|[[Apple]]
|$17 000 Apple Watch 18 karat gold edition out of support only 8 years after its introduction (not end of sale!). This means no software support, and, crucially, no repair or replacement parts. If the battery dies, the watch is but a paperweight.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple will no longer fix the $17,000 gold Apple Watch |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/10/2/23900158/apple-watch-edition-gold-2015-obsolete-unsupported-beyonce |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260222211749/https://www.theverge.com/2023/10/2/23900158/apple-watch-edition-gold-2015-obsolete-unsupported-beyonce |archive-date=22 Feb 2026|website=The Verge}}</ref>
|-
|[[Apple]], [[Beats]]
|No support for Powerbeats (4th generation) despite the headphones being under 5 years from when Apple last distributed the product for sale. The product is not listed as discontinued or vintage, and by Apple's own guidelines, should be eligible for replacement parts and repair. OEM replacement eartips cannot be purchased for any Beats earphones.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Obtaining service for your Apple product after an expired warranty |url=https://support.apple.com/en-us/102772 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260207094149/https://support.apple.com/en-us/102772 |archive-date=7 Feb 2026|access-date=2025-10-18}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Beats Repair and Service |url=https://support.apple.com/beats/repair |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260104000857/https://support.apple.com/beats/repair |archive-date=4 Jan 2026|access-date=2025-10-18}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Apple store search for eartips |url=https://www.apple.com/us/search/eartips?src=alp |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251028001314/https://www.apple.com/us/search/eartips?src=alp |archive-date=28 Oct 2025|access-date=2025-10-18}}</ref>
|-
|[[Apple]] iWork/Creator Studio
|The update that makes the iWork apps part of the new Apple Creator Studio subscription now adds tracking that is enabled by default and implemented as opt-out. The information about it is displayed in a first launch screen without any immediate way opt out, which qualifies as a dark pattern. Instead, the user has to go through a slightly convoluted path via the iPhone/iPad system settings app, and under the submenu "Apps" find each of the iWork apps and disable analytics there individually for each app. On Desktop, it is under a dedicated menu item under the "Pages"/"Numbers"/"Keynote" menu.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=New versions of Keynote, Numbers, and Pages collect telemetry by default on iOS, iPadOS, and macOS |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/ios/comments/1qq7q9m/new_versions_of_keynote_numbers_and_pages_collect/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260223032029/https://old.reddit.com/r/ios/comments/1qq7q9m/new_versions_of_keynote_numbers_and_pages_collect/ |archive-date=23 Feb 2026}}</ref>
|-
|[[archive.today]] / archive.ph (Web Archival Service)
|The website used [[JavaScript]] embedded into the website code to conduct a DDOS attack from users' devices against a blogger who has voiced criticism of the service in the past. This may make also cause legal issues for users.
NOTE: A similar technique has previously been used by Chinese search giant [[Baidu]], so we might want to create a category or tag for this type of thing

ADDENDUM: This page was reported to have been changing the information displayed in some archived screenshots, such as the author who published particular articles.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kirchner |first=Malte |last2=Kunz |first2=Dr. Christopher |date=10 Feb 2026 |title=Archive.today: Operator uses users for DDoS attack |url=https://www.heise.de/en/news/Archive-today-Operator-uses-users-for-DDoS-attack-11171455.html |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260212060655/https://www.heise.de/en/news/Archive-today-Operator-uses-users-for-DDoS-attack-11171455.html |archive-date=12 Feb 2026 |website=heise}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=LMG Clips |title=Wikipedia Banned 690,000 Archive Links - LMG Clips |url=https://youtu.be/rrnFUvFGf5A?si=32JRogu2ID9xykHd |access-date=2026-03-03 |website=LMG Clips on YouTube - Wikipedia Banned 690,000 Archive Links}}</ref>
|-
|'''[[Arduino]]''' (/ɑːrˈdwiːnoʊ/) is an Italian open-source hardware and software company owned by Qualcomm
|Arduino’s new terms of service worries hobbyists ahead of Qualcomm acquisition.
User shall not:

*translate, decompile or reverse-engineer the Platform, or engage in any other activity designed to identify the algorithms and logic of the Platform’s operation, unless expressly allowed by Arduino or by applicable license agreements …
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Harding |first=Scharon |date=2025-11-24 |title=Arduino’s new terms of service worries hobbyists ahead of Qualcomm acquisition |url=https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2025/11/arduinos-new-terms-of-service-worries-hobbyists-ahead-of-qualcomm-acquisition/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-03-14 |website=Ars Technica}}</ref>
|-
|Atlassian
|Users forced from on-premise to cloud only subscriptions
Edit: Page has been started [[Atlassian on premise to subscription|here]], more work, citation, and verification needs to be done.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ascend to the cloud: The next chapter for Atlassian and our customers |url=https://www.atlassian.com/blog/announcements/atlassian-ascend |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251018171903/https://www.atlassian.com/blog/announcements/atlassian-ascend |archive-date=18 Oct 2025}}</ref>
|-
|[[AutoAuth]]
|'''AutoAuth''' represents a significant shift toward "repair-by-subscription," where owning a vehicle no longer guarantees the right to maintain it. By placing a digital firewall between the owner and the car’s computer, AutoAuth forces independent shops and DIY enthusiasts to pay recurring access fees and register their personal data with a third-party gatekeeper just to perform basic maintenance, such as electronic parking brake retractions or oil life resets.
|
|-
|[[Axon]]
|Tazers sold with lease agreement that makes purchase effectively a subscription.
|[https://norwoodrecord.weebly.com/uploads/1/1/4/8/114832579/norwood_record_pages_1_to_12__4sep2025.pdf <nowiki>[69]</nowiki>]
|-
|[[Bayer]]
|[[wikipedia:Bayer|Wikipedia]]. See [[Monsanto]]
|
|-
|Benjamin
|Offerwall phone app that pays users money for various tasks- such as watching ads, or downloading and using software. After years of user satisfaction, in late 2025, the company first put a 2 month moratorium on users' ability to withdraw their earned money, then rolled out a massive wave of enshittification features, the most egregious of which, is a "withdrawl queue", where withdrawing your earnings is placed into a queue with no visible progress. No days, no queue tracker, many members have been waiting over 3 months for their withdrawls to be processed, on a feature listed as "instant withdrawl". Various policies also implemented that would completely void a user's earned money, mainly inactivity but also many baseless random user bans (many of which were reversed). There are hundreds of frustrated user testimonials on reddit (https://www.reddit.com/r/benjaminone/).
|
|-
|[[Best Buy]]
|In late 2025, BestBuy added [https://www.bestbuy.com/site/help-topics/pricing-message/pcmcat748302046647.c?id=pcmcat748302046647#:~:text=Our%20%E2%80%9CComparable%20Value%E2%80%9D%20(Comp,retailers%20or%20e%2Dcommerce%20companies. "Comparable Value"] as means of comparing values of products that is of equivalent value to other products sold by manufacturers, 1st party, or 3rd party vendors. Changes to their pricing model has made it to where it is more difficult to determine overall value of a product compared to MSRP.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Support |first=Best Buy |date=2025-01-24 |title=Pricing: Promotions |url=https://www.bestbuy.com/site/help-topics/pricing-message/pcmcat748302046647.c?id=pcmcat748302046647#:~:text=Our%20%E2%80%9CComparable%20Value%E2%80%9D%20(Comp,retailers%20or%20e%2Dcommerce%20companies. |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-24 |website=Best Buy}}</ref>
|-
|[[Bluesky]]
|Introduced ID check for Direct Messaging to comply with laws in certain states and abroad, despite both the company and community being against it.
|
|-
|[[Bosch]] and [[Shimano]]
|Electric bike companies including Bosch and Shimano limit consumer's abilities to access their e-bike electrical system such as when installing a new light or a phone charger. Special software only accessible to qualified bike shops is required to activate ports or accept new devices. Additional connectivity barriers exist such as difficult to acquire Bosch specific cables.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=RunBikeMike |first= |date=2024-01-01 |title=Installing an EBike Light To Run Off Your Battery / MagicShine ME2000 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AvG7Fpb1tzI&t=50s |access-date=2026-03-06 |website=YouTube}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Rossmann |first=Louis |date=15 Mar 2022 |title=Bosch takes the L on right to repair for ebikes |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j7e9hO5yMtk |access-date=6 Mar 2026 |website=YouTube}}</ref>
|-
|[[Carvana]]
|Saying cars that have been in accidents have not; Lies about inspection and does not replace brake pads even when worn down. Non-refundable $1,500 shipping fee. See [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r9yhOeTUEo4 Louis Rossmann's Video]
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|-
|Chuwi
|Misleading consumers by falsifying the specsheet of one of their latest laptops, and repeatedly threatened one of the online publications that wrote an article of their alleged misdeeds.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Leitner |first=Simon |date=2026-03-12 |title=CPU fraud, next round: Chuwi CoreBook Plus with supposed AMD Ryzen 5 7430U also affected |url=https://www.notebookcheck.net/CPU-fraud-next-round-Chuwi-CoreBook-Plus-with-supposed-AMD-Ryzen-5-7430U-also-affected.1248660.0.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/N7UmU |archive-date=2026-03-12 |access-date=2026-03-12 |website=Notebookcheck}}</ref>
|-
|[[Cloud-first]]
|The antithesis of [https://www.inkandswitch.com/essay/local-first local-first]. See "[https://karl-voit.at/cloud You Can't Control Your Data in the Cloud]"
|
|-
|[[Cloudary Holdings Limited / Webnovel]]
|Terms of service with binding Arbitration.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Webnovel ToS |url=https://www.webnovel.com/terms_of_service |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260101204816/https://www.webnovel.com/terms_of_service |archive-date=1 Jan 2026}}</ref>
|-
|[[Devolo]]
|Devolo switches off servers and removes their app from stores for their "Home Control" system, thus severely reducing the functionality of their devices (apparently Z-Wave-based).
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=IT-News für Profis |url=https://www.golem.de/news/weiterbetrieb-verursacht-weitere-kosten-devolo-macht-smart-home-system-zum-grossteil-unbrauchbar-2508-199409.html |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251210052941/https://www.golem.de/news/weiterbetrieb-verursacht-weitere-kosten-devolo-macht-smart-home-system-zum-grossteil-unbrauchbar-2508-199409.html |archive-date=10 Dec 2025|website=Golem |language=de}}</ref>
|-
|DeviantArt
|DeviantArt launched in 2000 and quickly became a household name among digital artists. [https://www.wix.com/press-room/home/post/wix-acquires-deviantart-pairing-wix-capabilities-with-global-creative-community But in 2017 WiX] bought the website and in 2022 had made all art on it's site liable to be training data by default. They then back peddled and then set all art to noai by default. Now they are moving basic functions to be behind their paywall. [https://www.deviantart.com/razorstargazer/journal/Deviantart-is-the-worst-website-ever-created-1309667089 Ones that were free.]
|[https://expertbeacon.com/the-ai-controversy-on-deviantart-how-a-creative-paradise-became-a-battleground/][https://www.wix.com/press-room/home/post/wix-acquires-deviantart-pairing-wix-capabilities-with-global-creative-community]
|-
|[[Dell]] and [[HP]]
|HP and Dell have disabled HEVC (H.264/H.265) hardware encoding and decoding support built into their laptops’ CPUs using both Intel and AMD processors.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Harding |first=Scharon |date=2025-11-21 |title=HP and Dell disable HEVC support built into their laptops’ CPUs |url=https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2025/11/hp-and-dell-disable-hevc-support-built-into-their-laptops-cpus/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251121083438/https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2025/11/hp-and-dell-disable-hevc-support-built-into-their-laptops-cpus/ |archive-date=2025-11-21 |access-date=2025-11-21 |website=Ars Technica}}</ref>
|-
|DotPe cyber-sec negligence
|In 2024, an Indian company that provides digital services to food-chains got trivially hacked/cracked, allowing anyone to get customer data and company revenue-stats across many countries
|<ref>https://web.archive.org/web/20240923081639/https://peabee.substack.com/p/whats-inside-the-qr-code-menu-at</ref>
|-
|E621
|Terms of service that require agreement to forced arbitration to use the website.
|<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-10-02 |title=E621 |url=https://e621.net/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260128164339/https://e621.net/ |archive-date=28 Jan 2026|website=E621}}</ref>
|-
|[[EcoVac]]
|Vacuum cleaner robots produced by company 'EcoVac' were found vulnerable to hacking over bluetooth allowing for remote control and access to camera feed. Security researcher Dennis Giese notified the company in December of 2023. In August of 2024, the issue was described by the company as "extremely rare in typical user environments and require specialized hacking tools and physical access to the device."
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Fell |first=Julian |date=2024-10-04 |title=We hacked a robot vacuum — and could watch live through its camera - ABC News |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-10-04/robot-vacuum-hacked-photos-camera-audio/104414020 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251128025250/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-10-04/robot-vacuum-hacked-photos-camera-audio/104414020 |archive-date=28 Nov 2025|access-date=2025-09-10 |website=ABC News}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Franceschi-Bicchierai |first=Lorenzo |date=2024-08-09 |title=Ecovacs home robots can be hacked to spy on their owners, researchers say {{!}} TechCrunch |url=https://techcrunch.com/2024/08/09/ecovacs-home-robots-can-be-hacked-to-spy-on-their-owners-researchers-say/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260222212044/https://techcrunch.com/2024/08/09/ecovacs-home-robots-can-be-hacked-to-spy-on-their-owners-researchers-say/ |archive-date=2026-02-22 |access-date=10 Aug 2024}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Franceschi-Bicchierai |first=Lorenzo |date=2024-08-15 |title=Lorenzo Franceschi-Bicchierai on X: "Finally, Ecovacs responds to the researchers' findings, saying it won't fix the bugs. |url=https://x.com/lorenzofb/status/1823774980460388675 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20241108194816/https://x.com/lorenzofb/status/1823774980460388675 |archive-date=8 Nov 2024}}</ref>
|-
|[[Elegoo Centauri Carbon|Elegoo]]
|The Elegoo Centauri Carbon 3d printer has been proven to use open source Klipper software which requires them to publish their changes to the code.
|<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-08-28 |title=PSA: Elegoo Centauri Carbon & GPL Compliance |url=https://freethecode.lol/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251206142736/https://freethecode.lol/ |archive-date=6 Dec 2025|access-date=2025-08-28 |website=PSA: Elegoo Centauri Carbon & GPL Compliance}}</ref>
|-
|Foxit Reader
|Updater uses dark pattern to trick unsuspecting users into installing a trial version of their paid product. The checkbox is enabled again by default with each update in the hope that the user misses it by accident at some point.
|
|-
|[[Gaggia]]
|Between 2015 to 2019, the redesigned Gaggia Classic removed the traditional three-way solenoid valve. The valve was restored in the 2019 Gaggia Classic Pro after criticism and backlash from the espresso enthusiast community.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Waddell |first=Kelsey |date=2023-03-23 |title=Gaggia Classic vs Pro: A Closer Look at the Differences |url=https://www.roastycoffee.com/gaggia-classic-vs-pro/ |website=Roasty Coffee}}</ref>
|-
|[[Google Chromecast]]
|Chromecast has transitioned from a standalone product to one that [[Forced_app_download|requires the Google Home app]] for setup and control. This change prevents customers who either don't own a smartphone or prefer not to use the app from accessing their Chromecast devices. As a result, certain televisions—such as the Caixon EC43S1UA, which relied on built-in Chromecast functionality—can no longer be used as intended. This effectively removes a key feature from a product that was already purchased, diminishing its value or rendering it unusable altogether.
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|-
|Google TLS Changes
|Google's new requirements to certificate authorities require separate authority/signing chains to be used to issue Server Authentication and Client Authentication certificates. Therefore, starting 11 February 2026, Let's Encrypt will no longer include the Client Authentication EKU on default certificates
|
|-
|[[Google]]
|Google apparently plans to reduce the interval of publishing source code of security patches they consider non-critical. This is another blow to the custom ROM community.
Right now we don't have these incidents organised chronologically, maybe we should have a table with a timeline of measures Google takes to enshittify and close down Android (more APIs moved to Play Services, Developer verification, withholding AOSP device trees for Pixel devices to mess with Graphene OS, now delayed source code disclosure). What's worst, they always cite safety as a reason.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Exclusive: Google wants to make Android phones safer by switching to ‘risk-based’ security updates |url=https://www.androidauthority.com/android-risk-based-security-updates-3597466/ |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260107025310/https://www.androidauthority.com/android-risk-based-security-updates-3597466/ |archive-date=7 Jan 2026 |website=Android Authority}}</ref>
|-
|Google Maps
|Google restricts data visible in Google Maps for users who are not signed in with an account (see [[Forced account]]). Reviews and photos are no longer visible without login. This also forces users to agree to Google's TOS and logs them into all other Google services, such as YouTube or Google Search so that now all their data in those other services is associated with their accounts. This also raises concerns that other services such as YouTube might follow.
|<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 Feb 2026 |title=Google Maps now forces you to sign-in |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/GoogleMaps/comments/1r4iauf/google_maps_now_forces_you_to_signin/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260223032117/https://old.reddit.com/r/GoogleMaps/comments/1r4iauf/google_maps_now_forces_you_to_signin/ |archive-date=23 Feb 2026 |website=Reddit}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Feb 2026 |title=Can't view images without logging in? |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/GoogleMaps/comments/1r74v0f/cant_view_images_without_logging_in/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260223032213/https://old.reddit.com/r/GoogleMaps/comments/1r74v0f/cant_view_images_without_logging_in/ |archive-date=23 Feb 2026 |website=Reddit}}</ref>
|-
|[[Google]], [[Mozilla]], [[Apple]], [[Microsoft]], but largely Google-led
|Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Safari are removing XSLT 1.0 support, which could break critical parts of government's websites worldwide<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dimant |first=Dimitrii "Mamut" |date=2025-08-10 |title=XSLT removal will break multiple government and regulatory sites across the world #11582 |url=https://github.com/whatwg/html/issues/11582 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260211221059/https://github.com/whatwg/html/issues/11582 |archive-date=11 Feb 2026|access-date=2025-10-25 |website=Github (specifically the Web Hypertext Application Technology Working Group's HTML standards repo, controlled by Mozilla, Google, Microsoft and Apple)}}</ref>. There are valid security reasons for them to want to stop supporting this 1999-era standard, however they have had 26+ years to update to a newer standard (such as the 2017-era 3.1 standard, which is backwards compatible and would allow these sites to continue to work<ref>{{Cite web |date=2017-03-21 |title="XML Path Language (XPath) 3.1: W3C Recommendation 21 March 2017" |url=https://www.w3.org/TR/xpath-31/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260116015839/https://www.w3.org/TR/xpath-31/ |archive-date=16 Jan 2026|website=W3C}}</ref>). The single unpaid developer maintaining these libraries has more or less retired after getting flooded with impossible to satisfy security requests from these companies<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wellnhoffer |first=Nick |date=2025-05-08 |title=Triaging security issues reported by third parties |url=https://gitlab.gnome.org/GNOME/libxml2/-/issues/913 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260131231248/https://gitlab.gnome.org/GNOME/libxml2/-/issues/913 |archive-date=31 Jan 2026|access-date=2025-10-25 |website=gitlab.gnome.org}}</ref>. There is an existing project called XRUST to implement the 3.1 standard<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-05-09 |title=XRust: XPath, XQuery, and XSLT for Rust |url=https://gitlab.gnome.org/World/Rust/markup-rs/xrust |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260204085435/https://gitlab.gnome.org/World/Rust/markup-rs/xrust |archive-date=4 Feb 2026|access-date=2025-10-14 |website=gitlab.gnome.org}}</ref>, which is 2/3rds of the way through supporting all the features of 1.0 - the XSLT part fully supports all the 1.0 features at this point. XSLT is part of the W3C Consortium's open web standards for formatting and presenting XML, and is also how RSS works, so RSS feeds would stop working as well, disrupting the livelihoods of podcasters<ref>{{Cite web |last=Rijo |first=Luis |date=2025-08-20 |title=Google targets RSS feeds in new XSLT removal proposal |url=https://ppc.land/google-targets-rss-feeds-in-new-xslt-removal-proposal/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260222212228/https://ppc.land/google-targets-rss-feeds-in-new-xslt-removal-proposal/ |archive-date=22 Feb 2026|access-date=2025-10-14 |website=PPC-Land}}</ref>. This has led to questions of who owns the web - the public (including the government) who paid for and laid down the highways / web infrastructure - or a handful of large corporations? <ref>{{Cite web |last=Branscombe |first=Mary |date=2025-09-01 |title=XSLT Debate Leads to Bigger Questions of Web Governance |url=https://thenewstack.io/xslt-debate-leads-to-bigger-questions-of-web-governance/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260131231310/https://thenewstack.io/xslt-debate-leads-to-bigger-questions-of-web-governance/ |archive-date=31 Jan 2026|access-date=2025-10-14 |website=The New Stack}}</ref>
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|-
|[[GoPro]] Hero 12
|GoPro Hero 12 requires the GoPro app to be installed before you can use the camera. Many currently used devices are not compatible with the app, therefore making use of the camera difficult to impossible for new owners or upon camera factory reset. There's also the question of what data the app collects and whether it requires login and or camera activation.
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|-
|[[Hikvision]]
|Chinese surveillance camera manufacturer complicit in Uighur genocide which used to advertise recognition of praying and ramadan fasting among its selling points. Similarly to [[Flock license plate readers|Flock]], they are in use world wide and likely feed directly into the Chinese government's surveillance infrastructure and could conceivably be used to find dissidents world-wide. Recently, [https://netzpolitik.org/2025/hikvision-hersteller-der-hamburger-ki-ueberwachungskameras-ist-fuer-menschenrechtsverletzungen-bekannt/ the city of Hamburg has installed them] ([https://netzpolitik-org.translate.goog/2025/hikvision-hersteller-der-hamburger-ki-ueberwachungskameras-ist-fuer-menschenrechtsverletzungen-bekannt/?_x_tr_sl=auto&_x_tr_tl=en&_x_tr_hl=de&_x_tr_pto=wapp Google Translate Version in English]).
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|-
|[[Internet radios]]
|I'd like a page where I can share information about internet radios "openness." Few allow you to enter a radio station's URL (which I would consider the least intrusive option). Most depend on third-party websites or apps; [https://www.sangean.com/uk/blog/149 some of which have already bricked devices].
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|-
|[[IPVideo Corporation]] (owned by [[Motorola]])
|Manufacturer of surveillance hardware. The notable example that brought them to my attention is the Halo 3C/3C-PC Smart Sensor, which is deployed in places such as school bathrooms and subsidized/social housing. This system has a variety of sensors on it, from air quality ones (for detecting smoking/vape usage) all the way to microphones (ostensibly for audio analysis to identify aggression and gunshots, without the capability to stream the audio elsewhere, but this not a limitation built into the hardware and could be changed by a firmware update).
|<ref>{{Cite_web |last=Reynaldo |last2=nyx |name-list-style=amp |date=2025-10-10 |title=DEF CON 33 - Unmasking the Snitch Puck: IoT surveillance tech in the school bathroom |url=https://youtu.be/WCnojaEpF2I |publisher=DEF CON |url-status=live |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=WCnojaEpF2I |archive-date=16 Feb 2026}}</ref><ref>{{Cite_web |access-date=2025-10-26 |url=https://www.pelco.com/sensors |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250922000017/https://www.pelco.com/sensors |archive-date=2025-09-22 |title=HALO Smart Sensor Suite |website=PELCO}}</ref>
|-
|[[iRacing]]
|iRacing is a racing game that's subscription-based, requiring payment just to play the actual game in either online or offline mode.
|
|-
|[[itch.io]], [[Night School Studios]], [[Netflix]]
|In September 2024, users who purchased the game Oxenfree on itch.io were warned that the game was going to be pulled from the platform on October 1st. Consumers would not be able to download the installers after this date, so they would lose access unless they had them backed up. Users speculated that Netflix, the parent company of the development studio, had ordered the move; however, no response from Netflix or the developers was ever published. This is particularly notable because it is against itch.io's terms of service: "Users shall retain a license to this content even after the content is removed from the Service."
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=itch corp |date=15 Apr 2023 |title=itch.io Terms of Service |url=https://itch.io/docs/legal/terms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240907004719/https://itch.io/docs/legal/terms |archive-date=7 Sep 2024 |access-date=27 Jun 2025 |website=itch.io}}</ref> <ref>{{Cite web |last=ShawnS |date=31 Jan 2025 |title=OXENFREE |url=https://delistedgames.com/oxenfree/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250321070400/https://delistedgames.com/oxenfree/ |archive-date=21 Mar 2025 |access-date=27 Jun 2025 |website=Delisted Games}}</ref> <ref>{{Cite web |last=Colp |first=Tyler |date=9 Sep 2024 |title=Another reminder that your digital library isn't forever: Oxenfree will be completely removed from Itch.io next month |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/games/adventure/another-reminder-that-your-digital-library-isn-t-forever-oxenfree-will-be-completely-removed-from-itch-io-next-month/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250523111125/https://www.pcgamer.com/games/adventure/another-reminder-that-your-digital-library-isn-t-forever-oxenfree-will-be-completely-removed-from-itch-io-next-month/ |archive-date=23 May 2025 |access-date=27 Jun 2025 |website=PC Gamer}}</ref>
|-
|[[The Japan Times|Japan Times, The]]
|The Japan Times uses the DMCA to take down an open source study resource for the Genki and Quartet workbooks.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Clydesdale |first=Seth |date=2025-09-11 |title=Important Information Regarding Genki and Quartet Study Resources |url=https://ko-fi.com/post/Important-Information-Regarding-Genki-and-Quartet-D1D21L4B1S |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251116072121/https://ko-fi.com/post/Important-Information-Regarding-Genki-and-Quartet-D1D21L4B1S |archive-date=16 Nov 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Update Regarding Genki and Quartet Study Resources DMCA Situation |url=https://ko-fi.com/post/Update-Regarding-Genki-and-Quartet-Study-Resources-Y8Y21M1F5E |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251115073152/https://ko-fi.com/post/Update-Regarding-Genki-and-Quartet-Study-Resources-Y8Y21M1F5E |archive-date=15 Nov 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-10-03 |title=All Exercises for Genki/Quartet Study Resources Have Been Removed |url=https://ko-fi.com/post/All-Exercises-for-GenkiQuartet-Study-Resources-Wi-R6R81M8LLN |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251113045244/https://ko-fi.com/post/All-Exercises-for-GenkiQuartet-Study-Resources-Wi-R6R81M8LLN |archive-date=13 Nov 2025}}</ref>
|-
|[[KOSA]]
|KOSA claims to make kids safer, but it’s really a dangerous censorship bill that would give the U.S. government unprecedented control over the internet. This would put youth in danger by preventing them from accessing potentially life-saving resources.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Fight for the Future |first= |date=2026-01-24 |title=Reject online censorship. Tell lawmakers to oppose KOSA! |url=https://www.stopkosa.com/ |url-status=live |archive-url= |archive-date= |access-date=2026-01-24 |website=Stop KOSA}}</ref><ref>https://web.archive.org/web/20250228145348/https://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/houston-texas/education/article/Katy-ISD-blocks-LGBTQ-resources-suicide-16647274.php</ref>
|-
|[[LBRY]] Foundation, [[Odysee]]
|Community first decentralization & Odysee's plan to enable censorship by switching away from the opensource LBRY network.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=The LBRY Foundation |url=https://lbry.org/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260211161516/https://lbry.org/ |archive-date=11 Feb 2026|access-date=2025-08-08 |quote=The LBRY community invites everyone to join us in building a more free and open way to share content and information online.}}</ref><ref name=":2">{{Cite news |last=Watson |first=RT |date=6 Jun 2024 |title=Decentralized YouTube alternative Odysee acquired by Forward Research despite content concerns |url=https://www.theblock.co/post/298888/decentralized-youtube-alternative-odysee-acquired-by-forward-research-despite-content-concerns |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251127094918/https://www.theblock.co/post/298888/decentralized-youtube-alternative-odysee-acquired-by-forward-research-despite-content-concerns |archive-date=27 Nov 2025|access-date=16 Aug 2025 |work=The Block}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last=Li |first=Jun |last2=Grintsvayg |first2=Alex |last3=Kauffman |first3=Jeremy |last4=Fleming |first4=Charles |date=2020 |title=LBRY: A Blockchain-Based Decentralized Digital Content Marketplace |url=https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/9126007 |journal=2020 IEEE International Conference on Decentralized Applications and Infrastructures (DAPPS) |location=Oxford, UK |publisher=IEEE |doi=10.1109/DAPPS49028.2020.00005 |isbn=978-1-7281-6978-1 |via=IEEE Xplore |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250825221749/https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/9126007/ |archive-date=25 Aug 2025}}</ref>
|-
|[[LG]]
|LG discontinued its LG Bluetooth Remote app (including plugins such as "btc4") making it non-public on the Play Store and making Bluetooth controllable devices (like for example the CM2630B) half as useful, without even publishing neither the protocol used to control such devices nor the source code of the app.
|
|-
|[[Lowe's]]
|Lowe's uses flock cameras and other AI powered cameras to collect data and build a profile on "prospective, current, or former Lowe's customers". Their cameras point away from their stores.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Koebler |first=Jason |date=6 Aug 2025 |title=Home Depot and Lowe's Share Data From Hundreds of AI Cameras With Cops |url=https://www.404media.co/home-depot-and-lowes-share-data-from-hundreds-of-ai-cameras-with-cops/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260216173226/https://www.404media.co/home-depot-and-lowes-share-data-from-hundreds-of-ai-cameras-with-cops/ |archive-date=16 Feb 2026|access-date=15 Sep 2025 |website=404 Media}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=26 Aug 2025 |title=Lowe’s U.S. Privacy Statement |url=https://www.lowes.com/l/about/privacy-and-security-statement |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251228013530/https://www.lowes.com/l/about/privacy-and-security-statement |archive-date=28 Dec 2025|access-date=15 Sep 2025 |website=Lowe's}}</ref>
|-
|[[McDonald's]]/Taylor
|McDonald's US mandates which ice cream machine has to be used by franchise licensees. The company that makes these machines uses deliberately obfuscated error codes to force restaurant owners to use their expensive tech service to fix them and reset the machines. The company makes more money from these "repairs" support than with actual sales. Not strictly end consumer, but the pattern warrants documenting imo.
A similar problem exists with Doremi (Dolby) cinema projectors where their DRM leads to a ridiculous number of actions breaking the so-called "marriage" (projector-media block unity), requiring a costly technician to reset it. This one needs sources researched, though, as I don't have one on hand.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Why McDonald's Ice Cream Machines Are Always Broken and How To Fix Them |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2uCpY3tFTIA |url-status=live |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=2uCpY3tFTIA |archive-date=22 Feb 2026}}</ref>
|-
|Microsoft
|Microsoft's Android keyboard app SwiftKey set to make it impossible to backup user data without a Microsoft Account, backups must be stored in Microsoft cloud
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Roth |first=Emma |date=18 Mar 2026 |title=SwiftKey will soon require a Microsoft account to save your typing info. |url=https://www.theverge.com/tech/896859/swiftkey-will-soon-require-a-microsoft-account-to-save-your-typing-info}}</ref>
|-
|[[Minut]]
|Minute sells sensors and alarms. They released an alarm (Point) on kickstarter that long after release got a firmware update adding forced subscription if more than one person wanted to use the alarm.
|<ref>https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/minut/pointthe-friendly-home-alarm</ref>
<ref>https://www.minut.com/</ref>
|-
|[[Mitsubishi Motors]]
|Mitsubishi Motors has a rich history of consumer protection, compliance issues and privacy breaches. These include concealing safety defects, falsifying fuel economy data, and being fined for false advertising. Following the trend of subscription services for the automotive industry, Mitsubishi paywalls built-in features including remote start, SOS, collision detection, and car tracking through its app Mitsubishi Connect subscription service.
|[https://www.autoevolution.com/news/mitsubishi-fined-42-million-by-japans-consumer-affairs-agency-115026.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com] [https://leakd.com/leaks/mitsubishi-motors-vietnam-customer-data-breached/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mitsubishi_Motors?utm_source=chatgpt.com] [https://violationtracker.goodjobsfirst.org/?order=pen_year&parent=mitsubishi-motors&sort=&utm_source=chatgpt.com][https://www.mitsubishi-motors.com/en/newsroom/newsrelease/2017/20171129_3.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com]
|-
|Multiple
|Several legal cases involving forced arbitration in some manner; many of these relate to other anticonsumer practices, such as when Wells Fargo illegally opened up ~3.5M fake checking and credit accounts in customers' names. Highly advised to deeply scrub for supplementary sources.
|<ref>{{Cite web |date=Apr 16, 2019 |title=Fact Sheet: Cases Tossed Out of Court Because of Forced Arbitration Causes and Class Action Bans |url=https://www.centerjd.org/content/fact-sheet-cases-tossed-out-court-because-forced-arbitration-causes-and-class-action-bans#_ftn1 |access-date=Feb 12, 2026 |website=Center for Justice & Democracy at New York Law School |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251013145327/https://centerjd.org/content/fact-sheet-cases-tossed-out-court-because-forced-arbitration-causes-and-class-action-bans |archive-date=13 Oct 2025}}</ref>
|-
|MuseGroup (MuseSounds)
|Releasing more and more subscription sound packs while previously released one-time purchase sound packs are full of bugs/issues and have gone without updates for sometimes over a year. They have also increased the price of one-time purchase packs by about 500% while still providing no additional or improved functionality.
They also added unsolicited popups advertising their paid sound packs at startup of the open source MuseScore application, as well as buttons and commands for their cloud service to the home screen, which cannot be disabled. They previously ran into controversy when changing the privacy policy of Audacity and tried to add tracking. The closed-source MuseHub application (which is required to download the free sound packs) connects to tracking services with neither a real opt-in nor an opt-out option. Newer versions of MuseHub now seem to [[Forced account|require an account]] to download free sound packs and sound effects, which previously was not the case. Muse Hub starts at every system launch by default and stays active in the background despite this not being required for its functionality. They also added proprietary parts to MuseScore (like the MuseSample), which is kept closed source. They also bought StaffPad and seem to have quietly ceased its development without publishing any statements.
|
|-
|[[Navdy]], [[Harman International]]
|Device discontinued and no updates, device can be used offline for 1 year until it stops working.
https://www.reddit.com/r/navdy/
|
|-
|[[Netgear]] (internet networking equipment)
|Almost every Netgear internet router requires the creation of a new account to function as a router (see [[Forced account]]), where the TOS includes an agreement to binding arbitration. Most if not all devices are locked into proprietary firmware with no option to change. Some automatic updates have reportedly cause loss of performance with option to revert to a previous version, "bricking" the device in some cases.
Engages in anti-consumer practices, requiring a subscription for basic WiFi-router features such as parental controls. According to a blogpost by a senior employee, grew from "45% in 2016 to over 60% in 2019" of the US consumer router market. In 2025, Netgear is "being sued by TP-Link for a 'Smear Campaign' to Advance US Router Ban [of it's competitor TP-Link].
|[https://www.netgear.com/about/terms-and-conditions/ <nowiki>[62]</nowiki>]
[https://kb.netgear.com/000062104/What-subscription-plans-are-available-for-NETGEAR-Smart-Parental-Controls <nowiki>[63]</nowiki>]
[https://www.netgear.com/hub/author/abhorkar/ <nowiki>[64]</nowiki>]
[https://www.pcmag.com/news/tp-link-accuses-netgear-of-smear-campaign-to-advance-us-router-ban?test_uuid=04IpBmWGZleS0I0J3epvMrC&test_variant=B <nowiki>[65]</nowiki>]
|-
|[https://www.nexigroup.com/ Nexi S.p.A.]
|Nexi is a payment services provider based in Italy, which has been used by the [https://fsfe.org/ Free Software Foundation Europe] (FSFE) for ~ 15 years. They have allegedly been asking FSFE for personal information of FSFE executives and supporters and have recently cancelled their contract with FSFE.
|<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-03-16 |title=450 FSFE supporters affected: Payment provider Nexi cancelled us |url=https://fsfe.org/news/2026/news-20260316-01.en.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260317162959/https://fsfe.org/news/2026/news-20260316-01.en.html |archive-date=2026-03-17 |access-date=2026-03-17 |website=FSFE - Free Software Foundation Europe}}</ref>
|-
|[[Nothing]]
|Nothing brings home-screen ads (can be disabled manually) and [[bloatware]] to its lower end models despite previously boasting about being bloatware free
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Floemer |first=Andreas |date=2025-10-27 |title=Phone 3a: NothingOS 4.0 brings optional ads to the lock screen |url=https://www.heise.de/en/news/Phone-3a-NothingOS-4-0-brings-optional-ads-to-the-lock-screen-10904033.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260222212507/https://www.heise.de/en/news/Phone-3a-NothingOS-4-0-brings-optional-ads-to-the-lock-screen-10904033.html |archive-date=22 Feb 2026|access-date=2025-10-27 |website=Heise Online}}</ref>
|-
|Odido Netherlands B.V.
|Odido is an internet service provider in the Netherlands with a 10-15% market share [[https://www.acm.nl/nl/publicaties/acm-telecommonitor-derde-kwartaal-2025 79]]. On the 3rd of March 2026 a user reported that his Odido Zyxel EX5601-T1 router was (illegally) sending analytics data to a Turkish AI-company [[https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/odido-router-verzamelt-analytics-van-je-huishouden-sipke-mellema-0uoie/ 80]]. The user reported on the 8th of March 2026 that the router silently stopped sending this data with no formal mention/patch from Odido. The user reported on the poor security of the router and that the analytics data contained the unencrypted names of local networks, the names of devices connected to these networks, and MAC-addresses. The poor security of Odido's routers follows a massive data leak of 6.2 million customers' full legal names, phone numbers, emails, bank account numbers, passport numbers and more [[https://tweakers.net/nieuws/244656/odido-waarschuwt-voor-datalek-miljoenen-klantgegevens-gestolen-bij-cyberaanval.html 81]].
|[[https://www.acm.nl/nl/publicaties/acm-telecommonitor-derde-kwartaal-2025 79]] [[https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/odido-router-verzamelt-analytics-van-je-huishouden-sipke-mellema-0uoie/ 80]] [[https://tweakers.net/nieuws/244656/odido-waarschuwt-voor-datalek-miljoenen-klantgegevens-gestolen-bij-cyberaanval.html 81]]
(I do not know how to add these to the list)
|-
|[[OICA]] (European automotive lobby organisation)
|The OICA recently pushed for the right to emit sounds from quiet electric cars to make them as loud as conventional cars with combustion engine and against stricter noise regulation in cities. The fake engine noises in question are specifically not for safety purposes, but for emotional effect for the driver. However, instead of playing the noises only inside for just the driver to hear, the noise is to be played on speakers on the exterior, thus affecting the general public. Noise pollution has long been known to have adverse health effects. ''[NOTE: Similar to environmental aspects, greenwashing etc., we will have to find a good angle for how this fits the wiki. I would say it does match the general theme of manufacturers deliberately making their products worse for minor financial gain and lobbies pushing against things that are in public interest.]''
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Krempl |first=Stefan |date=2026-01-07 |title=Sound Dictatorship vs. Quiet: The Battle for E-Car Roar |url=https://www.heise.de/en/news/Sound-Dictatorship-vs-Quiet-The-Battle-for-E-Car-Roar-11133630.html |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260108165124/https://www.heise.de/en/news/Sound-Dictatorship-vs-Quiet-The-Battle-for-E-Car-Roar-11133630.html |archive-date=8 Jan 2026|access-date=2026-01-08 |website=Heise Online}}</ref>
|-
|[[Oracle]]
|Similarly to [[Tencent]], this corp is behind many other companies, so it has a lot of power over users. Also, their CEO is very petty about letting go the [[JavaScript]] trademark<ref>https://deno.com/blog/javascript-tm-gofundme</ref>
|
|-
|[[Persona]] (Age verification service)
|Used by Discord to do age verification using facial 3d scans, which are transmitted to Persona servers. It has been revealed that the company has ties to Palantir and Peter Thiel.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Carpenter |first=Lincoln |date=13 Feb 2026 |title=Oh, good: Discord's age verification rollout has ties to Palantir co-founder and panopticon architect Peter Thiel |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/software/platforms/oh-good-discords-age-verification-rollout-has-ties-to-palantir-co-founder-and-panopticon-architect-peter-thiel/ |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260221224755/https://www.pcgamer.com/software/platforms/oh-good-discords-age-verification-rollout-has-ties-to-palantir-co-founder-and-panopticon-architect-peter-thiel/ |archive-date=21 Feb 2026 |website=PCGamer}}</ref>
|-
|[[Proton]]
|Proton helped FBI unmask anonymous "Stop Cop City" protestor
|<ref>https://www.404media.co/proton-mail-helped-fbi-unmask-anonymous-stop-cop-city-protestor/</ref>
|-
|[https://www.skystone.games/ Skystone Games]
|Boundary, a multiplayer online-only first-person shooter, got shut down just a year after its release by Skystone games, and its publishing rights relinquished, citing "ongoing delays and a lack of updates from the developer". Studio Surgical Scalpels (the developer) stated that the publisher decissions were "extremely sudden and unreasonable", and attempted to "regain the rights to boundary". The game has been offline for more than a year at the time of writing, and no refunds or communications to the userbase has been made by Skystone Games.
|<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-06-19 |title=Boundary - End of service notice |url=https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1364020/view/4209257868262605607?l=english |url-status=live |access-date=2025-07-07 |website=Steam |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251021143111/https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1364020/view/4209257868262605607?l=english |archive-date=21 Oct 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-06-30 |title=Boundary Shut Down: Who's to Blame? |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kr8IhV1fovE |url-status=live |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=Kr8IhV1fovE |archive-date=16 Feb 2026}}</ref>
|-
|[[Sony]], Sony Online Entertainment/[[Daybreak Game Company]]
|Selling off SOE to the investment firm Columbus Nova, all games published by SOE were delisted without prior notice to consumers or developers, and licenses were revoked as well.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=S |first=Shawn |date=Jun 10, 2016 |title=Akimi Village |url=https://delistedgames.com/akimi-village/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251127030103/https://delistedgames.com/akimi-village/ |archive-date=27 Nov 2025|website=Delisted Games}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Weber |first=Rachel |date=Feb 2, 2015 |title=SOE acquired, becomes Daybreak Game Company |url=https://www.gamesindustry.biz/soe-acquired-becomes-daybreak-game-company |work=GamesIndustry.biz |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260204235742/https://www.gamesindustry.biz/soe-acquired-becomes-daybreak-game-company |archive-date=4 Feb 2026}}</ref>
|-
|[[Superbox]]
|Android TV box manufacturer Superbox remotely locks consumers' devices if they were sold below the manufacturer's minimum specified prices and asks consumers to contact the retailer when they complain.
They are not the first to do something like this. [[Deye]] locked down inverters in the US that they suspected might be gray imports.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=You'll Own Nothing and Be Happy |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5I5-rAyFQrk |website=YouTube |type=Video |url-status=live |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=5I5-rAyFQrk |archive-date=16 Feb 2026}}</ref>
|-
|[https://superhivemarket.com/ SuperHiveMarket]
|Customers, when purchasing executable code ("add-ons") were promised lifetime updates. Creators are getting announcements that updates are now limited to one year, even on products previously purchased with lifetime updates.
|https://youtu.be/042ltF-6a-w
|-
|[[Twitch]]
|Twitch has recently partnered with Persona to verify the ages of new affiliates before first payouts.
|
|-
|[[UP3]] By [[Jawbone]]
|Approximately 2011, Pioneering startup company from San Francisco, had revolutionary fitness trackers. In 2017 with no notice to customers they stole personal data and shut down app which in turn, bricked devices. Highly likely went bankrupt and sold to sister company to manipulate customer services and rights. Now owned by Aliph brands.
|
|-
|[[Vive]]
|In 2022, Vive discontinued the original Vive Facial Tracker module a year after the original release, then released an updated model with proprietary firmware that blocked use on other 3rd party VR headset, while only allowing the new model to work with their new locked-down headset. The 2021 version of the face tracker's long term support was seemingly cut overnight without any software updates since 2021.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Vive Team |date=2022-08-07 |title=VIVE Focus 3 gets Facial Tracker, and Eye Tracker |url=https://blog.vive.com/us/vive-focus-3-gets-facial-tracker-and-eye-tracker/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250619155201/https://blog.vive.com/us/vive-focus-3-gets-facial-tracker-and-eye-tracker/ |archive-date=2025-06-19 |access-date=2025-09-21 |website=Vive Blog}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=StateKi |date=2023-10-10 |title=Post by StatekTi on X |url=https://x.com/StatekTi/status/1733954156379963393 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.ph/DiYbF |archive-date=9 Jan 2026 |access-date=2025-11-21 |website=X (Formerly Twitter)}}</ref>
|-
|[[WHMCS]]
|Discontinuation of support and updates for WHMCS legacy “Owned” licenses, forcing users who want ongoing updates or technical support to switch to subscription licensing and pay recurring fees rather than continue with the original owned model. This change affects all holders of legacy owned licenses and alters the long-term terms under which those licenses were originally sold
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=WHMCS Knowledgebase |url=https://www.whmcs.com/members/index.php/knowledgebase/70/Support-and-Updates-Expiration.html |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251211021038/https://www.whmcs.com/members/index.php/knowledgebase/70/Support-and-Updates-Expiration.html |archive-date=11 Dec 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Important pricing changes to your WHMCS owned license Mailer |url=https://www.whmcs.com/members/mailings/?k=price21-emailo |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260215233549/https://www.whmcs.com/members/mailings/?k=price21-emailo |archive-date=15 Feb 2026}}</ref>
|-
|Wheatstone Corporation
|Wheatstone Corporation are a manufacturer of professional broadcast equipment, mainly audio consoles and interfaces that utilise their proprietary Wheatnet audio over IP protocol.
Wheatstone restricts access to firmware updates, software configuration tools and software. You must open a support ticked in order for them to send you a download link to these software tools, they make it very difficult to access software required to make their hardware audio interfaces work, even stating they want proof of purchase (not just a licence key) before they will even give you the download link. Managing licences is also non-existent and you will need to contact support, and as such a fee is imposed.
|
|-
|[[Wireless Power Consortium]]
|After monopolizing wireless charging market Qi turned from an open standard into a proprietary.
Version 1.3 introduced "secure authentication between the transmitter and the receiver", i.e. in order to operate every charger must include an expensive proprietary chip licensed only to certified members. This results in increased development and manufacturing costs directly passed onto consumer. Version 2.2, unlike previous versions, "is available for WPC Members only".
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Qi Certification Is Changing and We've Got You Covered |url=https://www.nxp.com/company/about-nxp/smarter-world-blog/BL-QI-CERTIFICATION-IS-CHANGING |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251104012700/https://www.nxp.com/company/about-nxp/smarter-world-blog/BL-QI-CERTIFICATION-IS-CHANGING |archive-date=4 Nov 2025|website=NXP Semiconductors}}</ref>
<ref>{{Cite web |title=Download the Qi Specifications |url=https://www.wirelesspowerconsortium.com/knowledge-base/specifications/download-the-qi-specifications/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251104094044/https://www.wirelesspowerconsortium.com/knowledge-base/specifications/download-the-qi-specifications/ |archive-date=4 Nov 2025|website=Wireless Power Consortium}}</ref>
|-
|Wolfgang Puck Bread Makers
|Some of the bread makers have anti repair screws in them to prevent people from repairing them themselves. Needs more citations.
|
|-
|[[World Orb]]
|World Network (Sam Altman/Open AI) scheme to collect biometric data on all people. Tied to cryptocurrency, AI schemes. Supposedly way for people to show they are human (run by the people who are trying to make a profit from AI).
|
|-
|[[Xcode]] support dropped for older MacBooks
|Apple has discontinued support for up to date versions of Xcode iOS development on older MacBook devices (discovered on my MacBook Pro 2017, but I’m sure it applies to other old devices as well), resulting in not being able to use a perfectly capable machine for iOS app development without having to go through countless loopholes. 1) you cannot commit new updates without utilizing a third-party medium, 2) the warning and error compiler is out of date due to not being able to update to the latest version, which of course supports the latest iOS release, so you have to figure it out on your own like it’s the 80’s 3) you must commit and release a new TestFlight build (through [1] loophole) to do any testing instead of being able to simulate on your Mac or even a connected device 4) this all really stems from the fact that the new Xcode updates require the new MacOS version which is also discontinued for older MacBooks. This means 8 year old device is basically just useless for such applications.
|[[Category:Sources]]
|-
|[[Zhiyun]]
|Like competing products from [[DJI]], Zhiyun video gimbals require a Chinese smartphone app, internet access and an [[Forced account|account]] to activate on first use.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=ZHIYUN Tutorials |date=25 Jul 2023 |title=ZHIYUN CRANE 2S Activation Tutorial |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_CjNp6pWNoQ |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=_CjNp6pWNoQ |archive-date=23 Feb 2026 |website=YouTube}}</ref>
|-
|Kohls
|There is no option to delete your account on their website
|
|-
|Microsoft Rewards
|Used to be a good program, but over the last few years they've implemented a number of anti-user policies including extensive cool-downs for earning points on Bing, and making it more difficult to redeem points. There are multiple reports on r/microsoftrewards of people getting banned or restricted when they have over $100 worth of points that they are trying to redeem. They've also removed points opportunities that used to be interesting and engaging.
|
|-
|
|City of Berlin installs security cameras that alerts authorities about people who are "loitering without reason".
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Krempl |first=Stefan |date=10 Mar 2026 |title=Surveillance in Berlin: When AI reports "loitering without reason" |url=https://www.heise.de/en/news/Surveillance-in-Berlin-When-AI-reports-loitering-without-reason-11206420.html |website=heise}}</ref>
|}

==List of themes not yet covered==
Consumer Rights Wiki is not an encyclopedia.

*Before proposing or making a theme article, see if you can find an article that covers the topic on wikipedia, or some other reference. If you can, just use a reference to that.
*Check the list of theme articles [[:Category:common terms]], to be sure there isn't already an article on the topic, or one closely related. Sometimes a theme may be covered by generalizing an existing article.

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Theme
!Summary of Theme
!Refs
|-
|Anti-rollback or ARB for device firmware
|most recent example being [[Oneplus phone update introduces hardware anti-rollback]] but ain't exclusive to it. Also implemented by [[Oneplus phone update introduces hardware anti-rollback#Comparison with other manufacturers|Samsung]], [https://mavicpilots.com/threads/not-be-able-to-degrade-firmfare-of-dji-mini2-from-01-06-0200.134806/#post-1518967 DJI] (link found from [[DJI]]) and likely many more.
|
|-
|Car manufacturers replacing physical controls by touch-screens
|This is increasingly common, and puts drivers at risk. Some corps pretend touchscreens are a "premium" or "modern" feature, but are typically cheaper for them
|
|}

==List of companies doing the right thing==
It would be helpful to include examples of companies doing the right thing, even if they aren't, strictly speaking, consumer products.
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Company
!Good deed
!Refs
|-
|APSystems
|After requests from users, the company released a firmware update that adds a local API to their EZ-1M solar micro inverter, allowing it to remain fully usable if the company ends support for the device
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=APsystems EZHI Local API User Manual |url=https://global.apsystems.com/document/apsystems-ezhi-local-api-user-manual/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251107061040/https://global.apsystems.com/document/apsystems-ezhi-local-api-user-manual/ |archive-date=7 Nov 2025|website=global.apsystems.com}}</ref>
|-
|Concept2
|Readily provides parts and diagrams. Exists under a [https://www.concept2.com/about/perpetual-purpose-trust Perpetual Purpose Trust].
|
|-
|Core Devices (from creator of Pebble Smartwatches)
|Not strictly Core Devices, but when Pebble was sold to Fitbit, the servers remained online for some time, and the Pebble app was updated to allow the Rebble community project to take over some of the Pebble server-side functionality. All backers of the upcoming Pebble 2 series of watches were refunded in full, despite it being a crowd-funding campaign.
Following Google's acquisition of Fitbit and after many years, Google released much of the Pebble Smart Watch source code on github (excluding proprietary libraries). Core Devices and Rebble replaced the usage of the proprietary libraries with open source alternatives, and released new Android and iOS apps, not only supporting the new core devices, but bringing updated support to legacy Pebble devices.
|
|-
|Fairphone
|The new Fairphones (5th and 6th generation) are availible with stock android as well as e/os, which is a fork of lineage os and a european alternative cloud provider (murena) instead of google. This has many privacy features (app tracker blocker, tor network usage, and gps spoofing) availible in a few clicks. Also degoogle apps (microg, safetynet, ...) are preinstalled therefore it is w´possible to install everything also from playstore with an anonymous account. As e/os is a fork of lineage os and there is an official guide to flash the fairphone with e/os and is officially supported, flashing lineage os is very easy.
|<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-02-24 |title=How to manually install Android on your Fairphone |url=https://support.fairphone.com/hc/en-us/articles/18896094650513-How-to-manually-install-Android-on-your-Fairphone |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=The Fairphone (Gen. 6) with privacy first /e/OS |url=https://shop.fairphone.com/the-fairphone-gen-6-e-operating-system |url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|Home Assistant
|Open-source smart home platform that provides local control, automation, and interoperability for a wide range of smart home devices. Provides support for many cloud devices after they're subject to [[discontinuation bricking]].
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Home Assistant |url=https://www.home-assistant.io/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260129222300/https://www.home-assistant.io/ |archive-date=2026-01-29 |access-date=2026-02-05}}</ref>
|-
|Noctua
|Extremely long support for old products and availability of upgrade kits
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=LMG Clips |date=19 Feb 2026 |title=The Last CPU Cooler You Will Ever Buy |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D3g4-fb6u90 |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=D3g4-fb6u90 |archive-date=23 Feb 2026}}</ref>
|-
|Numatic International
|A UK based manufacture of commercial and consumer wet/dry floor cleaning products (vacuums, scrubbers, floor buffers) that provides a robust library of technical documents, parts breakdowns, data sheets and training for free on both new and existing products without the need to login, pay additional fees or be an approved repair facility.
|
|-
|Oral-B
|When installing the Android App, there is no login, and the user is asked for analytics tracking consent.
|
|-
|Philips
|Added files for replacement parts to Printables so you can 3D print parts for your Philips products
|
|-
|ratgdo
|A garage door opener controller developed by Paul Wieland, allowing you to locally control it (namely Chamberlain openers that would otherwise require the MyQ app for smart home features).
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wieland |first=Paul |title=About - ratgdo |url=https://ratcloud.llc/pages/about |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251213022055/https://ratcloud.llc/pages/about |archive-date=2025-12-13 |access-date=2026-02-05}}</ref>
|-
|Reticulum
|Reticulum is an open-source, decentralized networking stack designed to communicate between practically any wireless device, even without internet. Its purpose is to provide fully anonymous end-to-end encrypted communication by default, especially in the age of government surveillance. The Reticulum network, protocol, and hardware are not tied any company in particular but were initially created by Github user 'markqvist'. Honorable mention to NomadNet, which is a network of nodes that serve webpages, similar to the internet, that communicate via Reticulum.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=markqvist |title=Reticulum Network |url=https://reticulum.network/ |access-date=2026-02-15 |website=Reticulum |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260222180553/https://reticulum.network/ |archive-date=22 Feb 2026}}</ref>
|-
|stevesgames.co.uk
|Will never put ads or in-app purchases in their computer games and will make gamees available for free after securing the companys future.
|
|-
|Tektronix
|Provided extensive product data on unsupported products to a museum, vintageTEK, and thus to tekwiki and the rest of the community.
|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Lenihan |first=Thomas F. |date=2012-02-28 |title=Copyright Notice |url=https://vintagetek.org/copyright-notice/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250828004431/https://vintagetek.org/copyright-notice/ |archive-date=2025-08-28 |access-date=2025-10-18 |website=vintageTEK museum}}</ref>
|-
|Ulanzi
|The company offers a tutorial on how users can mix their own fog juice to use with Ulanzi mini fog machines from readily available low-cost ingredients, whereas competitors sell proprietary fog juice at extortionate prices, refuse to release the formula and refuse to honour the warranty if users use anything but the OEM brand with their machines.
|<ref>{{Cite web |title=Tutorial {{!}} How to DIY Ulanzi FM01 Fog Machine Juice? |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qiq1B6-dcEM |type=Video}} ([https://preservetube.com/watch?v=qiq1B6-dcEM Archived])</ref>
|}

==See Also==

*[[Louis Rossmann - Video Directory]]
*[[Other Channels - Video Directory|Other Channels - Video Directory]]

==Reference List==
<references />

Apple App Store

2026-03-21T03:16:53Z

2001:4BC9:82B:F663:2205:B7FF:FE00:E700: /* References */ fix archive dates

{{ToneWarning}}
{{ProductCargo
|ArticleType=Service
|Category=Software marketplace
|Company=Apple
|Description=Software marketplace for official Apple products
|InProduction=Yes
|Logo=App Store (iOS).svg
|ProductLine=
|ReleaseYear=2008
|Website=https://www.apple.com/app-store/
}}

'''[[Apple]]''' uses a range of technical measures to maintain control over the App Store ecosystem. While Apple cites security and user-friendliness as the reasoning behind these measures, they often create roadblocks for users as well as app developers. Some of the methods Apple uses to control its ecosystem hinders lawmakers' ability to advocate for the rights of consumers and businesses within Apple's ecosystem and prevents apps from being as useful and free as their customers expect.

Although there are supported iOS application installation source alternatives such as [https://altstore.io/ Altstore], they are not commonly used or known, which gives Apple a practical monopoly over iOS users and iOS app developers.

Apple has made claims that they are unaware about the profitability of the App Store<ref>{{Cite web |last=Lovejoy |first=Ben |date=17 Apr 2024 |title=Schiller doesn’t know whether the App Store is profitable; there are no minutes of meetings |url=https://9to5mac.com/2024/04/17/app-store-is-profitable-apple-notes/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250723043225/https://9to5mac.com/2024/04/17/app-store-is-profitable-apple-notes/ |archive-date=23 Jul 2025|access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[9to5Mac]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Lovejoy |first=Ben |date=17 Jan 2025 |title=Apple denies App Store profit margin is 75% – claims to have no clue |url=https://9to5mac.com/2025/01/17/apple-denies-app-store-profit-margin-is-75-claims-to-have-no-clue/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251218063018/https://9to5mac.com/2025/01/17/apple-denies-app-store-profit-margin-is-75-claims-to-have-no-clue/ |archive-date=18 Dec 2025|access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[9t05Mac]]}}</ref> but takes fees of up to 30% on digital product sales and subscriptions,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mehta |first=Tushar |date=2025-05-06 |title=Apple cuts App Store fees, but experts urge caution against new U.S. pricing guidelines |url=https://www.digitaltrends.com/phones/what-experts-say-about-apple-app-store-pricing-changes/ |access-date=2026-02-20 |website=digitaltrends}} ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251228044205/https://www.digitaltrends.com/phones/what-experts-say-about-apple-app-store-pricing-changes/ Archived])</ref> ranging from game currency to supporting content creators<ref name="patreon">{{Cite web |last=Roth |first=Emma |date=12 Aug 2024 |title=Patreon: adding Apple’s 30 percent tax is the price of staying in the App Store |url=https://www.theverge.com/2024/8/12/24218629/patreon-membership-ios-30-percent-apple-tax |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260128112633/https://www.theverge.com/2024/8/12/24218629/patreon-membership-ios-30-percent-apple-tax |archive-date=28 Jan 2026|access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[The Verge]]}}</ref> to booking a Zoom call with a local business.<ref name="facebook">{{Cite web |last=Paul |first=Katie |last2=Nellis |first2=Stephen |date=28 Aug 2020 |title=Exclusive: Facebook says Apple rejected its attempt to tell users about App Store fees |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-facebook-apple-exclusive/exclusive-facebook-says-apple-rejected-its-attempt-to-tell-users-about-app-store-fees-idUSKBN25O042/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20241110215209/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-facebook-apple-exclusive/exclusive-facebook-says-apple-rejected-its-attempt-to-tell-users-about-app-store-fees-idUSKBN25O042/ |archive-date=10 Nov 2024|access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[Reuters]]}}</ref> Some argue that these fees hinder iOS app developers from innovating because this money cannot be used to further improve their applications.{{Citation needed}} There are groups in support of developers who are experiencing difficulties in continuing development due to Apple (and [[Google]]'s) fees of between 15% and 30% of all revenue. These groups deny the notion that Apple and Google require the money generated by the app more than the developer.{{Citation needed}} These fees also push app developers to increase prices to maximize profits, which increases the prices for end users.

Because of this, several governments including South Korea,<ref>{{Cite web |date=8 Mar 2022 |title=South Korea approves rules on app store law targeting Apple, Google |url=https://www.reuters.com/technology/skorea-approves-rules-app-store-law-targeting-apple-google-2022-03-08/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20231110110331/https://www.reuters.com/technology/skorea-approves-rules-app-store-law-targeting-apple-google-2022-03-08/ |archive-date=10 Nov 2023|access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[Reuters]]}}</ref> Japan,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sharwood |first=Simon |date=13 Jun 2024 |title=Japan forces Apple and Google to allow third-party app stores and payments |url=https://www.theregister.com/2024/06/13/japan_smartphone_software_law/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251114004250/https://www.theregister.com/2024/06/13/japan_smartphone_software_law/ |archive-date=14 Nov 2025|access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[The Register]]}}</ref> the European Union (EU),<ref>{{Cite web |title=Digital Markets Act |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital_Markets_Act |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260210074954/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital_Markets_Act |archive-date=10 Feb 2026 |website=Wikipedia}}</ref> the United Kingdom,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Competition and Markets Authority |date=4 Mar 2021 |title=Investigation into Apple AppStore |url=https://www.gov.uk/cma-cases/investigation-into-apple-appstore |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251019195700/https://www.gov.uk/cma-cases/investigation-into-apple-appstore |archive-date=19 Oct 2025|access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[gov.uk]]}}</ref> Australia,<ref>{{Cite web |date=28 Apr 2021 |title=Dominance of Apple and Google's app stores impacting competition and consumers |url=https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/dominance-of-apple-and-googles-app-stores-impacting-competition-and-consumers |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251216185602/https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/dominance-of-apple-and-googles-app-stores-impacting-competition-and-consumers |archive-date=16 Dec 2025|access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[ACCC]]}}</ref> as well as the US and a handful of US States<ref>{{Cite web |title=Open App Markets Act |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Open_App_Markets_Act |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260206000944/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Open_App_Markets_Act |archive-date=6 Feb 2026 |website=Wikipedia}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=20 Nov 2024 |title=S.5364 - App Store Accountability Act |url=https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/5364/text/is |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251113053216/https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/5364/text/is |archive-date=13 Nov 2025|access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[congress.gov]]}}</ref><ref name="doj">{{Cite web |last=Balsamo |first=Mike |last2=Liedtke |first2=Mike |last3=Whitehurst |first3=Lindsay |last4=Bajak |first4=Frank |date=21 Mar 2024 |title=Justice Department sues Apple, alleging it illegally monopolized the smartphone market |url=https://apnews.com/article/apple-antitrust-monopoly-app-store-justice-department-822d7e8f5cf53a2636795fcc33ee1fc3 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251007161133/https://apnews.com/article/apple-antitrust-monopoly-app-store-justice-department-822d7e8f5cf53a2636795fcc33ee1fc3 |archive-date=7 Oct 2025|access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[APNews]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=19 Feb 2021 |title=It’s time to free ourselves from ‘Big Tech’ monopoly |url=https://azcapitoltimes.com/news/2021/02/19/its-time-to-free-ourselves-from-big-tech-monopoly/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260205235654/https://azcapitoltimes.com/news/2021/02/19/its-time-to-free-ourselves-from-big-tech-monopoly/ |archive-date=5 Feb 2026|access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[Arizona Capitol Times]]}}</ref> have opened investigations into anti-competitive practices as well as have considered or passed legislation to require "gatekeeper platforms" such as Apple to be more reasonable with third-party developers.

In response to such legislative measures, Apple has instituted geo-blocking operating system functionality based on physical location,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Eligibility |url=https://theapplewiki.com/wiki/Eligibility |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251202053700/https://theapplewiki.com/wiki/Eligibility |archive-date=2 Dec 2025|access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[The Apple Wiki]]}}</ref> misrepresenting/overstating risks, and using careful wording with commonly understood terms to describe difficult-to-use systems.{{Citation needed}}

Unlike traditional software license purchases, Apple's App Store terms tie the license to a specific account, making it impossible for users to resell their licenses secondhand, buy apps secondhand, or inherit a license from a relative.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2014-02-10 |title=I can sell my apps? |url=https://discussions.apple.com/thread/5888894 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/nbrEh |archive-date=23 Feb 2026 |access-date=2025-11-25 |website=Apple Community}}</ref> This system has since been copied by numerous other players in the media and digital goods sector.

==Background info==
Important terms in this article:

*'''[[wikipedia:Sandbox (computer security)|Sandbox]]''': Reduces the user's device/data exposure to security risks by reducing what an app is allowed to do.
*'''[https://theapplewiki.com/wiki/Entitlements Entitlements]''': Apple's method of "poking holes" in the sandbox to give the app more permissions. Some are available to developers, while many are only available to Apple.
*'''[[wikipedia:Digital Markets Act|Digital Markets Act]]''': The European Union's recent regulations targeted at large "Big Tech" companies, classified as "Gatekeepers," and aimed at creating a more fair level of competition in digital markets, particularly for small or emerging companies.

==In-app purchases==
Apple has been collecting users' credit card numbers since launching the iTunes Store in 2004. The launch of the App Store in 2008, followed by the introduction of in-app purchases (IAPs) in 2009, allowed iPhone app developers to sell app features to users. The IAP system is provided as a developer framework named [https://developer.apple.com/storekit/ StoreKit]. Apps and their in-app purchases are managed through a dashboard named [https://developer.apple.com/app-store-connect/ App Store Connect]. App sales have eclipsed iTunes Store sales and are now a primary focus of Apple's Media Services division. Apple requires that any purchase of a digital good or service within an app use its in-app purchase system.

App Store purchase fees range from 15% to 30%. In September 2016, Apple expanded subscriptions to be available for any type of app, also introducing a 15% discount incentive for users who had already subscribed for a year.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Goode |first=Lauren |date=2 Sep 2016 |title=Apple’s new subscription offerings are now available to App Store developers |url=https://www.theverge.com/2016/9/2/12774758/apple-developers-app-store-new-subscription-rules |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250824120838/https://www.theverge.com/2016/9/2/12774758/apple-developers-app-store-new-subscription-rules |archive-date=24 Aug 2025|access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[The Verge]]}}</ref> In November 2020, Apple introduced a reduced 15% fee for app developers with annual revenue below $1 million.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Centers |first=Josh |date=18 Nov 2020 |title=Apple Drops App Store Commission to 15% for Small Developers |url=https://tidbits.com/2020/11/18/apple-drops-app-store-commission-to-15-for-small-developers/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251114134335/https://tidbits.com/2020/11/18/apple-drops-app-store-commission-to-15-for-small-developers/ |archive-date=14 Nov 2025|access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[TidBITS]]}}</ref> For developers above this threshold, and for cases excluded from this program, such as for games, the fee is 30%. In the 2008 announcement of the App Store, Apple considered this a reasonable, industry-standard fee. However, the way we use apps has significantly evolved since 2009 - the world has shifted to heavily depend upon mobile apps, which have also evolved into more complex and sustainable business models than a simple one-time purchase.

[[wikipedia:Stripe, Inc.|Stripe]], a popular platform used for payments on the web, uses a base fee of 2.9% plus a fixed $0.30 in the United States.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Pricing |url=https://stripe.com/it/pricing |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251116070029/https://stripe.com/it/pricing |archive-date=16 Nov 2025|access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[Stripe]]}}</ref> With add-on services, before considering volume discounts, a Stripe transaction may have a cost of 6.4% + $1.10.<ref>Calculated from base fee (2.9% + $0.30) + international card (1.5%) + adaptive pricing (2%) + international payment methods ($0.80), as of January 2025</ref> Stripe has been used by businesses ranging from small online stores to [[OpenAI]] for ChatGPT Plus. Competing payment services have similar or identical fees to Stripe. '''The in-app purchase system does not provide sufficient value to justify the considerably higher costs compared to alternative payment platforms.'''

The App Store system poorly handles secondary marketplaces of digital services that exist within the primary App Store marketplace, such as Patreon. Apple requires companies selling digital services to use this inadequate system, in which app developers must account for Apple's fee, which is significant enough to warrant price increases, and to follow rules even if they do not align with the nature of the service being provided. This has led to disputes between Apple and app developers and injects complications at no benefit to the marketplace, the developers, or the end users. The main beneficiary of this system is Apple, which has little to no involvement after delivering the initial app download to the user's phone. The significant fee also often drives app developers to consider building their app around an advertising model instead, creating privacy concerns.

Additionally, the 15% small business fee discount is determined based on the app's overall turnover and is not applied to individual creators within the app's marketplace. An app that generates over $1 million per year by providing services to creators who individually earn less than $1 million per year does not qualify for the discount.

Apple, often in conjunction with Google, engages in lobbying efforts in the United States and other countries to address these issues. "ACT | The App Association", pitched as an association of independent small business app developers, is at least 50% funded by Apple, and does not list its claimed 2,000 members.<ref>{{Cite web |date=1 Oct 2021 |title=Not a class ACT: the so-called App Association is simply an Apple Association and does NOT represent app developers' interests in fair distribution terms |url=https://www.fosspatents.com/2021/10/not-class-act-so-called-app-association.html |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260211064011/http://www.fosspatents.com/2021/10/not-class-act-so-called-app-association.html |archive-date=11 Feb 2026|access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[FOSS Patents]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=19 Sep 2022 |title=Vast majority of ACT {{!}} The App Association's funding comes from Apple, former employees tell Bloomberg: astroturfing against app developers' interests |url=https://www.fosspatents.com/2022/09/vast-majority-of-act-app-associations.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251114214715/http://www.fosspatents.com/2022/09/vast-majority-of-act-app-associations.html |archive-date=14 Nov 2025 |access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[FOSS Patents]]}}</ref> In March 2024, the United States Department of Justice, along with 16 state attorneys general, filed a lawsuit against Apple, alleging that the company "extracts more money from consumers, developers, content creators, artists, publishers, small businesses, and merchants, among others."<ref name="doj" /> The future of this lawsuit is unclear as of April 2025.

Despite criticism of Apple imposing its fee on transactions with small businesses and creators on platforms such as [[#Patreon|Patreon]] and [[#Facebook online events|Facebook]], on January 23, 2025, Apple announced the Advanced Commerce API. It "support[s] developers' evolving business models - such as extensive content catalogs, creator experiences, and subscriptions with optional add-ons."<ref>{{Cite web |date=23 Jan 2025 |title=Introducing the Advanced Commerce API |url=https://developer.apple.com/news/?id=yxy958ya |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251112045125/https://developer.apple.com/news/?id=yxy958ya |archive-date=12 Nov 2025|access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[Apple Developer]]}}</ref> While positioned as a way for such businesses to save development time and avoid ongoing costs by building on top of Apple's established payments platform, its use is necessary for these businesses to comply with the App Store guidelines, as seen in the cases outlined below. The feature requires submitting a description of the app's business model to Apple for approval. In this case, Apple is not acting as a platform for digital services but a gatekeeper of who is and is not allowed to conduct business in the digital market.

===Epic Games===
{{hatnote|See also: [[wikipedia:Epic Games v. Apple|Epic Games v. Apple]] and [[wikipedia:Epic Games v. Google|Epic Games v. Google]]}}

[[Epic Games, Inc.]] is a video game developer and publisher, known for games such as [[Fortnite]] and [[Unreal Tournament]], the [[Unreal Engine]], and the [[Epic Games Store]].

In 2018, Epic Games launched Fortnite on the iOS and Android platforms. The company made the unusual decision not to release the app on the [[Google Play Store]] - instead, it was made available as a standalone [[wikipedia:apk (file format)|Android app package]] file (.apk), which must be installed by following a series of manual steps.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Statt |first=Nick |date=3 Aug 2018 |title=Fortnite for Android will ditch Google Play Store for Epic’s website |url=https://www.theverge.com/2018/8/3/17645982/epic-games-fortnite-android-version-bypass-google-play-store |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260222210941/https://www.theverge.com/2018/8/3/17645982/epic-games-fortnite-android-version-bypass-google-play-store |archive-date=22 Feb 2026|access-date=1 May 2025 |website=[[The Verge]]}}</ref> The app was also released on the [[Samsung]] [[Samsung Galaxy Store|Galaxy Store]]. Google offered Epic Games a $147 million deal to release Fortnite on the Play Store, which the company declined.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Robertson |first=Adi |date=9 Nov 2023 |title=Google offered Epic $147 million to launch Fortnite on the Play Store |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/11/8/23953262/google-epic-fortnite-play-store-investment-antitrust-trial |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251213004431/https://www.theverge.com/2023/11/8/23953262/google-epic-fortnite-play-store-investment-antitrust-trial |archive-date=13 Dec 2025|access-date=1 May 2025 |website=[[The Verge]]}}</ref>

On 22 April 2020, Fortnite was finally released on the Play Store.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Carpenter |first=Nicole |date=22 April 2020 |title=Fortnite available on the Google Play Store for the first time |url=https://www.polygon.com/2020/4/21/21229930/fortnite-available-on-google-play-android-mobile-devices |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251215224522/https://www.polygon.com/2020/4/21/21229930/fortnite-available-on-google-play-android-mobile-devices/ |archive-date=15 Dec 2025|access-date=1 May 2025 |website=[[Polygon]]}}</ref> In a statement, the company explained:

<blockquote>
After 18 months of operating Fortnite on Android outside of the Google Play Store, we've come to a basic realization: Google puts software downloadable outside of Google Play at a disadvantage, through technical and business measures such as scary, repetitive security pop-ups for downloaded and updated software, restrictive manufacturer and carrier agreements and dealings, Google public relations characterizing third party software sources as malware, and new efforts such as Google Play Protect to outright block software obtained outside the Google Play store.
</blockquote>

On 13 August 2020, Epic Games launched a campaign against both Apple and Google's app store business practices. The company released app updates on both platforms, introducing a method for purchasing V-Bucks, in-game currency, at a 20% discount by directly transacting with Epic Games, against the developer rules of both platforms. The platforms responded by removing the game from their storefronts. Epic Games then filed civil antitrust lawsuits against both companies in the Northern District of California.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Statt |first=Nick |date=14 Aug 2020 |title=Epic Games is suing Apple |url=https://www.theverge.com/2020/8/13/21367963/epic-fortnite-legal-complaint-apple-ios-app-store-removal-injunctive-relief |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251204063629/https://www.theverge.com/2020/8/13/21367963/epic-fortnite-legal-complaint-apple-ios-app-store-removal-injunctive-relief |archive-date=4 Dec 2025|access-date=1 May 2025 |website=[[The Verge]]}}</ref> The campaign, branded "Free Fortnite," was later extended with lawsuits and complaints in Australia,<ref>{{Cite web |date=18 Nov 2020 |title=Epic Games extends its fight against Apple to Australia |url=https://www.epicgames.com/site/en-US/freefortnite-australia-press-release |url-status=live |access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[Epic Games]] |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251219044545/https://www.epicgames.com/site/en-US/freefortnite-australia-press-release |archive-date=19 Dec 2025}}</ref> the European Union,<ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Feb 2021 |title=Epic Game Files EU Antitrust Complaint Against Apple |url=https://www.epicgames.com/site/en-US/news/epic-games-files-eu-antitrust-complaint-against-apple |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251220055703/https://www.epicgames.com/site/en-US/news/epic-games-files-eu-antitrust-complaint-against-apple |archive-date=20 Dec 2025|access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[Epic Games]]}}</ref> and the United Kingdom.<ref>{{Cite web |date=30 Mar 2021 |title=Epic Games files complaint to support CMA Apple investigation |url=https://www.epicgames.com/site/en-US/news/epic-games-files-complaint-to-support-cma-apple-investigation |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251220060134/https://www.epicgames.com/site/en-US/news/epic-games-files-complaint-to-support-cma-apple-investigation |archive-date=20 Dec 2025|access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[Epic Games]]}}</ref>

On September 11, 2021, Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers decided the case. While the lawsuit against Apple failed on nine of the ten counts, Rogers ruled against Apple's use of "anti-steering" - its strategy of preventing users from being "steered" to a third-party storefront for payment processing - and placed a permanent injunction on this behavior.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Brandon |first=Russell |date=11 Sep 2021 |title=Apple must allow other forms of in-app purchase, rules judge in Epic v. Apple |url=https://www.theverge.com/2021/9/10/22662320/epic-apple-ruling-injunction-judge-court-app-store |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260105234225/https://www.theverge.com/2021/9/10/22662320/epic-apple-ruling-injunction-judge-court-app-store |archive-date=5 Jan 2026|access-date=1 May 2025 |website=[[The Verge]]}}</ref> Despite the case mostly failing, the discovery process provided significant insight into Apple's decision-making process regarding App Store policies, including decisions made in major app review disputes. In one case, executive Phil Schiller argued for reducing the fee by 30%.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gurman |first=Mark |date=4 May 2021 |title=Apple’s Schiller Floated Cutting App Store Fees a Decade Ago |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-05-03/apple-s-schiller-floated-cutting-app-store-fees-a-decade-ago |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20231224122049/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-05-03/apple-s-schiller-floated-cutting-app-store-fees-a-decade-ago |archive-date=24 Dec 2023|access-date=1 May 2025 |website=[[Bloomberg]]}}</ref>

Epic Games and Apple both appealed the decision. Thirty-five state attorneys-general, the [[Electronic Frontier Foundation]] (EFF), [[Microsoft]], among others, filed amicus briefs in support of Epic Games.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Peters |first=Jay |date=29 Jan 2022 |title=Epic largely lost to Apple, but 35 states are now backing its fight in a higher court |url=https://www.theverge.com/2022/1/28/22907106/epic-games-v-apple-amicus-briefs-states-eff-microsoft-appeal |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250723144138/https://www.theverge.com/2022/1/28/22907106/epic-games-v-apple-amicus-briefs-states-eff-microsoft-appeal |archive-date=23 Jul 2025|access-date=1 May 2025 |website=[[The Verge]]}}</ref>

On 11 December 2023, the jury in the case against Google decided in favor of Epic Games on all 11 counts.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bensinger |first=Greg |last2=Scarcella |first2=Mike |date=13 Dec 2023 |title=Epic Games wins antitrust case against Google over Play app store |url=https://www.reuters.com/legal/google-epic-games-face-off-app-antitrust-trial-nears-end-2023-12-11/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20240105051308/https://www.reuters.com/legal/google-epic-games-face-off-app-antitrust-trial-nears-end-2023-12-11/ |archive-date=5 Jan 2024|access-date=1 May 2025 |website=[[Reuters]]}}</ref>

On 1 May 2025, Rogers found that Apple wilfully chose not to comply with the 2021 injunction, commenting that it was a "gross miscalculation" that "this court would tolerate such insubordination."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Peters |first=Jay |date=1 May 2025 |title=A judge just blew up Apple’s control of the App Store |url=https://www.theverge.com/news/659246/apple-epic-app-store-judge-ruling-control |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260204174552/https://www.theverge.com/news/659246/apple-epic-app-store-judge-ruling-control |archive-date=4 Feb 2026|access-date=1 May 2025 |website=[[The Verge]]}}</ref>

===Facebook online events===
In August 2020, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Facebook introduced the ability for small businesses to accept an entrance fee for events. Previously, Facebook would only serve as a way to RSVP for an event; the organizer had to use a third-party event ticketing system to collect fees. The company pledged not to collect any fee on event sales "until 2023."<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 Aug 2020 |title=Paid Online Events for Small Business Recovery |url=https://about.fb.com/news/2020/08/paid-online-events/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260126172140/https://about.fb.com/news/2020/08/paid-online-events/ |archive-date=26 Jan 2026|access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[Meta]]}}</ref>

Apple, however, required the feature to use an in-app purchases system. This introduced Apple's 30% fee. Because this increased the cost for end users and was not a fee imposed by the event holders, it was initially displayed as a line item upon check out. Apple argued that this disclosure was "irrelevant."<ref name="facebook" /> In the end, Facebook was allowed display the fee, but ''without'' stating that it was an App Store fee. Apple's reluctance to have these fees transparently shown and identified in the course of the purchase is confusing if such fees considered necessary and fair.

===HEY===
HEY.com is a paid webmail provider launched in June 2020 by long-time software company [[wikipedia:37signals|37signals]], specializing in inbox organization tools.

After successfully launching the initial version of the app on the App Store, the company announced that an update was rejected due to a complaint about the business model. The app does not support in-app purchases; instead, users are expected to have an account with the service already. Apple did not like this arrangement and demanded that the company build an in-app subscription option. The company argued that it is being held to a different set of rules than apps such as [[Netflix, Inc.|Netflix]], whose app does not provide any way to purchase a subscription.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kastrenakes |first=Jacob |date=17 Jun 2020 |title=Hey.com exec says Apple is acting like ‘gangsters,’ rejecting App Store updates and demanding cut of sales |url=https://www.theverge.com/2020/6/16/21293419/hey-apple-rejection-ios-app-store-dhh-gangsters-antitrust |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251113194215/https://www.theverge.com/2020/6/16/21293419/hey-apple-rejection-ios-app-store-dhh-gangsters-antitrust |archive-date=13 Nov 2025|access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[The Verge]]}}</ref> After a suggestion from Apple executive Phil Schiller in the media, HEY introduced a 14-day free trial mode, which was approved.<ref>https://www.hey.com/apple/path/ ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251114230238/https://www.hey.com/apple/path/ Archived])</ref><ref>https://techcrunch.com/2020/06/18/interview-apples-schiller-says-position-on-hey-app-is-unchanged-and-no-rules-changes-are-imminent/ ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251113115149/https://techcrunch.com/2020/06/18/interview-apples-schiller-says-position-on-hey-app-is-unchanged-and-no-rules-changes-are-imminent/ Archived])</ref>

===Patreon===
In August 2024, [[Patreon]] announced a change in arrangement with Apple for its App Store app. From November 2024, subscriptions started from the iOS app would be required to use the in-app purchase system, bypassing Patreon's own long-standing payment practices.<ref>{{Cite web |date=12 Aug 2024 |title=Apple’s requirements are about to hit creators and fans on Patreon. Here’s what you need to know. |url=https://news.patreon.com/articles/understanding-apple-requirements-for-patreon |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251215213556/https://news.patreon.com/articles/understanding-apple-requirements-for-patreon |archive-date=15 Dec 2025|access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[Patreon]]}}</ref><ref name="patreon" /> This change does not affect the Android app.

By forcing Patreon out of the payments pipeline, specific payment models are no longer available to users of Patreon's iOS app. Creators who rely on the "per-creation" payment model, as opposed to the standard "per-month", can no longer be subscribed to from the app. The app is also unable to support the "first-of-the-month" model, where payments from all subscribers are collected on the first day of the month, rather than every 30 days, since each member's subscription day varies. The price must also be rounded to a price tier supported by Apple.

Patreon allows creators to choose between increasing their prices by 30% in the iOS app or maintaining the same prices, forfeiting 30% to Apple. Creators frequently remind potential supporters not to use the Patreon iOS app, adding extra inconvenience to those wanting to support the work of small creators.

<gallery mode="packed" heights="400px">
File:Patreon iOS app pricing options - fee on top.png|"Maintain earnings and cover Apple's fee by increasing prices in the iOS app" (Recommended)
File:Patreon iOS app pricing options - absorb fee.png|"Keep prices in the iOS app the same and cover Apple's fee yourself."
</gallery>

A similar case occurred with the app Fanhouse in 2021.<ref>{{Cite web |last=@jasminericegirl |date=9 Jun 2021 |title=#fuckapple, a thread I cofounded @fanhouseapp 8 months ago to empower creators to monetize their content. We pay creators 90% of earnings. Now, Apple is threatening to remove Fanhouse from the app store unless we give them 30% of creator earnings. This is theft and exploitation. |url=https://x.com/jasminericegirl/status/1402691047940100100 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250708194039/https://x.com/jasminericegirl/status/1402691047940100100 |archive-date=8 Jul 2025|access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[X]]}}</ref>

===Twitter===
In August 2021, [[Twitter]] introduced a feature named Super Follows (now Subscriptions), in which users can pay a subscription fee to access more of a creator's content. For each user who enables Subscriptions, Twitter must submit a new in-app purchase SKU to the App Store, which will become available with the next update to the app.<ref>{{Cite web |last=@wongmjane |date=2 Sep 2021 |title=Each Super Follow is an In-App Purchase on the App Store, but because there are too many IAPs for the Twitter app, the App Store only shows 10 instead of the full list |url=https://x.com/wongmjane/status/1433372120080261120 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250708194042/https://x.com/wongmjane/status/1433372120080261120 |archive-date=8 Jul 2025|access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[X]]}}</ref> This, of course, is subject to the 30% fee. At the time of writing in January 2025, viewing the App Store listing reveals Elon Musk's $4.00 subscription as the fourth most popular IAP item.

==Notarization==
Since 2015, Apple has required all Mac apps to be "notarized." This is a preliminary, automated malware check, which, upon passing, provides a notary certificate that gets "stapled" to the app. Apple's explanation:

<blockquote>
Notarization of macOS software is not App Review. The Apple notary service is an automated system that scans your software for malicious content, checks for code-signing issues, and returns the results to you quickly. If there are no issues, the notary service generates a ticket for you to staple to your software; the notary service also publishes that ticket online where Gatekeeper can find it.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Notarizing macOS software before distribution |url=https://developer.apple.com/documentation/security/notarizing-macos-software-before-distribution |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260126224658/https://developer.apple.com/documentation/security/notarizing-macos-software-before-distribution |archive-date=26 Jan 2026|access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[Apple Developer]]}}</ref>
</blockquote>

Whether this approach is actually better than that used by [[Microsoft_Windows|Windows]] antivirus, which only detects new malware samples when they are already on a user's computer, is a separate topic.

To comply with the DMA's regulations on app marketplaces, Apple created a new channel for releasing apps outside of the iOS App Store. Apps go through a notarization process. But the process is definitely ''not'' notarization. The name is intentionally being abused, by contrast to notarization on macOS, to make you believe it is something other than the existing App Review system. Despite the pain some developers and users have with it, notarization on macOS has always been considered a net positive. It made sense to take advantage of its reputation for the entirely different "notarization" on iOS.

See for yourself - view the [https://developer.apple.com/app-store/review/guidelines/ App Review Guidelines] and tick "Show Notarization Review Guidelines Only". While this eliminates most rules, a significant number of them remain in place. These apps are still reviewed and tested by the App Review team, must have a complete product listing in App Store Connect, and can be outright rejected - all in the same way as an App Store app.

By contrast, all that is required for notarization on macOS is for your app not to be malware. You submit it to an automated system that approves it within minutes. '''You don't need to convince Apple that your app is worthy of existing on their platform.'''

The purpose of macOS notarization is that Apple maintains a record of all binaries intended for wide distribution on macOS, allowing it to review them both in advance and regularly for known malware/common malware patterns. If a malware app manages to get through, when Apple initially finds out, they can go back into the notary records and find every sample of that malware to analyze and block. This is a purely technical process, managed by skilled security researchers. At the same time, iOS app review and "notarization" are business processes managed by workers who have been given a checklist of violations to look for.

Apple is retaining complete control over what's allowed to run on iOS. On macOS, you can choose to run apps that have not been notarized (even though the process to bypass the warning is intentionally difficult). On iOS, you never get even that option. What Apple created is the App Store, but with more steps. It is still available on the App Store, but it is hidden so that it can only be installed through the third-party store it's tied to.

*Mysk: "iOS should enable alternative marketplaces to add their own links when users share their apps. Links still point to the App Store, and if the app is not available there, this happens."<ref>{{Cite web |last=@mysk_co |date=28 Jun 2024 |title=iOS should enable alternative marketplaces to add their own links when users share their apps. Links still point to the App Store and if the app is not available there, this happens: |url=https://x.com/mysk_co/status/1806638308455256242 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250708194049/https://x.com/mysk_co/status/1806638308455256242 |archive-date=8 Jul 2025|access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[X]]}}</ref>

==JIT==
[[wikipedia:Safari_(web_browser)|Safari]] is allowed to use [[wikipedia:Just-in-time compilation|JIT]] to compile code from any site, just like Apple's [https://apps.apple.com/app/swift-playgrounds/id908519492 Playgrounds] app on iPad. Playgrounds bundle Apple's [[wikipedia:Swift (programming language)|Swift]] compiler and share back-end code with the version of Playgrounds found in [[wikipedia:Xcode|Xcode]].

Third-party apps, such as Pythonista (a [[wikipedia:Python_(programming_language)|Python]] [[wikipedia:Integrated_development_environment|IDE]]), emulators like Delta and [[wikipedia:UTM_(software)|UTM]], and [[wikipedia:Terminal_emulator|terminal]] environments like iSH, are not allowed to use JIT; instead, they must [[wikipedia:Interpreter_(computing)|interpret]] code, which results in severe performance degradation and increased computational expense, potentially draining more battery.

An example of apps being heavily affected by this restriction is UTM. UTM is a port of [[wikipedia:QEMU|QEMU]] for iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, allowing users to create [[wikipedia:Virtual_machine|VMs]] that can run various operating systems, such as Microsoft Windows. The iPhone's hardware is capable enough to emulate various modern OSes at full speed. Still, due to Apple's JIT limitation, the team behind UTM had to create UTM SE (slow edition), which doesn't require JIT but is nowhere near as fast as UTM with JIT, only being capable of running MS-DOS and derivatives at acceptable speeds. While methods that enable JIT for apps other than Safari and Playgrounds exist (some are currently working on iOS 18.5, like [https://apps.apple.com/us/app/stikdebug/id6744045754 StikDebug]), Apple does not allow the use of JIT in notarized apps, meaning that apps that support JIT will have to be [[Sideloading|sideloaded]], which comes with its own set of restrictions.

In the EU, Apple permitted web browsers to use rendering and [[JavaScript]] [[wikipedia:Browser_engine|engines]] other than the built-in with Apple WebKit/JavaScriptCore, with the option for JS engines to use JIT. The browser still needs to be approved by Apple for an entitlement and must then work within the APIs provided by Apple. However, as of January 2025, no browsers using engines different from the built-in ones have been released, primarily due to arbitrarily imposed restrictions intended to discourage the use and development of third-party engines.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Mozilla says Apple’s new browser rules are ‘as painful as possible’ for Firefox |url=https://www.theverge.com/2024/1/26/24052067/mozilla-apple-ios-browser-rules-firefox |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260220155551/https://www.theverge.com/2024/1/26/24052067/mozilla-apple-ios-browser-rules-firefox |archive-date=20 Feb 2026|access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[The Verge]]}}</ref>

However, Apple still does not allow different engines outside of the EU, with or without JIT support.<ref>{{Cite web |title=App Review Guidelines |url=https://developer.apple.com/app-store/review/guidelines/#2.5.6 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260128202153/https://developer.apple.com/app-store/review/guidelines/ |archive-date=28 Jan 2026|access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[Apple Developer]]}}</ref>

==In-app browsers==
When apps want to display web content without opening the standalone Safari browser, app developers can use Apple’s [https://developer.apple.com/documentation/webkit/ WebKit] APIs, such as WKWebView. However, due to Apple’s [https://developer.apple.com/documentation/security/app-sandbox application sandboxing] and WebKit’s data-isolation model, web content loaded inside one app does not have access to Safari’s [[Web cookie|cookies]], browsing history, saved sessions, or extensions, nor to data from other apps’ embedded web views. Each app’s embedded browser operates with its own isolated website data store.

As a result, web pages opened inside embedded browsers, such as those used in apps like Facebook, do not appear in Safari’s browsing history, and there is typically no persistent, user-accessible history within the app itself. Users may also be asked to sign in to the same services (for example, during OAuth login flows like Google) because cookies and session data are not shared with Safari. Additionally, Safari extensions, including content blockers, dark-mode tools, and other privacy or accessibility extensions, do not function inside embedded web views.

Apple states App Sandboxing "provides protection to system resources and user data by limiting your app’s access to resources requested through entitlements."<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-01-12 |title=App Sandbox {{!}} Apple Developer Documentation |url=https://developer.apple.com/documentation/security/app-sandbox |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260127234927/https://developer.apple.com/documentation/security/app-sandbox |archive-date=2026-01-27 |access-date=2025-01-12 |website=Apple Developer}}</ref> However, developers have voiced frustration with how WebKit is sandboxed which can result in degraded user experiences, such as with repeated OAuth login flows between apps.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-01-12 |title=Impact of iOS 11 no longer providing shared cookies between Safari, Safari View Controller instances |url=https://github.com/openid/AppAuth-iOS/issues/120 |url-status=live |access-date=2025-01-12 |website=GitHub |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251113172345/https://github.com/openid/AppAuth-iOS/issues/120 |archive-date=13 Nov 2025}}</ref> Some developers have found workarounds for sharing information with the native Safari app, but it is unknown whether these methods still function in modern versions Apple's various operating systems.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Storey |first=Leon |date=2025-01-12 |title=Does WKWebView uses cookies from Safari? |url=https://stackoverflow.com/a/41486576 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260218231045/https://stackoverflow.com/questions/40148060/does-wkwebview-uses-cookies-from-safari |archive-date=2026-02-18 |access-date=2025-01-12 |website=StackOverflow}}</ref>

==See also==
*[https://theapplewiki.com/wiki/Eligibility Eligibility]
*Posts written by the author of this article:
**[https://adamdemasi.com/2024/04/19/app-marketplace-experience.html The iOS 17.4 app marketplace flow is a disaster] ([https://web.archive.org/web/20251112051617/https://adamdemasi.com/2024/04/19/app-marketplace-experience.html Archived] 2025-11-12)
**[https://adamdemasi.com/2024/04/20/ios-eligibility.html How I tricked iOS into giving me EU DMA features] ([https://web.archive.org/web/20260112053403/https://adamdemasi.com/2024/04/20/ios-eligibility.html Archived] 2026-01-12)
**[https://adamdemasi.com/2024/04/23/ios-eligibility-features.html Features controlled by iOS 17.4's eligibility system] ([https://web.archive.org/web/20260112053400/https://adamdemasi.com/2024/04/23/ios-eligibility-features.html Archived] 2026-01-12)

==References==
<references />

[[Category:Apple App Store]]

7-Eleven

2026-03-21T03:00:00Z

2001:4BC9:82B:F663:2205:B7FF:FE00:E700: /* References */ fix archive date

{{Incomplete|Issue 1=Some sections not yet completed|Issue 4=}}{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1927-05-15
|Industry=Retail
|Logo=Wikipedia 7-eleven logo.png
|ParentCompany=Seven-Eleven Japan
|Type=Public subsidiary
|Website=https://www.7-eleven.com/
|Description=Founded in 1927, it's an American retailer store that is an subsidiary of Seven-Eleven Japan, which is owned by Seven & I Holdings.
}}'''[[wikipedia:7-11|7-Eleven]]''' is an American retailer store that is an subsidiary of Seven eleven Japan that is owned by Seven & I Holdings. Founded in 1927 by Joe C. Thompson''',''' originally known as Southland Ice Company, operated [[wikipedia:Ice_house_(building)|ice houses]] in Dallas Texas until it became an subsidiary of Southland Corporation. As a result of new ownership, all the retailers were named to Tote'm Stores, until renamed to 7-eleven in 1947 to reflect their new hours at 7am - 11 pm. <ref>{{Cite web |author=Popular Timelines |date=2026-01-29 |title=7-Eleven |url=https://populartimelines.com/timeline/7-Eleven |url-status=live |access-date=2026-01-29 |website=Popular Timelines |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250421041952/https://populartimelines.com/timeline/7-Eleven |archive-date=21 Apr 2025}}</ref>

==Consumer-impact summary==
*False Advertising
*Privacy Violations
*Security Vulnerabilities
*Overcharging Customers
*Gaining Monopoly over local stores

==Incidents==
This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].

===7-Eleven Fuel App Security Breach in Australia and Japan===
{{Main|link to the main CR Wiki article}}
On July 2, 2019, an customer contacted the company about unauthorized charges, resulting in an investigation
[[File:7 eleven denmark attack.png|alt=7-Eleven Response to Denmark Attack on Twitter|thumb|Response to Denmark Attack on Twitter]]
that discovered hackers gaining access to some accounts,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2019-07-08 |title=7-Eleven Japan suspends mobile app after data breach |url=https://www.paymentsdive.com/ex/mpt/news/7-eleven-japan-suspends-mobile-app-after-data-breach/? |url-status=live |access-date=2026-01-31 |website=Payments Dive |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250722060552/https://www.paymentsdive.com/ex/mpt/news/7-eleven-japan-suspends-mobile-app-after-data-breach/? |archive-date=22 Jul 2025}}</ref> affecting 900 customers and resulting in more than $500,000 lost in fraudulent purchases.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Coble |first=Sarah |date=2019-10-19 |title=Drivers' Data Exposed in 7-Eleven Fuel App Breach |url=https://www.infosecurity-magazine.com/news/drivers-data-exposed-in-7eleven/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-01-31 |website=Infosecurity Magazine |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250726000525/https://www.infosecurity-magazine.com/news/drivers-data-exposed-in-7eleven/ |archive-date=26 Jul 2025}}</ref> The company issued an apology for the incident and stated that customers will be compensated for the incident, eventually leading to the creation of the customer support emergency number to help those affected. Two Chinese men were arrested in connection with this incident.

On October 25, 2019, an customer from Australia reported the breach when he was able to access other customers personal information. In response, 7-Eleven temporary shut down the app, describing it as "an maintenance issue", and opening the app at 5:30 pm.<ref name=":0" /> It is unclear how many customer's were affected,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hudson |first=Kristin |date=2019-11-01 |title=7-Eleven Customer Data Exposed in App Security Breach |url=https://www.identityiq.com/articles/7-eleven-customer-data-exposed-in-app-security-breach |url-status=live |access-date=2026-01-31 |website=Identity IQ |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251207221445/https://www.identityiq.com/articles/7-eleven-customer-data-exposed-in-app-security-breach |archive-date=7 Dec 2025}}</ref> however the hacker was never found.

'''<big>7-Eleven Denmark Ransomware attack</big>'''

On August 8, 2022, 7-Eleven disclosed that around 175 stores checkout and payment systems were hacked, <ref>{{Cite web |last=Panettieri |first=Joe |date=2022-08-14 |title=7-Eleven Denmark Ransomware Cyberattack: Timeline Details and Recovery Updates |url=https://www.msspalert.com/news/7-eleven-denmark-cyberattack-details-and-recovery-timeline |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-02 |website=MSSP Alert |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251008001602/https://www.msspalert.com/news/7-eleven-denmark-cyberattack-details-and-recovery-timeline |archive-date=8 Oct 2025}}</ref> resulting in closure of 175 stores. The company initially responded by calling it an hacker attack, however on August 10, the company later backtracked and confirmed the attack was ransomware,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Cluley |first=Graham |date=2022-08-12 |title=Ransomware attack blamed for closure of all 7-Eleven stores in Denmark |url=https://www.tripwire.com/state-of-security/ransomware-attack-blamed-closure-7-eleven-stores-denmark |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-02 |website=Fortra |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251118185044/https://www.tripwire.com/state-of-security/ransomware-attack-blamed-closure-7-eleven-stores-denmark |archive-date=18 Nov 2025}}</ref> and on the same day, opened 110 of the original stores affected. It's not disclosed if any consumers were affected, or if any affiliated hacker groups were caught. <ref>{{Cite web |last=Abrams |first=Lawrence |date=2022-08-10 |title=7-Eleven Denmark confirms ransomware attack behind store closures |url=https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/7-eleven-denmark-confirms-ransomware-attack-behind-store-closures/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-02 |website=Bleeping Computer |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251209145559/https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/7-eleven-denmark-confirms-ransomware-attack-behind-store-closures/ |archive-date=9 Dec 2025}}</ref>

'''<big>7-Eleven Fuel Pump Problem</big>'''

In 2008, the Office of Fair Trading conducted an investigation in an 7-Eleven store from Australia that concluded in numerous items being overcharged. A year later, the Office of Fair Trading found that the original items were still overpriced, resulting in 7-Eleven receiving a fine of $4000. <ref>{{Cite web |last=Lawlor |first=Peter |date=2009-06-24 |title=7-Eleven store fined for false price scans |url=https://statements.qld.gov.au/statements/57188 |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-02 |website=The Queensland Cabinet and Ministerial Directory |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260223021822/https://statements.qld.gov.au/statements/57188 |archive-date=23 Feb 2026}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Ayrouth |first=Elie |date=2011-05-17 |title=Is 7-Eleven Overcharging You At The Register? |url=https://www.foodbeast.com/news/is-7-eleven-overcharging-you-at-the-register/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-02 |website=Food Beast |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260215213128/https://www.foodbeast.com/news/is-7-eleven-overcharging-you-at-the-register/ |archive-date=15 Feb 2026}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2009-06-24 |title=7-Eleven fined for overcharging |url=https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/national/queensland/7eleven-fined-for-overcharging-20090624-cw5w.html |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-02 |website=Brisbane Times|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260223010038/https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/national/queensland/7eleven-fined-for-overcharging-20090624-cw5w.html |archive-date=23 Feb 2026}}</ref>

In 2018, it was reported that 7-Eleven was charging customers while the gas nozzle was not being used. When one customer reported this to the store clerk, the clerk responded with," there was nothing that can be done". After news of this incident gain traction with videos and news outlets reporting on the situation, 7-Eleven responded by shutting down the pumps and repairing it immediately, however it's unknown if customers were ever refunded. <ref>{{Cite web |last=Gatollari |first=Mustafa |date=2025-06-20 |title=Wonder How Long I Left It In:’ Driver Fills Up Gas at 7-Eleven. Then She Catches the Pump Still Charging After She’s Finished |url=https://www.motor1.com/news/763262/7-eleven-pump-charges-after-done-fueling/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-02 |website=motor1.com |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250723101550/https://www.motor1.com/news/763262/7-eleven-pump-charges-after-done-fueling/ |archive-date=23 Jul 2025}}</ref> <ref>{{Cite web |last=Meredith |first=Michelle |date=2018-05-30 |title=Ghost gas pump charges Orange County customers while they aren’t pumping |url=https://www.wesh.com/article/ghost-gas-pump-charges-orange-county-customers-while-they-arent-pumping/20956685 |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-02 |website=Wesh |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20211025224103/https://www.wesh.com/article/ghost-gas-pump-charges-orange-county-customers-while-they-arent-pumping/20956685 |archive-date=25 Oct 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Derridj |first=Mustapha |date=2025-08-10 |title=She Fills Up at 7-Eleven… and Notices the Pump Keeps Charging Even After It Stops |url=https://thenewswheel.com/she-fills-up-at-7-eleven-and-notices-the-pump-keeps-charging-even-after-it-stops/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-02 |website=The News Wheel |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250903114329/https://thenewswheel.com/she-fills-up-at-7-eleven-and-notices-the-pump-keeps-charging-even-after-it-stops/ |archive-date=3 Sep 2025}}</ref>

On October 3, 2022, several people reported after paying for gas at 7-Eleven, the customers ended up with water in their tanks. The company responded by saying," ''"We received reports of tainted gas at 20955 Davenport Dr. in Sterling, VA and are currently investigating this matter further. Customers who believe their car was impacted may call 1-800-255-0711."'' Customers who reached out to the phone number experience slow responses. <ref>{{Cite web |last=FLORES |first=CHRISTIAN |date=2022-10-16 |title=2 more people had water in gas tank after fueling at Va. 7-Eleven, state confirms reports |url=https://kutv.com/news/nation-world/2-more-people-had-water-in-gas-tank-after-fueling-at-va-7-eleven-state-confirms-reports-sterling-locations-documentation-identical-car-issues-virginia-department-of-agriculture-and-consumer-services-tainted-gas-reports |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-02 |website=2KUTV|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260215213424/https://kutv.com/news/nation-world/2-more-people-had-water-in-gas-tank-after-fueling-at-va-7-eleven-state-confirms-reports-sterling-locations-documentation-identical-car-issues-virginia-department-of-agriculture-and-consumer-services-tainted-gas-reports |archive-date=15 Feb 2026}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Flores |first=Christian |date=2022-10-16 |title=2 other people had water in gas tank after fueling at Sterling 7-Eleven, complaint reveals |url=https://wjla.com/news/local/7-eleven-gas-station-water-in-gas-tanks-sterling-loudoun-county-virginia-department-of-agriculture-and-consumer-services-vdacs-car-problems-mechanic |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-02 |website=Fox17 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20240702163215/https://wjla.com/news/local/7-eleven-gas-station-water-in-gas-tanks-sterling-loudoun-county-virginia-department-of-agriculture-and-consumer-services-vdacs-car-problems-mechanic |archive-date=2 Jul 2024}}</ref>

A customer named Bradly had a comment about the situation, saying, "I would love for them to respond and compensate me for everything I've had to pay for so far."

Another was a customer was Garret, which he responded with," I'm not getting any feedback from 7-Eleven. I'm not getting any feedback from the insurance. What do you do?"

It is unclear whether the customers gotten refunded.

On December 2025, a software glitch caused around 200 customers to pay for gas at 100 times the value, with one instance being up to $4000. Originally, store clerks refused to assist customers until numerous complaints and threats for law enforcement did 7-Eleven started refunding customer, with one instances giving a customer $500 bonus. 7-Eleven responded in a public statement saying; <ref>{{Cite web |last=Noyes |first=Dan |date=2025-12-20 |title=Computer glitch leads to Bay Area 7-Eleven customers paying 100 times more to fill up |url=https://abc7news.com/post/hundreds-bay-area-7-eleven-customers-overcharged-100-times-gas/18301544/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260224042410/https://abc7news.com/post/hundreds-bay-area-7-eleven-customers-overcharged-100-times-gas/18301544/ |archive-date=2026-02-24 |access-date=2026-02-23 |website=Abc}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Woodall |first=Angela |date=2026-01-23 |title=Charged $4K For A Tank Of Gas — 7-Eleven Glitch Slams Bay Area Customers: Report |url=https://patch.com/california/pinole-hercules/40-fill-ups-4-000-bills-7-eleven-glitch-slams-bay-area-customers |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-23 |website=Patch |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260125042556/https://patch.com/california/pinole-hercules/40-fill-ups-4-000-bills-7-eleven-glitch-slams-bay-area-customers |archive-date=25 Jan 2026}}</ref> <blockquote>"Full refunds, including fees, and an additional $500 are being issued to customers whose transactions are confirmed to have been affected. Anyone who believes they were affected and hasn't heard from us should call 1-800-255-0711 so we can verify their information and transaction" </blockquote>

=='''<big>Lawsuits</big>'''==
{| class="wikitable"
|Controversy
|Date
|Description
|Result
|Related article
|- valign="top"
|7-Eleven Collected Facial Imagery of customers in Australia
|2020
|In June 2020, 7-Eleven introduced an survey called feedback kiosks that customers voluntary participate in a survey about their experience. Conducted on tablets, it collected facial images of customers without their consent.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kwan |first=Campbell |date=2021-10-13 |title=7-Eleven breached customer privacy by collecting facial imagery without consent |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/7-eleven-collected-customer-facial-imagery-during-in-store-surveys-without-consent/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260131225830/https://www.zdnet.com/article/7-eleven-collected-customer-facial-imagery-during-in-store-surveys-without-consent/ |archive-date=2026-01-31 |access-date=2026-01-31 |website=ZDnet}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Marzouk |first=Zack |date=2021-10-14 |title=7-Eleven biometric data collection found in breach of Australian privacy laws |url=https://www.itpro.com/security/privacy/361232/7-eleven-biometrics-data-breached-australia-data-laws |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260131230152/https://www.itpro.com/security/privacy/361232/7-eleven-biometrics-data-breached-australia-data-laws |archive-date=2026-01-31 |access-date=2026-01-31 |website=ITPro}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-02-07 |title=Privacy and biometric information. 7-Eleven breaches customer’s privacy |url=https://kkilawyers.com.au/privacy-and-biometric-information-7-eleven-breaches-customers-privacy/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-01-31 |website=Kalus Kenny Intelex Lawyers |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250331205556/https://kkilawyers.com.au/privacy-and-biometric-information-7-eleven-breaches-customers-privacy/ |archive-date=31 Mar 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Thomas |first=Liisa |last2=Dao |first2=Anne |date=2021-11-17 |title=Australia Objects to 7-Eleven’s In-Store Use of Facial Recognition Technology |url=https://www.eyeonprivacy.com/2021/11/australia-objects-to-store-use-facial-recognition-technology/ |url-status=live |website=Sheppard Mullin |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250914220601/https://www.eyeonprivacy.com/2021/11/australia-objects-to-store-use-facial-recognition-technology/ |archive-date=14 Sep 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Chapman |first=Alex |last2=Mitchell |first2=Stefan |date=2021-10-14 |title=7-Eleven told to delete customers’ photos after facial recognition software falls under privacy commissioner’s scope |url=https://7news.com.au/technology/7-eleven-told-to-delete-customers-photos-after-facial-recognition-software-falls-under-privacy-commissioners-scope-c-4236266 |url-status=live |access-date=2026-01-31 |website=7News |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250212011620/https://7news.com.au/technology/7-eleven-told-to-delete-customers-photos-after-facial-recognition-software-falls-under-privacy-commissioners-scope-c-4236266 |archive-date=12 Feb 2025}}</ref>
|7-Eleven was ordered to cease this practice and destroy any collected data.
|
|- valign="top"
|False advertising on JUUL e-cigarettes.
|2021
|7-Eleven was sued for false advertising of the product, JUUL e-cigarettes, for alleging that it was a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes, which prior to 2018, claimed that it contained no nicotine.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Anna |date=2021-10-18 |title=7-Eleven Hit With Class Action for Allegedly Hiding Harmfulness of JUUL Products |url=https://topclassactions.com/lawsuit-settlements/consumer-products/ecigarette/7-eleven-hit-with-class-action-for-allegedly-hiding-harmfulness-of-juul-products/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-01-31 |website=Top Class Actions |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260223010353/https://topclassactions.com/lawsuit-settlements/consumer-products/ecigarette/7-eleven-hit-with-class-action-for-allegedly-hiding-harmfulness-of-juul-products/ |archive-date=23 Feb 2026}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-01-31 |title=JUUL E-cigarettes Sold at 7-Eleven |url=https://truthinadvertising.org/class-action/juul-e-cigarettes-sold-at-7-eleven/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-01-31 |website=Truth in Advertising |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251211213331/https://truthinadvertising.org/class-action/juul-e-cigarettes-sold-at-7-eleven/ |archive-date=11 Dec 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Rizzi |first=Corrado |date=2021-10-18 |title=Class Action Claims 7-Eleven Failed to Warn of Juul E-Cigarette Dangers |url=https://www.classaction.org/news/class-action-claims-7-eleven-failed-to-warn-of-juul-e-cigarette-dangers |url-status=live |access-date=2026-01-31 |website=Class Action |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20211129055212/https://www.classaction.org/news/class-action-claims-7-eleven-failed-to-warn-of-juul-e-cigarette-dangers |archive-date=29 Nov 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Thrasher |first=Tyler |date=2025-09-09 |title=7-Eleven to pay $1.2 million to settle lawsuit over illegal vape sales near DC schools |url=https://www.fox5dc.com/news/7-eleven-pay-1-2-million-settle-lawsuit-over-illegal-vape-sales-near-dc-schools |url-status=live |access-date=2026-01-31 |website=Fox5 Washington DC |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251008065822/https://www.fox5dc.com/news/7-eleven-pay-1-2-million-settle-lawsuit-over-illegal-vape-sales-near-dc-schools |archive-date=8 Oct 2025}}</ref>
|The lawsuit was settled, with 7-Eleven paying $1.2 million and having the company implement a monitoring program.
|
|- valign="top"
|7-Eleven False Advertising on Onion Chips
|2021
|A class action lawsuit alleges 7-Eleven is misleading customers with their product “Yumions” as an “crunchy onion snack”, while only containing small amounts of onions.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Shaak |first=Erin |date=2021-01-12 |title=7-Eleven ‘Yumions’ Packaging Misleads Consumers About Onion Content, Class Action Says |url=https://www.classaction.org/news/7-eleven-yumions-packaging-misleads-consumers-about-onion-content-class-action-says |access-date=2026-01-31 |website=Class Action |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20210811031951/https://www.classaction.org/news/7-eleven-yumions-packaging-misleads-consumers-about-onion-content-class-action-says |archive-date=11 Aug 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-01-31 |title=Yumions Crunchy Onion Snacks |url=https://truthinadvertising.org/class-action/yumions-crunchy-onion-snacks/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-01-31 |website=Truth in Advertising |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251212032659/https://truthinadvertising.org/class-action/yumions-crunchy-onion-snacks/ |archive-date=12 Dec 2025}}</ref>
|The case is still ongoing
|
|- valign="top"
|7-Eleven Collected Biometric Data of customers in Illinois
|2022
|7-Eleven used surveillance system from Clickit to collect biometric data from customers without their knowledge, violating the Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Rizzi |first=Corrado |date=2022-04-26 |title=7-Eleven Hit with Class Action Over Alleged Collection of Biometric Data in Illinois Stores |url=https://www.classaction.org/news/7-eleven-hit-with-class-action-over-alleged-collection-of-biometric-data-in-illinois-stores |url-status=live |access-date=2026-01-31 |website=Class Action |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20240630035934/https://www.classaction.org/news/7-eleven-hit-with-class-action-over-alleged-collection-of-biometric-data-in-illinois-stores |archive-date=30 Jun 2024}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-04-27 |title=7-Eleven Class Action Alleges Retailer Violates Customers’ Biometric Privacy |url=https://topclassactions.com/lawsuit-settlements/privacy/7-eleven-class-action-alleges-retailer-violates-customers-biometric-privacy/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-01-31 |website=Top Class Actions |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20220427163602/https://topclassactions.com/lawsuit-settlements/privacy/7-eleven-class-action-alleges-retailer-violates-customers-biometric-privacy/ |archive-date=27 Apr 2022}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-04-28 |title=7-Eleven Faces Class-Action Suit Over Collection of Biometric Customer Data |url=https://csnews.com/7-eleven-faces-class-action-suit-over-collection-biometric-customer-data |url-status=live |access-date=2026-01-31 |website=Convenience Store News |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250212044337/https://csnews.com/7-eleven-faces-class-action-suit-over-collection-biometric-customer-data |archive-date=12 Feb 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-01-31 |title=Hess et al v. 7-Eleven, Inc. |url=https://dockets.justia.com/docket/illinois/ilndce/1:2022cv02131/414495 |url-status=live |access-date=2026-01-31 |website=Justia Dockets & Findings}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Shah |first=Manish |date=2022-04-25 |title=Hess v. 7-Eleven, Inc. (1:22-cv-02131) |url=https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/63261889/hess-v-7-eleven-inc/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-01-31 |website=Court Listener}}</ref>
|The case was dismissed without prejudice by the plaintiff, however the reason or behind remains unknown.
|
|- valign="top"
|7-Eleven false advertising Wellness Tonic as better alternative to alcohol
|2023
|7-Eleven and the manufacturer, Botanic Tonics, advertised Feel Free Wellness Tonics, as a safe, sober, and healthy alternative to alcohol despite containing kratom, an addictive opioid.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mehorter |first=Kelly |date=2025-04-15 |title=$8.75 Million Botanic Tonics Settlement Reached in Feel Free Kratom Lawsuit |url=https://www.classaction.org/news/8.75-million-botanic-tonics-settlement-reached-in-feel-free-kratom-lawsuit |url-status=live |access-date=2026-01-31 |website=Class Action |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260126154127/https://www.classaction.org/news/8.75-million-botanic-tonics-settlement-reached-in-feel-free-kratom-lawsuit |archive-date=26 Jan 2026}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Avery |first=Brad |date=2023-04-06 |title=Class Action Alleges Feel Free, 7-Eleven Misled Consumers About Addiction Risk |url=https://www.bevnet.com/news/2023/class-action-alleges-feel-free-7-eleven-misled-consumers-about-addiction-risk/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260131234902/https://www.bevnet.com/news/2023/class-action-alleges-feel-free-7-eleven-misled-consumers-about-addiction-risk/ |archive-date=2026-01-31 |access-date=2026-01-31 |website=bevnet}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Hanson |first=Natalie |date=2023-12-21 |title=7-Eleven must face liability claims over sales of a drink containing kratom |url=https://www.courthousenews.com/7-eleven-must-face-liability-claims-for-selling-drink-containing-kratom/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-01-31 |website=Courthouse News Service |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20240711020904/https://www.courthousenews.com/7-eleven-must-face-liability-claims-for-selling-drink-containing-kratom/ |archive-date=11 Jul 2024}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-01-31 |title=Torres v. Botanic Tonics, LLC |url=https://www.courtlistener.com/opinion/9610947/torres-v-botanic-tonics-llc/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://cases.justia.com/federal/district-courts/california/candce/3:2023cv01460/410183/82/0.pdf |archive-date=2023-12-21|website=Court Listener}}</ref>
|The case reached a settlement of $8,750,000, requiring 7-Eleven to add kratom warnings on product labels and advertisements.
|
|- valign="top"
|7-Eleven acquiring an fuel outlet without prior notice
|2023
|7-Eleven violated an 2018 FTC consent order that prohibited acquiring fuel outlets in certain local markets without first notifying Federal Trade Commission to avoid harming competition and increasing fuel prices. 7-Eleven could've faced a maximum penalty of over $77 million.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Graham |first=Victoria |date=2023-12-04 |title=FTC Sues 7-Eleven for Anticompetitive Acquisition in Violation of 2018 Consent Order |url=https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2023/12/ftc-sues-7-eleven-anticompetitive-acquisition-violation-2018-consent-order |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-02 |website=Federal Trade Commissions |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250914024118/https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2023/12/ftc-sues-7-eleven-anticompetitive-acquisition-violation-2018-consent-order |archive-date=14 Sep 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Graham |first=Victoria |date=2025-12-08 |title=7-Eleven to Pay Record $4.5 Million Penalty to Settle FTC Antitrust Order Violation Case |url=https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2025/12/7-eleven-pay-record-45-million-penalty-settle-ftc-antitrust-order-violation-case |url-status=live |access-date=2026-02-02 |website=Federal Trade Commissions |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260120225951/https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2025/12/7-eleven-pay-record-45-million-penalty-settle-ftc-antitrust-order-violation-case |archive-date=20 Jan 2026}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Loder |first=Jessica |date=2023-12-05 |title=7-Eleven could face up to $77M in penalties in FTC lawsuit |url=https://www.cstoredive.com/news/7-eleven-77m-penalties-ftc-lawsuit/701614/ |url-status=live |access-date=2026-01-31 |website=C-Store Dive |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250210045036/https://www.cstoredive.com/news/7-eleven-77m-penalties-ftc-lawsuit/701614/ |archive-date=10 Feb 2025}}</ref>
|The case was settled, with 7-Eleven paying $4.5 million on December 8, 2025.
|
|}
==See also==
*[[QuikTrip]]
*[[Kwik Trip]]
*[[Chevron]]
*[[Shell]]

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]

3CX

2026-03-21T02:57:21Z

2001:4BC9:82B:F663:2205:B7FF:FE00:E700: /* References: */ fix archive date

{{StubNotice}}
[[wikipedia:3CX|3CX, Inc.]], is a software development company and developer of the 3CX Phone System<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last= |title=ENTERPRISE GRADE PHONE SYSTEM |url=https://www.3cx.com/phone-system/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250813032918/https://www.3cx.com/phone-system/ |archive-date=2025-08-13 |access-date=2025-08-13 |website=3cx.com}}</ref> founded in Cyprus in 2005-11-01.

{{CompanyCargo
| Founded = 2005-11-01
| Industry = Telecommunication
| Website = https://www.3cx.com/
| Logo = 3CX logo.svg
| Type = Private
| Description = Founder of 3CX Phone System. Required users to pay a fee for support tickets during an attack which distributed malware to customers.
}}

The 3CX Phone System is a digital [[wikipedia:Private_branch_exchange|private branch exchange]] (PBX) based on the [[wikipedia:Session_Initiation_Protocol|Session Initiation Protocol]] (SIP) standard facilitating calls via either the [[wikipedia:Public_switched_telephone_network|public switched telephone network]] (PSTN) or using [[wikipedia:Voice_over_IP|Voice over Internet Protocol]] (VoIP) services <ref name=":0" />.

In 2023, during a major supply chain attack affecting the 3CX desktop application, the company's public response included engaging the services of Google-owned cybersecurity firm [[wikipedia:Mandiant|Mandiant]]<ref>{{Cite web |last=Lakshmanan |first=Ravie |date=Mar 31, 2023 |title=3CX Supply Chain Attack — Here's What We Know So Far |url=https://thehackernews.com/2023/03/3cx-supply-chain-attack-heres-what-we.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250627055223/https://thehackernews.com/2023/03/3cx-supply-chain-attack-heres-what-we.html |archive-date=June 27, 2025 |access-date=2025-08-12 |website=thehackernews.com}}</ref> and advising customers to uninstall affected versions.

==Controversies==

====Customer and Partner Relations====
The company's CTO, Nick Galea, has been the subject of criticism from some 3CX users and partners for alleged heavy-handed moderation practices and perceived unprofessional conduct in public forums. Multiple users on Reddit have reported being banned from the official 3CX community forums for raising technical concerns or criticizing company policies. <ref>{{Cite web |title=My 3CX Partnership Deleted and All Linked Clients Lost |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/3CX/comments/xev0u5/my_3cx_partnership_deleted_and_all_linked_clients/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20230605093312/https://www.reddit.com/r/3CX/comments/xev0u5/my_3cx_partnership_deleted_and_all_linked_clients/ |archive-date=2023-06-05}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-09-24 |title=Banned from the 3CX Community |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/3CX/comments/xn0ztp/banned_from_the_3cx_community/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250315171811/https://www.reddit.com/r/3CX/comments/xn0ztp/banned_from_the_3cx_community/ |archive-date=2025-03-15 |website=Reddit}}</ref>

====Supply Chain Incident Response====
In March 2023, 3CX was the victim of a high-profile supply chain hack, thought to be the result of a cascade failure starting with the software X_Trader. This attack was linked to an earlier incident perpetrated by North Korean hackers, targeting software company [https://www.marketswiki.com/wiki/Trading_Technologies_International Trading Technologies]. A 3CX employee's PC containing the Trading Technologies App was used by the hackers to compromise their software and distribute malware to consumers. <ref>{{Cite news |last=Greenberg |first=Andy |date=Apr 20, 2023 |title=The Huge 3CX Breach Was Actually 2 Linked Supply Chain Attacks |url=https://www.wired.com/story/3cx-supply-chain-attack-times-two/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250726115243/https://www.wired.com/story/3cx-supply-chain-attack-times-two/ |archive-date=July 26, 2025 |work=Wired |pages=2025-08-12}}</ref><ref name=":1" />

3CX also faced backlash for requiring users to pay a fee when opening support tickets during the breach, which led to further public criticism from system administrators and IT professionals.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=CrowdStrike |date=2023-03-29 |title=// 2023-03-29 // SITUATIONAL AWARENESS // CrowdStrike Tracking Active Intrusion Campaign Targeting 3CX Customers // |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/crowdstrike/comments/125r3uu/20230329_situational_awareness_crowdstrike/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230330190124/https://www.reddit.com/r/crowdstrike/comments/125r3uu/20230329_situational_awareness_crowdstrike/ |archive-date=2023-03-30 |website=reddit}}</ref><blockquote>"I have been in contact with 3CX and their suggestion is to open a support ticket at £75 per incident. Ludicrous." -wars_t (reddit.com) </blockquote>

==References:==
<references />
[[Category:3CX]]

Proton Mail

2026-03-21T02:52:54Z

2001:4BC9:82B:F663:2205:B7FF:FE00:E700: /* References */ fix archive date

{{Stub}}{{ProductCargo|Category=End-to-end encrypted Email service|Company=Proton AG|InProduction=Yes|Logo=Proton Mail logo.svg|ReleaseYear=2014|Website=https://proton.me/mail}}
'''{{Wplink|Proton_Mail|Proton Mail}}''' is a privacy-focused email service based in Switzerland, which has partnered with non-Swiss content delivery networks, such as Radware. Proton Mail is part of the [[Proton]] suite of privacy-focused online services and software which includes Proton VPN, Proton Calendar, Proton Drive, etc.

==False advertising and working with authorities==
Up to 2021, ProtonMail has advertised itself as a private and secure service with the following under "Anonymous email": <blockquote>"No personal information is required to create your secure email account. By default, we do not keep any IP logs which can be linked to your anonymous email account. Your privacy comes first."<ref>{{Cite web |title=Secure email: Proton is free encrypted email. |url=https://proton.me/mail |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210831234120/https://protonmail.com/ |archive-date=2021-08-31 |website=ProtonMail}}</ref> </blockquote>This statement proved to be false, when in September 2021, a member of a French activist group had been using ProtonMail to communicate with other groups. As an investigation was launched involving them, the email provider handed over the user's IP address and other data, including the device they were using.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Lomas |first=Natasha |date=2021-09-06 |title=ProtonMail logged IP address of French activist after order by Swiss authorities |url=https://techcrunch.com/2021/09/06/protonmail-logged-ip-address-of-french-activist-after-order-by-swiss-authorities/ |url-status=live |access-date=2025-11-19 |website=TechCrunch |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260112062019/https://techcrunch.com/2021/09/06/protonmail-logged-ip-address-of-french-activist-after-order-by-swiss-authorities/ |archive-date=12 Jan 2026}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Salter |first=Jim |date=2021-09-07 |title=ProtonMail removed “we do not keep any IP logs” from its privacy policy |url=https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2021/09/privacy-focused-protonmail-provided-a-users-ip-address-to-authorities/ |access-date=2025-11-19 |website=Ars Technica |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251209002537/https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2021/09/privacy-focused-protonmail-provided-a-users-ip-address-to-authorities/ |archive-date=9 Dec 2025}}</ref> The section was changed shortly after getting attention from news outlets and the general public.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Secure email: ProtonMail is free encrypted email. |url=https://proton.me |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210907033644/https://protonmail.com/ |archive-date=2021-09-07 |access-date=2025-11-19 |website=ProtonMail}}</ref> 

===ProtonMail's Response===
ProtonMail responded that it is not required to comply with authorities such as EUROPOL. Although this may be true, in cases of investigations, larger organisations from outside simply use the Swiss government as a middleman to facilitate any request they wish. ProtonMail is not anonymous, and any information will be handed over when requested by the Swiss government, which also cooperates with other investigative authorities, leading to essentially no protection in the event of such an occurrence.{{Citation needed|reason=link below is not for this topic}}

Proton has created video conferencing integrations with Zoom, a non-private platform.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Proton opts for Zoom videoconferencing |url=https://discuss.privacyguides.net/t/proton-opts-for-zoom-videoconferencing/24569 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260217082923/https://discuss.privacyguides.net/t/proton-opts-for-zoom-videoconferencing/24569 |archive-date=17 Feb 2026|access-date=2025-11-20 |website=Privacy Guides Community}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=How to add Zoom meetings to event invitations |url=https://proton.me/support/calendar-zoom |access-date=2025-11-20 |website=Proton |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260215155903/https://proton.me/support/calendar-zoom |archive-date=15 Feb 2026}}</ref> 

==Harsh inactive account policy==
In 2022, ProtonMail announced a policy that entails the [[Inactive account deletion|deletion of inactive accounts]], resulting in major controversy. Many users have criticised the decisions and advocated for nuanced versions of inactive account policies, such as deleting only the email contents of any inactive ProtonMail accounts instead of the accounts themselves, as the latter would reportedly result in major inconvenience for users who used the accounts as multiple-factor authentications for important services, such as banking. It has also been said that the harsh policy will adversely affect those who had good reasons to become inactive for a long time, such as hospitalisation, prison incarceration, and being in totalitarian countries that have prolonged internet shutdowns.<ref>{{Cite web |last=ProtonMail |date=2022-04-14 |title=Protonmail's dormant policy is now in effect. |url=https://old.reddit.com/r/ProtonMail/comments/u3ejjp/protonmails_dormant_policy_is_now_in_effect/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20241218103805/https://old.reddit.com/r/ProtonMail/comments/u3ejjp/protonmails_dormant_policy_is_now_in_effect/ |archive-date=18 Dec 2024|access-date=2025-11-20 |website=Reddit}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-04-14 |title=Protonmail's dormant policy is now in effect. |url=https://old.reddit.com/r/DataHoarder/comments/u3g406/protonmails_dormant_policy_is_now_in_effect/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20221016093816/https://old.reddit.com/r/DataHoarder/comments/u3g406/protonmails_dormant_policy_is_now_in_effect/ |archive-date=16 Oct 2022|access-date=2025-11-20 |website=Reddit}}</ref>

In response, ProtonMail added an exemption, where the inactive account policy would not apply to any accounts that had premium subscriptions, <ref>{{Cite web |title=Update to our inactive account policy |url=https://old.reddit.com/r/ProtonMail/comments/uca15y/update_to_our_inactive_account_policy/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250402195858/https://old.reddit.com/r/ProtonMail/comments/uca15y/update_to_our_inactive_account_policy/ |archive-date=2 Apr 2025|access-date=2025-11-20 |website=Reddit}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Ashwin |first= |date=2022-04-27 |title=ProtonMail will not delete user accounts for inactivity if the user had paid for a subscription at any point |url=https://www.ghacks.net/2022/04/27/protonmail-will-not-delete-inactive-user-accounts-for-former-premium-subscribers/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250316094922/https://www.ghacks.net/2022/04/27/protonmail-will-not-delete-inactive-user-accounts-for-former-premium-subscribers/ |archive-date=16 Mar 2025|access-date=2025-11-20 |website=ghacks.net}}</ref> although the exemption was revoked as of 2024.{{CitationNeeded|reason=any official announcements?}}  ProtonMail accounts created before April 9, 2024, have a two-year grace period before being subject to the policy, as opposed to one year for newer accounts.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Inactive Accounts |url=https://proton.me/support/inactive-accounts |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260131180800/https://proton.me/support/inactive-accounts |archive-date=31 Jan 2026|access-date=2025-11-20 |website=Proton}}</ref> In some cases, users have reported success in recovering their inactive accounts after being locked under the policy.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Account is no longer available due to inactivity |url=https://old.reddit.com/r/ProtonMail/comments/1i7gbd7/account_is_no_longer_available_due_to_inactivity/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260222223819/https://old.reddit.com/r/ProtonMail/comments/1i7gbd7/account_is_no_longer_available_due_to_inactivity/ |archive-date=22 Feb 2026|access-date=2025-11-20 |website=Reddit}}</ref>

As of 2025, many users continue to voice their concerns regarding the inactive account policy, advocating for sensible measures such as deleting only the contents of inactive accounts while sparing the accounts themselves.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Inactive account policy - keep account when deleting data {{!}} How can we improve Proton? |url=https://protonmail.uservoice.com/forums/945460-general-ideas/suggestions/48235556-inactive-account-policy-keep-account-when-deleti |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260212110648/https://protonmail.uservoice.com/forums/945460-general-ideas/suggestions/48235556-inactive-account-policy-keep-account-when-deleti |archive-date=2026-02-12 |access-date=2025-11-20 |website=protonmail.uservoice.com}}</ref>

The Proton team has stated on Reddit that the inactive account policy aims to "manage their resources in a sustainable way". In the comments, it was noted that retaining the accounts themselves indefinitely and only purging their contents would not noticeably increase operating costs compared to deleting entire accounts, given that login information is all that would have to be retained. ProtonMail also does not allow registering email accounts with the same address as deleted email accounts to prevent impersonation, which would be possible only because it retains the deleted email addresses in its records.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-04-09 |title=Proton's New Policy for Free Inactive Accounts |url=https://old.reddit.com/r/ProtonMail/comments/1bzt1ka/protons_new_policy_for_free_inactive_accounts/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250128155913/https://old.reddit.com/r/ProtonMail/comments/1bzt1ka/protons_new_policy_for_free_inactive_accounts/ |archive-date=28 Jan 2025|access-date=2025-11-20 |website=Reddit}}</ref> 

==Data portability==
Until around 2023, there was no way for users without a paid subscription to create local backups of all of their emails at once (an example of [[data lock-in]]). Paying users could utilise the Proton Mail Bridge to download their emails via the IMAP protocol using an external client, such as Thunderbird or Outlook. In contrast, free users were limited to downloading each email individually, making it impractical for backup purposes.<ref>{{Cite web |title=How to export and import emails |url=https://protonmail.com/support/knowledge-base/export-import-emails/ |url-status=unfit |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20220426212143/https://protonmail.com/support/knowledge-base/export-import-emails/ |archive-date=26 Apr 2022|access-date=2025-11-20 |website=ProtonMail}}</ref>

Since approximately 2023, Proton Technologies has offered an export tool that anyone can utilise.<ref>{{Cite web |title=How to export and restore emails using the Proton Mail Export Tool |url=https://proton.me/support/proton-mail-export-tool |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260131212130/https://proton.me/support/proton-mail-export-tool |archive-date=31 Jan 2026|access-date=2025-11-20 |website=Proton}}</ref>

==References==
<references />
[[Category:Proton]]

Forced arbitration

2026-03-21T02:47:51Z

2001:4BC9:82B:F663:2205:B7FF:FE00:E700: /* References */ fix archive date

'''[[wikipedia:Arbitration|Forced arbitration]]''' is a practice in which businesses can require their customers to resolve disputes through arbitration, instead of a traditional court system. Per Wikipedia: "Arbitration is a formal method of dispute resolution involving a third party neutral who makes a binding decision."

==Origins==
In 2011<ref>''American Express v Italian Colors Restaurant'', 133 S. Ct. 2403 (2013); ''AT&T Mobility LLC v. Concepcion'', 131 S.

Ct. 1740 (2011).</ref> and 2013<ref>{{Cite web |date=Apr 16, 2019 |title=Fact Sheet: Cases Tossed Out of Court Because of Forced Arbitration Causes and Class Action Bans |url=https://www.centerjd.org/content/fact-sheet-cases-tossed-out-court-because-forced-arbitration-causes-and-class-action-bans#_ftn1 |access-date=Feb 12, 2026 |website=Center for Justice & Democracy at New York Law School |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260223043456/https://www.centerjd.org/content/fact-sheet-cases-tossed-out-court-because-forced-arbitration-causes-and-class-action-bans#_ftn1 |archive-date=23 Feb 2026}}</ref> cases received rulings from the ''Supreme Court of the United States'' wherein corporations can strip individuals of their constitutional right to civil jury trial and force them into private, corporate-controlled arbitration systems to resolve disputes. These rulings also stated that companies have the unilateral right to ban class actions by inserting class action “waivers” into these arbitration clauses.

In 2018, the scope of these decisions were expanded by ''Epic Systems Corp. v. Lewis'',<ref>''Epic Systems Corp. v. Lewis'', 138 S. Ct. 1612 (2018).</ref> wherein workers whose employment contracts contain class action waivers was decided to not violate legal rights granted to workers by the ''National Labor Relations Act''. This decision impacted millions of employment contracts,<ref>{{Cite news |last=Liptak |first=Adam |date=Oct 2, 2017 |title=Supreme Court Divided on Arbitration for Workplace Cases |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2017/10/02/us/politics/supreme-court-workplace-arbitration.html |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250315134159/https://www.nytimes.com/2017/10/02/us/politics/supreme-court-workplace-arbitration.html |archive-date=15 Mar 2025|access-date=Feb 12, 2026 |work=The New York Times}}</ref> and analysis by the ''National Law Journal'' has shown that the employment cases, most of which were class actions, “broke in favor of the defendant.” At least 50% of these cases compelled plaintiffs to arbitrate.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Mulvaney |first=Erin |date=Feb 28, 2019 |title='Epic' Impact: How a Major SCOTUS Decision in Favor of Arbitration Is Shaping the Landscape for Workplace Lawsuits |url=https://www.law.com/nationallawjournal/2019/02/28/epic-impact-how-a-major-scotus-decision-in-favor-of-arbitration-is-shaping-the-landscape-for-workplace-lawsuits/?slreturn=20260212061628 |journal=National Law Journal |via=Law.com |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260223043531/https://www.law.com/nationallawjournal/2019/02/28/epic-impact-how-a-major-scotus-decision-in-favor-of-arbitration-is-shaping-the-landscape-for-workplace-lawsuits/?slreturn=20260222233527 |archive-date=23 Feb 2026}}</ref> 

==How it works==
Businesses will typically add an arbitration clause to their [[Terms of Service]] or Terms of Use. This clause generally outlines how disputes are handled between the consumer and the business. A good example of a typical arbitration clause can be found in [[Instagram]]'s Terms of Use, which, as of January 6, 2025, is under Section 7.4 - How We Will Handle Disputes:<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=Terms of Use |url=https://help.instagram.com/581066165581870/ |url-status=live |access-date=4 May 2025 |website=[[Instagram]] |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260222100652/https://help.instagram.com/581066165581870/ |archive-date=22 Feb 2026}}</ref><blockquote>"Except as provided below, you and we agree that any cause of action, legal claim, or dispute between you and us arising out of or related to these Terms or Instagram ("claim(s)") must be resolved by arbitration on an individual basis. [[Class action|Class actions]] and class arbitrations are not permitted; you and we may bring a claim only on your own behalf and cannot seek relief that would affect other Instagram users."</blockquote>Currently, in the United States, arbitration clauses such as this one are legal under the [[Federal Arbitration Act]] (FAA).<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |date=30 Jul 1947 |title=TITLE 9—ARBITRATION |url=https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/USCODE-2019-title9/html/USCODE-2019-title9.htm |url-status=live |access-date=4 May 2025 |website=www.govinfo.gov |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260219114958/https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/USCODE-2019-title9/html/USCODE-2019-title9.htm |archive-date=19 Feb 2026}}</ref> Efforts have been made, however, to prohibit forced arbitration, most notably the [[Forced Arbitration Injustice Repeal]] (FAIR) Act of 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |date=27 Apr 2023 |title=S.1376 - Forced Arbitration Injustice Repeal Act |url=https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/1376 |url-status=live |access-date=4 May 2025 |website=www.congress.gov |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251110183101/https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/1376 |archive-date=10 Nov 2025}}</ref>

The [[wikipedia:United_Nations|United Nations]] has published a guideline for consumer protections in 2016, which lists the following under IV 11(c):<ref>{{Cite web |date=2016 |title=United Nations Guidelines for Consumer Protection |url=https://unctad.org/system/files/official-document/ditccplpmisc2016d1_en.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=4 May 2025 |website=unctad.org |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260222170649/https://unctad.org/system/files/official-document/ditccplpmisc2016d1_en.pdf |archive-date=22 Feb 2026}}</ref><blockquote>"Businesses should provide complete, accurate and not misleading information regarding the goods and services, terms, conditions, applicable fees and final costs to enable consumers to take informed decisions. Businesses should ensure easy access to this information, especially to the key terms and conditions"</blockquote>

==Why it is a problem==

===Revocation of rights===
The practice of forced arbitration is one that is designed to revoke the rights of the consumer. In this case, the consumer's right to sue or participate in a [[class action]] against a business. Instead, the consumer must work with an arbiter of the businesses' choosing behind closed doors to resolve claims, which is widely believed to result in biased outcomes.

====Bypassing of constitutional rights====
Due to the out of place nature of arbitration, various rights granted by the US constitution and its amendments are entirely bypassed.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Zanville |first=Stuart |date=Sep 1, 2015 |title=Forced Arbitration |url=https://www.advocatemagazine.com/article/2015-september/forced-arbitration |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200921050552/https://www.advocatemagazine.com/article/2015-september/forced-arbitration |archive-date=Sep 21, 2020 |access-date=Mar 5, 2025 |work=Advocate Magazine}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=J. Mann |first=Kimberly |date=1997 |title=Constitutional Challenges to Court-Ordered Arbitration |url=https://ir.law.fsu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1454&context=lr |url-status=live |access-date=4 May 2025 |website=ir.law.fsu.edu |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250510155224/https://ir.law.fsu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1454&context=lr |archive-date=10 May 2025}}</ref><ref>Brunet, Edward, Arbitration and Constitutional Rights (June 24, 1992). North Carolina Law Review, Vol. 71, pp. 81-120, 1992, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2284464</ref>

The 7th amendment,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Constitution of the United States Seventh Amendment |url=https://constitution.congress.gov/constitution/amendment-7/ |url-status=live |access-date=4 May 2025 |website=constitution.congress.gov |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260127011142/https://constitution.congress.gov/constitution/amendment-7/ |archive-date=27 Jan 2026}}</ref> also known as the right to a trial by jury, is bypassed via forced arbitration. Additionally, the 6th amendment,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Constitution of the United States Sixth Amendment |url=https://constitution.congress.gov/constitution/amendment-6/ |url-status=live |access-date=4 May 2025 |website=constitution.congress.gov |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260208145033/https://constitution.congress.gov/constitution/amendment-6/ |archive-date=8 Feb 2026}}</ref> also known as the right to a speedy trial, is also bypassed by arbitration since arbitrated cases can take excessively longer than traditional public trials,<ref>{{Cite web |date=12 Sep 2024 |title=How Long Does Arbitration Take? A Closer Look |url=https://adrtimes.com/how-long-does-arbitration-take/ |url-status=live |access-date=4 May 2025 |website=adrtimes.com |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251027060808/https://adrtimes.com/how-long-does-arbitration-take/ |archive-date=27 Oct 2025}}</ref> especially when lawsuits that could have been filed under class action, end up being broken up into hundreds of individually arbitrated cases, such as what has happened with ''Bucher Law PLLC Vs. Valve Inc.''<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bucher |first=Will |title=Steam Case Explained |url=https://www.bucherlawfirm.com/steam-case-explained |url-status=live |access-date=4 May 2025 |website=BUCHER LAW PLLC |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260220085211/https://www.bucherlawfirm.com/steam-case-explained |archive-date=20 Feb 2026}}
</ref>

===Inconvenient opt-out procedure===
Arbitration is often made inconvenient for users to opt-out of. Instead of giving users the option to do so at sign-up digitally, most businesses will require users to send a handwritten letter within 30 days of their sign-up to opt-out of arbitration. This type of opt-out clause can also be seen in Instagram's Terms of Use:<ref name=":0" /><blockquote>"You can opt out of this provision within 30 days of the date that you agreed to these Terms. To opt out, you must send your name, residence address, username, email address or phone number you use for your Instagram account, and a clear statement that you want to opt out of this arbitration agreement, and you must send them here:" [Address redacted]</blockquote>

This practice is similar to how gyms will often require members to travel to their location or send snail mail to cancel a membership, while an online system could easily be put in its place.

===Conflict of interest===
Companies track performance of arbitrators over time, and as such, are able to pick arbitrators that lean towards the industry rather than the consumer.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Seru |first=Amit |date=Feb 2023 |title=Tipping the scales: Balancing consumer arbitration cases. |url=https://siepr.stanford.edu/publications/policy-brief/tipping-scales-balancing-consumer-arbitration-cases |url-status=live |access-date=4 May 2025 |website=Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251021045031/https://siepr.stanford.edu/publications/policy-brief/tipping-scales-balancing-consumer-arbitration-cases |archive-date=21 Oct 2025}}</ref> While both the consumer and company theoretically have some control over the selection of the arbitrator, the company generally has an information advantage in the selection process. Furthermore, individual arbitrators have a long-term financial incentive to bias their rulings in favor of corporations, as the corporation is much more likely to become a "repeat customer" than the consumer. In extreme cases, entire arbitration firms may have a material conflict of interest.<ref>{{Cite web |date=20 Jul 2009 |title=NAF Announcement — Out of Consumer Arbitration |url=https://indisputably.org/2009/07/naf-announcement-out-of-consumer-arbitration/ |url-status=live |access-date=4 May 2025 |website=indisputably.org |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251117220857/http://indisputably.org/2009/07/naf-announcement-out-of-consumer-arbitration/ |archive-date=17 Nov 2025}}</ref>

===Bricking until agreement===
[[File:BadPiggiesArbitration.png|thumb|An example of forced arbitration, where the user has to agree to arbitration, regardless of if the software was previously installed on their device]]
For digital software in particular, they can be retroactively amended to require the user to agree to forced arbitration, while blocking the user from accessing the content they paid for until they agree to this binding arbitration. In the case of the mobile game ''Bad Piggies'', published by [[Rovio]], regardless of if the end user chose to not update their game or had the game previously installed since before the publisher instituted arbitration, said user is incapable of playing the game until they agree to binding arbitration.<ref>{{Cite web |last=u/JamesTDG |date=Oct 30, 2025 |title=r/badpiggies - God damn it, Rovio, you put arbitration into the game I ALREADY PAID FOR |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/badpiggies/comments/1oklx98/god_damn_it_rovio_you_put_arbitration_into_the/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web3x&utm_name=web3xcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button |access-date=Oct 30, 2025 |website=Reddit |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260223043639/https://old.reddit.com/r/badpiggies/comments/1oklx98/god_damn_it_rovio_you_put_arbitration_into_the/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web3x&utm_name=web3xcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button |archive-date=23 Feb 2026}}</ref>

==Examples==
''Main article: [[List of products and services with forced arbitration]]''

Some examples of arbitration clauses in terms and conditions include:

*Bandcamp Terms of Service, as of 2025-10-20. In addition, users in countries where forced arbitration is not allowed cannot use the service: "Use of the Service is not authorized in any jurisdiction that does not give effect to all provisions of these Terms of Use, including without limitation, this section."<ref>{{Cite web |title=Bandcamp Terms of Use |url=https://bandcamp.com/terms_of_use |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251013161152/https://bandcamp.com/terms_of_use |archive-date=2025-10-13 |access-date=2025-10-20 |website=Bandcamp}}</ref>
*CNN Terms of Service, as of 2025-10-13 "14. CLASS ACTION AND JURY TRIAL WAIVER" <ref>{{Cite web |date=May 12, 2025 |title=CNN Terms Of Use |url=https://www.cnn.com/terms0 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251014030156/https://www.cnn.com/terms0 |archive-date=2025-10-14 |access-date=2025-10-13 |website=[[CNN]]}}</ref>
*Indeed Terms of Service, as of 2025-08-22 - Section D: General Terms for All Users - 12. Arbitration Agreement<ref>{{Cite web |title=Terms of Service |url=https://www.indeed.com/legal#d12 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250825081104/https://www.indeed.com/legal#d12 |archive-date=2025-08-25 |access-date=2025-09-02 |website=[[Indeed]]}}</ref>
*Instagram Terms of Use - Section 7.4 - How We Will Handle Disputes<ref name=":0" />
*Itch.io Terms of Service Section 15. Class Action Waiver<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |date=2023-04-15 |title=itch.io Terms of Service |url=https://itch.io/docs/legal/terms |website=Itch.io |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260221145924/https://itch.io/docs/legal/terms |archive-date=21 Feb 2026}}</ref> does not force arbitration, but still seeks to revoke rights to participate in class action or collective arbitration proceedings.
*Powell's Books - Has forced arbitration clause in their Term of Use.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-05-30 |title=Terms of Use {{!}} Powell's Books |url=https://www.powells.com/info/terms-of-use |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250528215842/https://www.powells.com/info/terms-of-use |archive-date=2025-05-28 |access-date=2025-05-30 |website=Powell's Books}}</ref>
*Section 13.1. Binding arbitration agreement and class action waiver, of [[Protonmail|Proton]]'s Terms of Service, says " Please read this section and the class action waiver section carefully – it may significantly affect your legal rights, including your right to file a lawsuit in court and to have a jury hear your claims. It contains procedures for mandatory binding arbitration and a class action waiver."<ref>{{Cite web |date=21 Jan 2025 |title=Terms of Service |url=https://proton.me/legal/terms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250310210512/https://proton.me/nl/legal/terms |archive-date=10 Mar 2025 |access-date=4 May 2025 |website=Proton}}</ref>
*[[Sony]] PlayStation Network Terms of Service - Section 14 - Binding Individual Arbitration<ref>{{Cite web |title=PLAYSTATION NETWORK TERMS OF SERVICE AND USER AGREEMENT |url=https://www.playstation.com/en-us/legal/psn-terms-of-service/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241216114722/https://www.playstation.com/en-us/legal/psn-terms-of-service/ |archive-date=16 Dec 2024 |access-date=4 May 2025 |website=[[PlayStation]]}}</ref>
*[[Roku]], in March of 2024, prompted a pop-up on its devices for the tv owners to accept new terms of use, which included preventing "mass arbitration" from multiple plantiffs, before being able to use their devices. Opting out can be done by mail, but only after accepting the agreement shown on the TV.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Roku Channel Terms of Use |url=https://docs.roku.com/published/therokuchannel-userstermsandconditions/en/us |website=Roku |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260212025217/https://docs.roku.com/published/therokuchannel-userstermsandconditions/en/us |archive-date=12 Feb 2026}}</ref>
*[[Spotify]]'s End User Agreement, since 2015, contains a Mandatory Arbitration Agreement and Class Action Waiver<ref>{{Cite web | title=Spotify Terms of Use |url=https://www.spotify.com/us/legal/end-user-agreement/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250901121247/https://www.spotify.com/us/legal/end-user-agreement/#6-problems-and-disputes |archive-date=1 Sep 2025 |access-date=5 Sep 2025 |website=[[Spotify]]}}</ref>
*[[Ticketmaster]] Terms of Use - Section 17 - Mandatory Arbitration Agreement and Class Action Waiver<ref>{{Cite web |title=Mandatory Arbitration Agreement and Class Action Waiver |url=https://help.ticketmaster.com/hc/en-us/articles/10468830739345-Terms-of-Use |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250105150022/https://help.ticketmaster.com/hc/en-us/articles/10468830739345-Terms-of-Use#section17 |archive-date=5 Jan 2025 |access-date=4 May 2025 |website=[[Ticketmaster]]}}</ref>
*Wayfair uses forced arbitration language in the Legal Disputes section of their Terms of Use.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Terms of Use |url=https://www.wayfair.com/terms?section=terms-of-use |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241025165417/https://www.wayfair.com/terms?section=terms-of-use |archive-date=25 Oct 2024 |access-date=6 Nov 2025 |website=[[Wayfair]]}}</ref> On 6 November 2025, the company emailed account holders notifying them of a change to the Legal Disputes section, and stating "You do not have to do anything to accept the updated Terms. Your continued use of our websites, apps or any of our services, including your account, indicate your acceptance of the updated Terms."
*Western Digital - Has a forced-arbitration clause in the warranty for a ST500DM002-1BD142 hard drive. Clause 1, section "C". (And possibly other products.) <ref>{{Cite web |title=Warranty {{!}} Western Digital |url=https://consumerrights.wiki/File:WD-HDD-Warranty.pdf}} ([https://web.archive.org/web/20260223043708/https://consumerrights.wiki/w/File:WD-HDD-Warranty.pdf Archived])</ref>
*Yahoo Terms of Service - Section 14.2.b "'''BINDING ARBITRATION AGREEMENT'''" <ref>{{Cite web |title=Yahoo Terms of Service {{!}} Yahoo |url=https://legal.yahoo.com/us/en/yahoo/terms/otos/index.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250315082242/https://legal.yahoo.com/us/en/yahoo/terms/otos/index.html |archive-date=2025-03-15 |access-date=2025-03-15 |website=Yahoo}}</ref>
*Zenimax Media (Bethesda) has an arbitration agreement that can only be opted out of within 30 days, ''by mail''.<ref>{{Cite web |title=ZeniMax Terms of Service |url=https://www.zenimax.com/en/legal/terms-of-service |access-date=2025-05-31 |website=ZeniMax Media |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251231215938/https://www.zenimax.com/en/legal/terms-of-service |archive-date=31 Dec 2025}}</ref>
*[[Zoom]]'s Terms of Service, Section 27.1, says: "You and Zoom agree that any dispute or claim between you and Zoom arising out of or relating to this Agreement or the Services (a “Dispute”), including any related software, hardware, integrations, advertising or marketing communications, your account, or any aspects of your relationship or transactions with Zoom, will be resolved by binding arbitration, rather than in court."<ref>{{Cite web |date=11 Aug 2023 |title=Zoom Terms of Service |url=https://www.zoom.com/it/trust/terms/?cms_guid=false&lang=null |url-status=live |access-date=4 May 2025 |website=[[Zoom]] |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251021031940/https://www.zoom.com/it/trust/terms/?cms_guid=false&lang=null |archive-date=21 Oct 2025}}</ref>

==Legal cases==
Many cases, often class actions, were turned away because of forced arbitration clauses, below is an incomplete list of consumer protection cases shut down by forced arbitraton.
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Case name
!Year
!Summary
!Related article
|-
|'''''Clemins v. GE Money Bank, No. 11-CV-00210, 2012 WL 5868659'''''
|2012
|[TBA]
|
|-
|'''''Jabbari v. Wells Fargo & Co.'', No. 15-CV-02159-VC (N.D. Cal. 2017).'''
|2017
|In 2017, Wells Fargo settled with many of its customers whose credit scores were harmed after thousands of bank employees opened as many as 3.5 million fake checking and credit card accounts in customers’ names to meet the company’s aggressive sales goals. Yet for years, the company had forced complaining customers into arbitration and just a few months before the bank agreed to settle this case, it tried to kill the case by forcing defrauded customers to arbitrate.
|
|-
|'''''G.G. v. Valve Corp., No. 2:16cv01941, 2017 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 50640'''''
|2017
|[TBA] - Lawsuit against valve over CS:GO loot boxes being gambling, compelled into arbitration
|
|-
|'''''Gutierrez v. Wells Fargo Bank, NA'', 889 F.3d 1230'''
|2018
|From 2008 to 2009 across various class actions, Wells Fargo was abusing its forced arbitration clause to combat legal cases wherein the company unlawfully charged overdraft fees.
|
|-
|'''''DeNicolo v. The Hertz Corp'', No. 19-210'''
|2019
|[TBA]
|
|}

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Common license terms]]
[[Category:Theme]]

Mozilla

2026-03-21T02:37:32Z

2001:4BC9:82B:F663:2205:B7FF:FE00:E700: 1. Remove category companies 2. fix numeric author

{{Incomplete}}
{{CompanyCargo
|Description=American free software developer known for Firefox and Thunderbird.
|Founded=1998
|Industry=Computing
|Logo=Mozilla logo 2024.png
|ParentCompany=Mozilla Foundation
|Type=Non-profit
|Website=https://www.mozilla.org/
}}
'''{{Wplink|Mozilla}}''' is a {{Wplink|free software}}<nowiki> community which develops, publishes and supports open-source software. The community is supported institutionally by the {{Wplink|Nonprofit organization|non-profit]] </nowiki>{{Wplink|Mozilla Foundation}} and its tax-paying subsidiary, the {{Wplink|Mozilla Corporation}}.

==Consumer impact summary==
{{Ph-C-CIS}}

===Mozilla Manifesto===
Mozilla has published the community Manifesto, with 10 key principles:<ref>{{Cite web |author= |title=The Mozilla Manifesto |url=https://www.mozilla.org/en-US/about/manifesto/details/ |website=Mozilla |date= |access-date=1 Mar 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251223055636/https://www.mozilla.org/en-US/about/manifesto/details/ |archive-date=23 Dec 2025}}</ref>
<blockquote>#The internet is an integral part of modern life—a key component in education, communication, collaboration, business, entertainment and society as a whole.
#The internet is a global public resource that must remain open and accessible.
#The internet must enrich the lives of individual human beings.
#Individuals’ security and privacy on the internet are fundamental and must not be treated as optional.
#Individuals must have the ability to shape the internet and their own experiences on the internet.
#The effectiveness of the internet as a public resource depends upon interoperability (protocols, data formats, content), innovation and decentralized participation worldwide.
#Free and open source software promotes the development of the internet as a public resource.
#Transparent community-based processes promote participation, accountability and trust.
#Commercial involvement in the development of the internet brings many benefits; a balance between commercial profit and public benefit is critical.
#Magnifying the public benefit aspects of the internet is an important goal, worthy of time, attention and commitment.</blockquote>

==Incidents==
This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:{{FULLPAGENAME}}|{{PAGENAME}} category]].

===Mr Robot promotional web extension (''2017'')===
In December 2017 Mozilla, in collaboration with the Mr Robot team, created and included by default a web extension in [[Firefox]] called Looking Glass.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |author= |title=Mozilla addressing the Looking glass incident |url=https://blog.mozilla.org/en/products/firefox/retrospective-looking-glass/ |website=Mozilla |date=30 Jan 2018 |access-date=1 Mar 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250331150343/https://blog.mozilla.org/en/products/firefox/retrospective-looking-glass/ |archive-date=31 Mar 2025}}</ref> While the extension was disabled by default, many users were confused and worried to discover a unknown extension installed in their browser with a cryptic description "MY REALITY IS JUST DIFFERENT THAN YOURS".<ref>{{Cite web |author=Beer_Doctor |title=What is Looking Glass. |url=https://old.reddit.com/r/firefox/comments/7jh9rv/what_is_looking_glass/ |website=[[Reddit]] |date=13 Dec 2017 |access-date=1 Mar 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20230610080325/https://old.reddit.com/r/firefox/comments/7jh9rv/what_is_looking_glass/ |archive-date=10 Jun 2023}}</ref> This description was later expanded to include references to Mozilla's collaboration.<ref>{{Cite web |author=gregglind |title=v1.0.4, fixes ui, changes id, expanded description. |url=https://github.com/mozilla/addon-wr/commit/21ff53d2d5baab591d29b4ea5847d74cb6901b2c |website=GitHub |date=14 Dec 2017 |access-date=1 Mar 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250312155431/https://github.com/mozilla/addon-wr/commit/21ff53d2d5baab591d29b4ea5847d74cb6901b2c |archive-date=12 Mar 2025}}</ref>

When activated, the extension executes code on all websites visited by the user, searching for all words matching a list. Every match is then wrapped in HTML span tags,<ref>{{Cite web |author=gregglind |title=Looking Glass extension injecting HTML |url=https://github.com/mozilla/addon-wr/blob/da464ac8f1c3b089405ca96fc68b999d2b624ef4/addon/webextension/content-script.js#L27 |website=GitHub |date=12 Dec 2017 |access-date=1 Mar 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250708193135/https://github.com/mozilla/addon-wr/blob/da464ac8f1c3b089405ca96fc68b999d2b624ef4/addon/webextension/content-script.js |archive-date=8 Jul 2025}}</ref> and tooltips are injected to be displayed when the user hovers over these matches. CSS code is injected to make the words appear upside down and the tooltips work.<ref>{{Cite web |author=gregglind |title=Looking Glass extension injecting CSS |url=https://github.com/mozilla/addon-wr/blob/da464ac8f1c3b089405ca96fc68b999d2b624ef4/addon/webextension/background.js#L78 |website=GitHub |date=12 Dec 2017 |access-date=1 Mar 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250708193126/https://github.com/mozilla/addon-wr/blob/da464ac8f1c3b089405ca96fc68b999d2b624ef4/addon/webextension/background.js |archive-date=8 Jul 2025}}</ref> Also three specific websites did have their headers changed to have a value "x-1057" injected.

While the extension could on rare occasion break some website with the HTML and CSS injection, it did not do anything malicious or dangerous. The extension was not collecting any personal information at all, but Mozilla admitted it had made a mistake in its response addressing the issue:<ref name=":1" />
<blockquote>'''A SHIELD study must be designed to answer a specific question.''' 

We evaluated Looking Glass based on whether or not it upheld user privacy. Since it did not collect any data, we felt that it was safe. In retrospect, not capturing data was a strong indicator that this was not a good SHIELD study candidate, so we’re making sure we’re going to specifically evaluate future studies based on this criteria to ensure that we don’t repeat our mistake.</blockquote>

===Anonym acquisition (''June 2024'')===
In June 2024, Mozilla became an advertiser by acquiring Anonym, a company claiming to be a privacy-preserving digital advertiser, potentially going against its mission of being a proponent of privacy.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Chambers |first=Laura |title=Introducing Anonym: Raising the Bar for Privacy-Preserving Digital Advertising |url=https://blog.mozilla.org/en/mozilla/mozilla-anonym-raising-the-bar-for-privacy-preserving-digital-advertising/ |website=Mozilla |date=16 Jun 2024 |access-date=1 Mar 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20240617084245/https://blog.mozilla.org/en/mozilla/mozilla-anonym-raising-the-bar-for-privacy-preserving-digital-advertising/ |archive-date=17 Jun 2024}}</ref>

===Privacy-preserving attribution (''July 2024'')===
Privacy-preserving attribution (PPA) is an experimental feature introduced in Firefox version 128, designed to help advertising sites measure the performance of their ads while maintaining user privacy. It is marketed as an alternative method for performing attribution without relying on online tracking of users' browsing activity, which is incompatible with privacy. The functionality is explained on the Mozilla support page as follows:<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |author= |title=Privacy-Preserving Attribution |url=https://support.mozilla.org/en-US/kb/privacy-preserving-attribution#w_how-can-i-disable-ppa |website=Mozilla |date=2024 |access-date=1 Mar 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20240617221145/https://support.mozilla.org/en-US/kb/privacy-preserving-attribution#w_how-can-i-disable-ppa |archive-date=17 Jun 2024}}</ref>
<blockquote>#Websites that show you ads can ask Firefox to remember these ads. When this happens, Firefox stores an “impression” which contains a little bit of information about the ad, including a destination website.
#If you visit the destination website and do something that the website considers to be important enough to count (a “conversion”), that website can ask Firefox to generate a report. The destination website specifies what ads it is interested in.
#Firefox creates a report based on what the website asks, but does not give the result to the website. Instead, Firefox encrypts the report and anonymously submits it using the Distributed Aggregation Protocol (DAP) to an “aggregation service”.
#Your results are combined with many similar reports by the aggregation service. The destination website periodically receives a summary of the reports. The summary includes noise that provides differential privacy.</blockquote>

Browsing activity information is not sent to anyone, not even Mozilla. Users with PPA enabled, however, must rely solely on the company to honor principle number 4 in its Manifesto:<ref name=":0" />
<blockquote>PPA does not involve sending information about your browsing activities to anyone. This includes Mozilla and our DAP partner (ISRG). Advertisers only receive aggregate information that answers basic questions about the effectiveness of their advertising.</blockquote>

This feature does not allow users to make an informed decision and choose whether to opt in or not, as it is enabled by default and requires that the user actively opt out.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Naprys |first=Ernestas |title=Firefox’s new data collection feature sparks user backlash: here’s how to disable it |url=https://cybernews.com/privacy/firefox-data-collection-feature-sparks-backlash/ |website=cybernews |date=16 Jul 2024 |access-date=1 Mar 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20240716125552/https://cybernews.com/privacy/firefox-data-collection-feature-sparks-backlash/ |archive-date=16 Jul 2024}}</ref> This goes against principle number 8 of the Manifesto.

===Removing the "We don't sell your data" promise (''February 2025'')===
In February 2025, Mozilla started to delete references to their "We don't sell your data" promise from the source code, as first reported on [https://www.haiku-os.org/ Haiku operating system] by developer ''waddlesplash'' on the forum thread for their Firefox/Iceweasel port.<ref>{{Cite web |author=waddlesplash |title=Iceweasel: Telemetry acceptible for Firefox trademarks? |url=https://discuss.haiku-os.org/t/iceweasel-telemetry-acceptible-for-firefox-trademarks/16106/51 |website=Haiku OS |date=27 Feb 2025 |access-date=1 Mar 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250708193121/https://discuss.haiku-os.org/t/iceweasel-telemetry-acceptible-for-firefox-trademarks/16106/51 |archive-date=8 Jul 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |author1=Zhu |first=Jingwen |author2=maureenlholland |date=25 Feb 2025 |title=Tos copy updates (fix #16016) |url=https://github.com/mozilla/bedrock/commit/d459addab846d8144b61939b7f4310eb80c5470e |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260111124524/https://github.com/mozilla/bedrock/commit/d459addab846d8144b61939b7f4310eb80c5470e |archive-date=11 Jan 2026 |access-date=1 Mar 2026 |website=GitHub}}</ref>

They also switched the wording from "The best privacy" to "Always protected".

===Introducing TOS for Firefox (''February 2025'')===
{{Main|Mozilla introduces TOS to Firefox}}

In February 2025 Mozilla introduced [[terms of use]] (TOS) for the Firefox browser for the first time as well as an updated [[privacy policy]]. The new privacy policy has caused concern among the browser's user base, revolving around how the section that describes the rights Mozilla has over their data is phrased.

==Alternatives==
There are other browsers using the same browser engine as Firefox, but with the telemetry and data gathering removed and privacy-friendly preferences enabled by default. For desktop operating systems, these include [https://librewolf.net/ LibreWolf], [https://mullvad.net/browser Mullvad Browser] and the [https://www.torproject.org/download/ Tor Browser]. On Android, [https://f-droid.org/packages/org.mozilla.fennec_fdroid/ Fennec] is available through the F-Droid store.

Completely free alternative browsers are currently under active development, some of which show promise to become viable, truly independent, open-source browser engines in the foreseeable future. These include the browser initiated by SerenityOS creator Andreas Kling.

As for Thunderbird, some open-source soft forks such as [https://www.betterbird.eu/ BetterBird] are available.

==Products==
*Thunderbird (2003—Present)
*[[Firefox]] (2004—Present)
*Pocket (2017—2025)<ref name="shutdown">{{Cite web |author= |title=Investing in what moves the internet forward |url=https://blog.mozilla.org/en/mozilla/building-whats-next/ |website=Mozilla |date=22 May 2025 |access-date=20 Aug 2025 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250730024535/https://blog.mozilla.org/en/mozilla/building-whats-next/ |archive-date=30 Jul 2025}}</ref>
*Fakespot (2021—2025)<ref name="shutdown" />

==See also==
{{Ph-C-SA}}

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]

Anthropic

2026-03-21T02:26:36Z

2001:4BC9:82B:F663:2205:B7FF:FE00:E700:

{{StubNotice}}{{CompanyCargo
|Founded = 2021
|Industry = Artificial Intelligence
|Description = American AI startup founded in 2021 commonly known for their family of LLMs named Claude.
|Website = https://anthropic.com
|Logo = Anthropic logo.png
|Type=Private
}}

Anthropic PBC is a private for-profit American [[artificial intelligence]] (AI) startup founded in 2021. Anthropic is mainly known for their family of large language models (LLMs) known as [[Claude]].

==Consumer impact summary==
{{Ph-C-CIS}}

==Incidents==
{{Ph-C-Inc}}

==Products==
*[[Claude]]
*Claude Code
*Cowork

==See also==
*[[OpenAI]]
*[[CursorAI "unlimited" plan rug pull]]
*[[ChatGPT]]

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]

Allstate

2026-03-21T02:21:46Z

2001:4BC9:82B:F663:2205:B7FF:FE00:E700: remove companies category

{{StubNotice}}
{{CompanyCargo
|Description=
|Founded=1931
|Industry=Insurance
|Logo=Allstate.png
|ParentCompany=
|Type=Public
|Website=https://allstate.com/
}}

[[wikipedia:Allstate|'''Allstate''']], founded in 1931,<ref>{{Cite web |date=24 Nov 2025 |title=Building on our legacy as an industry leader |url=https://www.allstatecorporation.com/about/our-history.aspx |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260116081851/https://www.allstatecorporation.com/about/our-history.aspx |archive-date=16 Jan 2026|access-date=24 Nov 2025 |website=Allstate}}</ref> is an American insurance provider that also operates in Canada. The company owns several subsidiaries, many of which carry the Allstate name, as well as Esurance.<ref>{{Cite web |date=11 May 2011 |title=Allstate Targets Online Insurance Sales; Buys Esurance, Answer Financial |url=https://www.insurancejournal.com/news/national/2011/05/18/199061.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251023074326/https://www.insurancejournal.com/news/national/2011/05/18/199061.htm |archive-date=23 Oct 2025|access-date=24 Nov 2025 |website=Insurance Journal}}</ref> It is one of the largest insurers in the United States.

==Consumer impact summary==
Allstate’s policies reflect a larger trend in insurance markets where companies leverage anti-consumer strategies to maintain revenue control:

*Accused of systematically offering settlements below market value and intentionally delaying claims to pressure claimants into accepting lower payouts. This strategy was allegedly developed with ''McKinsey & Company'' in the 1990s to maximize profits by reducing payouts.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=Behind McKinsey & Company’s Efforts To Help Allstate Squeeze Personal Injury Victims |url=https://www.injurytriallawyer.com/blog/behind-mckinsey-companys-efforts-to-help-allstate-squeeze-personal-injury-victims/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250907145412/https://www.injurytriallawyer.com/blog/behind-mckinsey-companys-efforts-to-help-allstate-squeeze-personal-injury-victims/ |archive-date=7 Sep 2025|website=injurytriallawyer.com}}</ref><ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Samples |first=Steve |title=Allstate Worst Insurance Company For Consumers |url=https://tex.law/allstate-worst-insurance-company-for-consumers/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260222204618/https://tex.law/allstate-worst-insurance-company-for-consumers/ |archive-date=22 Feb 2026|website=tex.lawe}}</ref>

*Internal documents revealed a tactic of "sitting and waiting" to frustrate claimants into settling for inadequate amounts, particularly in personal injury cases.<ref name=":0" />
*High denial rates: Florida subsidiaries ''Castle Key Indemnity'' and ''Castle Key Insurance'' denied 47.1% and 46% of claims, respectively, in 2023, which are among the highest rates in the state.<ref name=":1" />
*Having policy language that allows claim denials if a loss involves both covered and excluded events. This was widely criticized after Hurricane Katrina, where homeowners were denied claims for storm damage if flooding also contributed.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |title=Allstate Rebuts Stinging Criticism |url=https://consumerwatchdog.org/uncategorized/allstate-rebuts-stinging-criticism/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260222204719/https://consumerwatchdog.org/insurance/allstate-rebuts-stinging-criticism/ |archive-date=22 Feb 2026|website=consumerwatchdog.org}}</ref>
*Adjusters were allegedly trained to minimize payouts and received bonuses for reducing claim values. Former employees described a culture of "lying to customers" to meet profit targets.{{Citation needed|date=November 2025}}

===Market control===
Internal reports named "McKinsey Documents" revealed that Allstate prioritized profit over policyholders, aiming to pay 30% below market value on claims. Profits doubled to $4.6 billion by 2007, thanks to these tactics.{{Citation needed|date=November 2025}}

CEO Tom Wilson sold $32 million in stock amid scrutiny, while the company engaged in stock repurchases, which were criticized as price manipulation.{{Citation needed|date=November 2025}}

===Public backlash and reputation===
The consumer group American Association for Justice ranks ''Allstate'' as the worst insurer for consumers due to its claims practices.{{Citation needed|date=November 2025}}

Negative reviews cite poor customer service, claim delays, and premium hikes without corresponding improvements in coverage.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Revell |first=Nicholson |title=Allstate Worst Insurance Company For Consumers |url=https://nicholsonrevell.com/blog/allstate-worst-insurance-company-for-consumers/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251207001604/https://nicholsonrevell.com/blog/allstate-worst-insurance-company-for-consumers/ |archive-date=7 Dec 2025|website=nicholsonrevell.com}}</ref> Allstate has disputed some claims, citing third-party reports supporting its practices.{{Citation needed|date=November 2025}}

==Incidents==
This is a list of all consumer protection incidents in which this company is involved. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the [[:Category:Allstate|Allstate category]].

===Texas lawsuit (January 2025)===
{{Main|Allstate and Arity's alleged unauthorized driver data collection through mobile apps}}
Allstate, Arity, and their subsidiaries are currently defendants in a lawsuit filed by the state of Texas, which alleges multiple violations of data privacy regulations.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Stefanie |first=Schappert |date=13 Jan 2025 |title=Allstate abused driving data of 45 million Americans, new lawsuit claims |url=https://cybernews.com/privacy/allstate-collected-sold-driving-data-45-million-americans-texas-lawsuit-/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251009051903/https://cybernews.com/privacy/allstate-collected-sold-driving-data-45-million-americans-texas-lawsuit-/ |archive-date=9 Oct 2025 |access-date=18 Mar 2026 |website=Cybernews}}</ref>{{Update needed|date={{subst:November}} {{subst:2025}}|reason=Progress?}}

===Andrea Stevenson v. Allstate Insurance Co et al (May 2024)===
A $25 million class-action settlement for inflating premiums and unfairly denying claims.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Scarcella |first=Mike |date=29 May 2024 |title=US court approves $25 mln Allstate settlement in insurance rate class action |url=https://www.reuters.com/legal/litigation/us-court-approves-25-mln-allstate-settlement-insurance-rate-class-action-2024-05-29/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250723064356/https://www.reuters.com/legal/litigation/us-court-approves-25-mln-allstate-settlement-insurance-rate-class-action-2024-05-29/ |archive-date=23 Jul 2025|access-date=24 Nov 2025 |website=Reuters}}</ref><ref name=":1" /><ref name=":2" />

===TCPA Violations (March 2024)===
A 2024 court ruling found Allstate vicariously liable for illegal robocalls made by its subcontractors, in violation of the Telephone Consumer Protection Act.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2 Apr 2024 |title=Court Applies Finds an Insurance Company Vicariously Liable for the Actions and Failures of the Company’s Independent Insurance Agents’ Third-Party Telemarketing Subcontractors |url=https://commlawgroup.com/2024/court-applies-finds-an-insurance-company-vicariously-liable-for-the-actions-and-failures-of-the-companys-independent-insurance-agents-third-party-telemarketing-subcontractor/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251110233357/https://commlawgroup.com/2024/court-applies-finds-an-insurance-company-vicariously-liable-for-the-actions-and-failures-of-the-companys-independent-insurance-agents-third-party-telemarketing-subcontractor/ |archive-date=10 Nov 2025|access-date=24 Nov 2025 |website=Marashlian & Donahue, PLLC The Commlaw Group}}</ref>{{Citation needed}}

===Excessive home insurance rates (May 2008)===
The Texas Department of Insurance and the Office of Public Insurance Counsel, who filed the suit, stated that Allstate charged customers excessive home insurance rates from 2004 to 2007. Allstate paid a $70 million fine in Texas for overcharging homeowners.<ref>{{Cite web |date=15 May 2008 |title=Insurance Refunds |url=https://www.lawyersandsettlements.com/settlements/11801/allstate-homeowners-insurance-overcharging.html |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20200926041224/https://www.lawyersandsettlements.com/settlements/11801/allstate-homeowners-insurance-overcharging.html |archive-date=26 Sep 2020|access-date=24 Nov 2025 |website=LawyersandSettlements.com}}</ref>

===Katrina Case (April 2007)===
Allstate Insurance Co. had to pay $2.8 million bad faith ruling in Weiss v. Allstate.<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 Apr 2007 |title=Allstate Fined $2.8M In Katrina Case |url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/allstate-fined-28m-in-katrina-case/ |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20241209150024/https://www.cbsnews.com/news/allstate-fined-28m-in-katrina-case/ |archive-date=9 Dec 2024|access-date=24 Nov 2025 |website=CBS News}}</ref>

==See also==

*[[:Category:Lawsuits]]

==References==
[[Category:Allstate]]
<references />
[[Category:Articles in need of citations]]
[[Category:Articles requiring change in tone]]
[[Category:Articles requiring expansion]]

Ally Financial

2026-03-21T02:19:10Z

2001:4BC9:82B:F663:2205:B7FF:FE00:E700: remove companies category

{{StubNotice}}
{{CompanyCargo
| Type = Public
| Founded = 1919
| Industry = Financial services
| Website = https://ally.com
| Logo = Ally Financial Logo.svg
}}
'''[[wikipedia:Ally_Financial|Ally Financial Inc.]]''' is a US-based company offering banking, securities, and other financial services through its subsidiaries such as Ally Bank, Ally Invest Advisers Inc. and [[Ally Invest Securities]] LLC.

==Consumer impact summary==
{{Placeholder box|Overview of concerns that arise from the company's conduct regarding (if applicable):
* User Freedom
* User Privacy
* Business Model
* Market Control}}

==Incidents==

===Discrimination settlement (December 2013)===
Due to Ally's discriminatory pricing system, more than 235,000 minority borrowers paid higher interest rates for their auto loans between April 2011 and December 2013. The [[wikipedia:Consumer_Financial_Protection_Bureau|Consumer Financial Protection Bureau]] (CFPB) and [[wikipedia:United_States_Department_of_Justice|Department of Justice]] (DOJ) ordered the company to pay $18 million in penalties and $80 million in damages to affected borrowers.<ref>{{Cite web |date=20 Dec 2013 |title=CFPB and DOJ Order Ally to Pay $80 Million to Consumers Harmed by Discriminatory Auto Loan Pricing |url=https://www.consumerfinance.gov/about-us/newsroom/cfpb-and-doj-order-ally-to-pay-80-million-to-consumers-harmed-by-discriminatory-auto-loan-pricing/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://wayback.archive-it.org/23481/20250930143237/https://www.consumerfinance.gov/about-us/newsroom/cfpb-and-doj-order-ally-to-pay-80-million-to-consumers-harmed-by-discriminatory-auto-loan-pricing/ |archive-date=30 Sep 2025 |access-date=25 Nov 2025 |website=Consumer Financial Protection Bureau}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Ficklin |first=Patrice Alexander |date=29 Jan 2016 |title=Harmed Ally borrowers have been sent $80 million in damages |url=https://www.consumerfinance.gov/about-us/blog/harmed-ally-borrowers-have-been-sent-80-million-in-damages/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://wayback.archive-it.org/23481/20250930035613/https://www.consumerfinance.gov/about-us/blog/harmed-ally-borrowers-have-been-sent-80-million-in-damages/ |archive-date=30 Sep 2025 |access-date=25 Nov 2025 |website=Consumer Financial Protection Bureau}}</ref>

===Data breach (April 2024)===
Ally Financial experienced a data breach in April 2024 that revealed the personal data of millions of its clients.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Coyer |first=Cassandre |date=9 Sep 2024 |title=Ally Breach May Have Leaked Consumer Data of Billions, Suit Says |url=https://news.bloomberglaw.com/ip-law/ally-breach-may-have-leaked-consumer-data-of-billions-suit-says |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251018005936/https://news.bloomberglaw.com/ip-law/ally-breach-may-have-leaked-consumer-data-of-billions-suit-says |archive-date=18 Oct 2025|access-date=25 Nov 2025 |website=Bloomberg Law}}</ref> A [[class action lawsuit]] had been filed by July 2024,<ref>{{Cite web |date=25 Nov 2025 |title=Court Dockets |url=https://www.bloomberglaw.com/public/desktop/document/OwensvAllyBanketalDocketNo324cv00811WDNCSep072024CourtDocket?doc_id=X5LVE5J58BA8CP8L7L86STUQPGQ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250708182944/https://www.bloomberglaw.com/public/desktop/document/OwensvAllyBanketalDocketNo324cv00811WDNCSep072024CourtDocket?doc_id=X5LVE5J58BA8CP8L7L86STUQPGQ |archive-date=8 July 2025 |access-date=25 Nov 2025 |website=Bloomberg Law}}</ref> claiming Ally did not properly secure customers' confidential information, such as Social Security numbers and auto account numbers. The suit also alleged that Ally failed to use computer software available for detecting and warding off cyberattacks, and other measures needed to protect the hardware of its systems. Additionally, customer notifications were sent only with long delay.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Rattigan |first=Kathryn M. |date=24 Oct 2024 |title=Ally Financial Faces Class Actions Over Data Breach |url=https://natlawreview.com/article/ally-financial-faces-class-actions-over-data-breach |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250708182935/https://natlawreview.com/article/ally-financial-faces-class-actions-over-data-breach |archive-date=8 July 2025 |access-date=25 Nov 2025 |website=The National Law Review}}</ref> Due to this data breach, customers' personal data was being stolen and sold on the dark web.<ref name=":0" />

==See also==

*[[Ally Invest Securities]]
*[[Chase Bank]]
*[[PNC Bank]]

==References==
<references />
[[Category:Ally]]
[[Category:Articles requiring expansion]]