Consumer Rights Wiki - User contributions [en]

Age verification

2025-09-05T02:47:37Z

Clippytron: Added sources and another section on how it is a problem. I think the wording should be touched up next, and I think the examples section should explain more, I will do this later if no one else makes an edit before then.

{{Incomplete}}
'''AV''' (Age Verification) also referred to as '''AA''' (Age Affirmation) is the process in where a business requires some form of identification to verify your age. This is usually done for more explicit or mature content. This practice has been widely spreading since the UK's OSA (Online Safety Act) has passed; requiring all individuals to verify themselves before accessing mature content. Certain ways of checking can include: checking for a valid credit card, facial age estimation tools, government issued id, bio-metric data, or account history behavior and so forth.

==How it works==
When accessing a platform or website that may contain content not suitable for all audiences may force you to register for the platform along with verifying your age by one of the methods mentioned previously. Sites that likely don't use any form of account system will probably have a popup instead requiring you to verify your age before even serving the content you were trying to access.

==Why it is a problem==

===Privacy===
Having companies easily able to identify you means they can track you more efficiently and sell that shared profile to other companies such as ad agencies that then start targeting you specifically.

Governments can also more easily track online movements and find out who you are. Saying something that may go against their own agenda may end up with a police raid and heavy interrogation and prison time.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Liu |first=John |date=2025-06-20 |title=China tightens internet controls with new centralized form of virtual ID |url=https://edition.cnn.com/2025/06/20/tech/china-censorship-internet-id-hnk-intl#:~:text=%E2%80%9CThis%20is%20a%20state%2Dled,an%20infrastructure%20of%20digital%20totalitarianism.%E2%80%9D |access-date=2025-09-04 |work=CNN}}</ref>

===Censorship===
Certain topics such as 18+ or political will likely be unfairly censored by the governing body or company that has a say on what platform has the '''potential''' to be inappropriate for minors or other age groups.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-09-01 |title=Strict Age Verification Laws: Balancing Content Restriction and Educational Rights |url=https://www.thinkacademy.ca/blog/strict-age-verification-laws-impact-k12-education/#:~:text=Impact%20on%20K12,affect%20these%20groups |access-date=2025-09-04 |website=Think Academy}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Kelley |first=Jason |last2=Mackey |first2=Aaron |last3=Mullin |first3=Joe |date=2024-02-15 |title=Don’t Fall for the Latest Changes to the Dangerous Kids Online Safety Act |url=https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2024/02/dont-fall-latest-changes-dangerous-kids-online-safety-act |access-date=2025-09-04 |website=Electronic Frontier Foundation}}</ref>

Platforms that host this type of content may also be more proactive in deleting/hiding posts that may get them in trouble or fined by laws or policies by local governments leading to a more censored internet where opinions are streamlined to fit a set narrative or outlook.<ref name=":0" />

===Storage of Private and Biometric Information by Age Verification Service Providers===
A study commissioned by the Australian government found that age verification service providers accumulate a concerning amount of personal information, sometimes even biometric in nature, even when that was not necessary to provide the age verification service.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Meineck |first=Sebastian |date=2025-09-03 |title=Anbieter von Alterskontrollen horten biometrische Daten [Age Verification Providers are hoarding biometric Data] |url=https://netzpolitik.org/2025/australisches-gutachten-anbieter-von-alterskontrollen-horten-biometrische-daten/ |access-date=2025-09-03 |website=Netzpolitik.org}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Meineck |first=Sebastion |date=2025-09-03 |title=Anbieter von Alterskontrollen horten biometrische Daten [Google Translate English Version] |url=https://netzpolitik-org.translate.goog/2025/australisches-gutachten-anbieter-von-alterskontrollen-horten-biometrische-daten/?_x_tr_sl=auto&_x_tr_tl=en&_x_tr_hl=de&_x_tr_pto=wapp |access-date=2025-09-03 |website=Netzpolitik.org}}</ref>

===Driving users towards smaller and completely unregulated offerings===
Big platforms can be regulated and forced to comply with applicable laws since they need to have infrastructure such as servers in all major markets. Only these will be affected by the age restriction requirement.

However, users who do not wish to compromise their privacy or who are not of age will then go looking towards smaller niche platforms, often in other regions not affected by the regulation or the darknet.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Kaleta |first=Miroslav |date=2025-08-20 |title=The Cost of Data Privacy Negligence (And How to Avoid It) |url=https://countly.com/blog/data-privacy-negligence#:~:text=2.%20Losing%20Customer,IBM%20Report. |access-date=2025-09-04 |website=Countly Blog}}</ref> With these offerings, there is little to no leverage with regards to removal of illegal content. Increased exposure to illegal content can then lead to both a strengthening of illegal content providers<ref>{{Cite web |last=Branley |first=Dawn |last2=Covey |first2=Judith |date=2016-06-06 |title=Is exposure to online content depicting risky behavior related to viewers' own risky behavior offline? |url=https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0747563217303357 |access-date=2025-09-04 |website=ScienceDirect}}</ref> and significantly increased danger to minors, who may not yet be able to differentiate between legal and illegal content as well as an adult.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-04 |title=Potential risks of content, features, and functions: The science of how social media affects youth |url=https://www.apa.org/topics/social-media-internet/youth-social-media-2024 |access-date=2025-09-04 |website=American Psychological Association}}</ref>

===Increased Damage from Data Breaches===
Platforms which implement age checks that require sensitive information such as a government-issued ID will likely be more of a target for cyber criminals.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-04-02 |title=Cybercriminals Target These Industries the Most – Here’s Why and How to Stay Safe |url=https://brandefense.io/blog/cybercriminals-target-these-industries/#:~:text=The%20Most%20Vulnerable%20Industries%20to,information%20stored%20within%20their%20networks. |access-date=2025-09-04 |website=Brandefense}}</ref> As more platforms comply with the age checks, it becomes more likely that a data breach on at least one of these platforms can reveal extremely sensitive information. In the case of a data breach, it can be catastrophic if users' sensitive information were exposed, which can likely result in identity theft.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Popov |first=Cristina |date=2023-03-22 |title=Why breaches can affect you long after they occur |url=https://www.bitdefender.com/en-us/blog/hotforsecurity/why-breaches-can-affect-you-long-after-they-occur#:~:text=%232%3A%20Breaches%20can,for%20online%20accounts. |access-date=2025-09-04 |website=Bitdefender}}</ref>

Platforms already experience major losses and consumer distrust from data breaches that reveal information less sensitive than government-issued IDs or biometric data.<ref name=":1" /> A data breach involving information this sensitive will seriously damage a business, and the users even more so. As stated previously, users who foresee these privacy risks will turn away from platforms which implement the policy, and towards niche platforms.

==Examples==
*[[YouTube]]'s Age verification and account estimation algorithm.

*[[Spotify]]'s Age affirmation for MA rated songs and content.

*[[Discord]]'s Age verification for accounts determining what eligible servers are available.

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Common terms]]

Features on demand

2025-08-27T03:03:19Z

Clippytron: Fixed minor consistency issues

'''Features on Demand (FoD)''', also called On-Demand Features (ODF) or Functions on Demand, refers to the process in which businesses provide a particular function or feature that can be added whenever the consumer wants or needs it. FoD can also allow for subscription models to be added effectively, allowing monetary gain for businesses. However, this has led to situations involving tangible hardware being disabled via software, requiring a subscription to enable the feature.

==How it works==
'''Features on Demand''' is built on top of the general On-Demand business model, which allows consumers to order a product or service conveniently, and receive it quickly.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Jasani |first=Mahil |date=15 Jul 2025 |title=On Demand Business Model: The Ultimate Guide |url=https://www.apurple.co/insights/on-demand-business-model/#:~:text=What%20is%20the,key%20examples%20are%2C |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=aPurple}}</ref> Generally, FoD adds upon this by allowing consumers to add or later remove an additional feature or function whenever needed within a product they already own without human contact, allowing more customization and personalization. However, FoD is sometimes paired with a pay-per-use or subscription model, which charges the consumer to continue to have the feature or function activated.

In the Automotive industry, FoD is typically used with subscriptions. While FoD can be related to Over-The-Air (OTA) updates, OTA is used to update a vehicle's software wirelessly, while FoD uses OTA to enable or disable a feature or function after a subscription or fee is paid.<ref>{{Cite web |date=20 Jun 2022 |title=What is FOD? |url=https://autovista24.autovistagroup.com/news/what-is-an-automotive-feature-on-demand/#:~:text=While%20closely%20linked,used%2Dvehicles%20market. |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=Autovista24}}</ref>

In a more software related environment, FoD is related to [[Software as a service|Software as a Service (SaaS)]], which often allows FoD to even function.

==Why it can be a problem==

===Ability to be Abused===
FoD features that require subscriptions can generate a lot of money for businesses. In the Automotive industry, FoD is projected to generate $5.2 billion in revenue by 2030.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hedge |first=Gautham |date=5 Nov 2024 |title=Technological Breakthroughs and Shifting Consumer Preferences Fueling Feature on Demand (FoD) Growth in Passenger Vehicles |url=https://www.frost.com/growth-opportunity-news/technological-breakthroughs-and-shifting-consumer-preferences-fueling-feature-on-demand-fod-growth-in-passenger-vehicles/#:~:text=As%20the%20FoD,million%20in%202023. |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=Frost & Sullivan}}</ref> The large potential for monetary gain can potentially motivate companies to lock more features or functions behind paywalls, which previously may have been free. This can cause a negative reaction from consumers, who may perceive this as "unfair," and create distrust.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Schaefers |first=Tobias |last2=Leban |first2=Marina |last3=Vogt |first3=Florian |date=23 Oct 2020 |title=On-demand features: Consumer reactions to tangibility and pricing structure |url=https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0148296321007050 |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=ScienceDirect}}</ref> If consumers believe that a practice is unfair or not trustworthy, it is likely that they will switch to a different brand or service, which can seriously damage a business.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nguyen |first=Bang |last2=Klaus |first2=Philipp |date=9 Jun 2012 |title=Retail fairness: Exploring consumer perceptions of fairness towards retailers’ marketing tactics |url=https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0969698913000167#:~:text=Fairness%20is%20of%20great,White%20et%20al.%2C%202012 |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=ScienceDirect}}</ref>

===Hardware Disabled From Software===
In industries such as the Automotive industry, tangible hardware, or hardware that is physically present within the product, may be disabled via software, often requiring a subscription to reactivate. An example of this is the [[BMW's heated seat subscription|BMW Heated Seat Scandal]].<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Christopher |date=14 Jul 2022 |title=BMW USA Won't Have Heated Seat Subscription If Option Is Already Chosen |url=https://www.motor1.com/news/598281/bmw-usa-heated-seat-subscription-if-option-chosen/#:~:text=As%20premium%20vehicle,ConnectedDrive%20store%20online. |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=Motor1}}</ref> This practice has received a largely negative response from consumers, many of which may consider it "unfair."<ref name=":0" /> In a survey conducted by [https://norstat.co/ Norstat], 42% of respondents stated "I am not willing to pay on a regular basis for such additional functions," and 35% stated "It is outrageous to install useful functions in cars without activating them for the customer."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Leimann |first=Marc |date=18 Apr 2019 |title=Study on "Functions on Demand": Green lights for additional digital functions |url=https://norstatgroup.com/articles/detail/news/study-on-functions-on-demand-green-lights-for-additional-digital-functions/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200701094913/https://norstatgroup.com/articles/detail/news/study-on-functions-on-demand-green-lights-for-additional-digital-functions/ |archive-date=1 Jul 2020 |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=Norstat}}</ref>

===Potential Security Risk===
The implementation of FoD will require internet-access through SaaS for the necessary software to function. However, this can open more areas of attack for cybercriminals if not handled correctly, for example: a connected car could experience a Denial of Service attack, which can manipulate the engine and car locks.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Cybersecurity Challenges in the Automotive Industry |url=https://www.securitycompass.com/whitepapers/cybersecurity-challenges-in-the-automotive-industry/#:~:text=In%20a%202014%20study%2C%20researchers,found%20in%20their%20connected%20vehicles. |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=Security Compass}}</ref>

==Examples==

===Microsoft===
[[Microsoft]] uses FoD in the Windows Operating System to allow users to add at any time, an example of a feature that can be added is the language resources, such as handwriting recognition. There does not seem to be any subscription required to add these features.<ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Aug 2022 |title=Features On Demand |url=https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-hardware/manufacture/desktop/features-on-demand-v2--capabilities?view=windows-11#:~:text=08/17/2022-,Overview,new%20feature%2C%20it%20can%20request%20the%20feature%20package%20from%20Windows%20Update.,-You%20can%20also |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=Microsoft Learn}}</ref>

===Audi===
''Link to main article: [[Audi Basic HVAC "Sync" Function Paywalled]]''

After an HVAC system had been paywalled via software, [[Audi]] has made a pivot in the direction of implementing more FoD features.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2 Apr 2022 |title=Audi Driver Horrified After Basic Functionality Hidden Behind Paywall |url=https://carbuzz.com/news/audi-q4-e-tron-owner-stunned-by-paywall-block-on-climate-control-feature/#:~:text=When%20a%20feature,not%20been%20purchased%22. |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=CarBuzz}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Neves |first=Jarryd |date=5 Nov 2023 |title=Audi Going Big With On-Demand Subscription Features From 2024 |url=https://carbuzz.com/news/audi-going-big-with-on-demand-subscription-features-from-2024/#:~:text=This%20is%20according%20to%20Oliver,A4%2C%20A5%2C%20and%20Q5. |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=CarBuzz}}</ref>

===BMW===
''Link to main article: [[BMW's heated seat subscription]]''

[[BMW]] used FoD to paywall heated seats within their vehicles, requiring a subscription to enable the previously free function.<ref name=":1" /> This, however, was eventually reverted due to consumer backlash.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Attwood |first=James |date=7 Sep 2023 |title=BMW will not charge extra to activate existing functions in cars |url=https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/bmw-will-not-charge-extra-activate-existing-functions-cars#:~:text=What%20we%20don%E2%80%99t%20do%20any%20more |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=AutoCar}}</ref>

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Common terms]]

Features on demand

2025-08-26T02:29:48Z

Clippytron: Fixed reference

'''Features on Demand (FoD)''', also called On-Demand Features (ODF) or Functions on Demand, refers to the process in which businesses provide a particular function or feature that can be added whenever the consumer wants or needs it. FoD can also allow for subscription models to be added effectively, allowing monetary gain for businesses. However, this has led to situations involving tangible hardware being disabled via software, requiring a subscription to enable the feature.

==How it works==
'''Features on Demand''' is built on top of the general On-Demand business model, which allows consumers to order a product or service conveniently, and receive it quickly.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Jasani |first=Mahil |date=15 Jul 2025 |title=On Demand Business Model: The Ultimate Guide |url=https://www.apurple.co/insights/on-demand-business-model/#:~:text=What%20is%20the,key%20examples%20are%2C |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=aPurple}}</ref> Generally, FoD adds upon this by allowing consumers to add or later remove an additional feature or function whenever needed within a product they already own without human contact, allowing more customization and personalization. However, FoD is sometimes paired with a pay-per-use or subscription model, which charges the consumer to continue to have the feature or function activated.

In the automotive industry, FoD is typically used with subscriptions. While FoD can be related to Over-The-Air(OTA) updates, OTA is used to update a vehicle's software wirelessly, while FoD uses OTA to enable or disable a feature or function after a subscription or fee is paid.<ref>{{Cite web |date=20 Jun 2022 |title=What is FOD? |url=https://autovista24.autovistagroup.com/news/what-is-an-automotive-feature-on-demand/#:~:text=While%20closely%20linked,used%2Dvehicles%20market. |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=Autovista24}}</ref>

In a more software related environment, FoD is related to [[Software as a service|Software as a Service(SaaS)]], which often allows FoD to even function.

==Why it can be a problem==

===Ability to be Abused===
FoD features that require subscriptions can generate a lot of money for businesses. In the Automotive industry, FoD is projected to generate $5.2 billion in revenue by 2030.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hedge |first=Gautham |date=5 Nov 2024 |title=Technological Breakthroughs and Shifting Consumer Preferences Fueling Feature on Demand (FoD) Growth in Passenger Vehicles |url=https://www.frost.com/growth-opportunity-news/technological-breakthroughs-and-shifting-consumer-preferences-fueling-feature-on-demand-fod-growth-in-passenger-vehicles/#:~:text=As%20the%20FoD,million%20in%202023. |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=Frost & Sullivan}}</ref> The large potential for monetary gain can potentially motivate companies to lock more features or functions behind paywalls, which previously may have been free. This can cause a negative reaction from consumers, who may perceive this as "unfair," and create distrust.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Schaefers |first=Tobias |last2=Leban |first2=Marina |last3=Vogt |first3=Florian |date=23 Oct 2020 |title=On-demand features: Consumer reactions to tangibility and pricing structure |url=https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0148296321007050 |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=ScienceDirect}}</ref> If consumers believe that a practice is unfair or not trustworthy, it is likely that they will switch to a different brand or service, which can seriously damage a business.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nguyen |first=Bang |last2=Klaus |first2=Philipp |date=9 Jun 2012 |title=Retail fairness: Exploring consumer perceptions of fairness towards retailers’ marketing tactics |url=https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0969698913000167#:~:text=Fairness%20is%20of%20great,White%20et%20al.%2C%202012 |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=ScienceDirect}}</ref>

===Hardware Disabled From Software===
In industries such as the Automotive industry, tangible hardware, or hardware that is physically present within the product, may be disabled via software, often requiring a subscription to reactivate. An example of this is the [[BMW's heated seat subscription|BMW Heated Seat Scandal]].<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Christopher |date=14 Jul 2022 |title=BMW USA Won't Have Heated Seat Subscription If Option Is Already Chosen |url=https://www.motor1.com/news/598281/bmw-usa-heated-seat-subscription-if-option-chosen/#:~:text=As%20premium%20vehicle,ConnectedDrive%20store%20online. |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=Motor1}}</ref> This practice has received a largely negative response from consumers, many of which may consider it "unfair."<ref name=":0" /> In a survey conducted by [https://norstat.co/ Norstat], 42% of respondents stated "I am not willing to pay on a regular basis for such additional functions," and 35% stated "It is outrageous to install useful functions in cars without activating them for the customer."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Leimann |first=Marc |date=18 Apr 2019 |title=Study on "Functions on Demand": Green lights for additional digital functions |url=https://norstatgroup.com/articles/detail/news/study-on-functions-on-demand-green-lights-for-additional-digital-functions/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200701094913/https://norstatgroup.com/articles/detail/news/study-on-functions-on-demand-green-lights-for-additional-digital-functions/ |archive-date=1 Jul 2020 |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=Norstat}}</ref>

===Potential Security Risk===
The implementation of FoD will require internet-access for the necessary software to function. However, this can open more areas of attack for cybercriminals if not handled correctly, for example: a connected car could experience a Denial of Service attack, which can manipulate the engine and car locks.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Cybersecurity Challenges in the Automotive Industry |url=https://www.securitycompass.com/whitepapers/cybersecurity-challenges-in-the-automotive-industry/#:~:text=In%20a%202014%20study%2C%20researchers,found%20in%20their%20connected%20vehicles. |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=Security Compass}}</ref>

==Examples==

===Microsoft===
[[Microsoft]] uses FoD in the Windows Operating System to allow users to add at any time, an example of a feature that can be added is the language resources, such as handwriting recognition. There does not seem to be any subscription required to add these features.<ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Aug 2022 |title=Features On Demand |url=https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-hardware/manufacture/desktop/features-on-demand-v2--capabilities?view=windows-11#:~:text=08/17/2022-,Overview,new%20feature%2C%20it%20can%20request%20the%20feature%20package%20from%20Windows%20Update.,-You%20can%20also |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=Microsoft Learn}}</ref>

===Audi===
''Link to main article: [[Audi Basic HVAC "Sync" Function Paywalled]]''

After an HVAC system had been paywalled via software, [[Audi]] has made a pivot in the direction of implementing more FoD features.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2 Apr 2022 |title=Audi Driver Horrified After Basic Functionality Hidden Behind Paywall |url=https://carbuzz.com/news/audi-q4-e-tron-owner-stunned-by-paywall-block-on-climate-control-feature/#:~:text=When%20a%20feature,not%20been%20purchased%22. |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=CarBuzz}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Neves |first=Jarryd |date=5 Nov 2023 |title=Audi Going Big With On-Demand Subscription Features From 2024 |url=https://carbuzz.com/news/audi-going-big-with-on-demand-subscription-features-from-2024/#:~:text=This%20is%20according%20to%20Oliver,A4%2C%20A5%2C%20and%20Q5. |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=CarBuzz}}</ref>

===BMW===
''Link to main article: [[BMW's heated seat subscription]]''

[[BMW]] used FoD to paywall heated seats within their vehicles, requiring a subscription to enable the previously free function.<ref name=":1" /> This, however, was eventually reverted due to consumer backlash.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Attwood |first=James |date=7 Sep 2023 |title=BMW will not charge extra to activate existing functions in cars |url=https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/bmw-will-not-charge-extra-activate-existing-functions-cars#:~:text=What%20we%20don%E2%80%99t%20do%20any%20more |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=AutoCar}}</ref>

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Common terms]]

Audi Basic HVAC "Sync" Function Paywalled

2025-08-26T01:42:33Z

Clippytron: Linked to the FoD page

{{IncidentCargo
|Company=Audi
|Status=Active
|ArticleType=Product
|Description=Audi charges $758 for an HVAC “Sync” button, which is physically present within the vehicle, but disabled until a payment is made.
}}
{{StubNotice}}
'''[[Audi]]''' equips all vehicles with the optional tri-zone climate control feature with the necessary hardware. Customers who do not purchase the option at the time of sale still receive the hardware, but the feature is disabled via software. Enabling it later via a remote software update costs $758. Reminders prompting a purchase are displayed if a user presses the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) sync button before the feature is unlocked.

==Background==
[[Audi]] is an automotive manufacturer of luxury vehicles based in Germany. Audi is a subsidiary company of '''[[Volkswagen]]'''.

Historically, if a vehicle owner opted out of purchasing a specific feature, any buttons associated with that feature would be replaced with blank plastic panels, often called "blank buttons." Pressing these blank buttons would not activate any functions or mechanisms within the vehicle.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nagaraj |first=Rahul |date=5 Apr 2022 |title=Audi EV owner finds paywalled HVAC function |url=https://www.team-bhp.com/news/audi-ev-owner-finds-paywalled-hvac-function#:~:text=Historically%2C%20cars%20with,for%20the%20same. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=Team-BHP}}</ref>

However, '''[[Features on Demand|Features on Demand (FoD)]]''' is becoming increasingly popular among car manufacturers. FoD features are subscription-type features, meaning they can only be enabled with a subscription.

==Incident==
An owner of an Audi Q4 E-Tron opted out of paying for tri-zone climate control, which is an optional add-on in regions outside of the U.S. and U.K., priced at $758.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Stumpf |first=Rob |date=1 Apr 2022 |title=Audi Owner Finds Basic HVAC Function Paywalled After Pressing the Button for It |url=https://www.thedrive.com/news/44967/audi-owner-finds-basic-hvac-function-paywalled-after-pressing-the-button-for-it#:~:text=In%20Denmark%2C%20where%20this%20particular%20owner%20told%20us%20they%E2%80%99re%20based%2C%20the%20add%2Don%20costs%20around%20$758%20(5%2C114%20Kroner).%20The%20owner%20acknowledged%20that%20they%20chose%20against%20purchasing%20it%20but%20didn%E2%80%99t%20expect%20pressing%20the%20button%20to%20display%20a%20message. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=The Drive}}</ref> However, the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) “Sync” button was still physically present within the vehicle. Upon pressing the button, a message would appear on the infotainment screen, stating “the function has not been purchased.”<ref>{{Cite web |date=2 Apr 2022 |title=Audi Driver Horrified After Basic Functionality Hidden Behind Paywall |url=https://carbuzz.com/news/audi-q4-e-tron-owner-stunned-by-paywall-block-on-climate-control-feature/#:~:text=When%20a%20feature,not%20been%20purchased%22. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=CarBuzz}}</ref> The lack of a blank button, and message reminding the user of the unpaid feature has caused speculation on whether [[Audi]] was planning to introduce FoD features or not.

===Audi's Response===
While not explicitly responding to the incident, Oliver Hoffman, the head of the Technical Development division at the time, has suggested that FoD will appear more within the future, "With our next generation of electronic architecture, we will bring more offers to 'function on demand,' and you will see year by year we will bring new functions in the cars…A few years ago, there were ideas to generate more revenue on digitalization functions than by selling cars."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Neves |first=Jarryd |date=5 Nov 2023 |title=Audi Going Big With On-Demand Subscription Features |url=https://carbuzz.com/news/audi-going-big-with-on-demand-subscription-features-from-2024/#:~:text=This%20is%20according%20to%20Oliver,A4%2C%20A5%2C%20and%20Q5. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=CarBuzz}}</ref> [[Audi]] insists that the decision to pivot towards FoD was in response to consumer demand.

==Consumer response==

Some users on Reddit, in direct response to the incident, were fearful and frustrated about the possible future of the automotive industry. Many believed this would result in subscriptions being required to access most functions, imagining a reality where many of even the most basic features are locked behind paywalls.<ref>{{Cite web |date=5 Apr 2022 |title=A dashboard button leads to a Reddit reckoning about over-the-air car software |url=https://thenextweb.com/news/a-blank-hvac-button-reveals-a-deeper-fear-about-ota-car-software#:~:text=A%20portal%20to,Raid%20Shadow%20Legends. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=The Next Web}}</ref>

Others were more generally opposed to features that are only available through subscriptions. In a survey conducted by the Cox Automotive, 58% of respondents stated that FoD, atleast initially, would be "too expensive," and 69% stated that if the features were only available via subscription, they would "shop elsewhere."<ref>{{Cite web |date=8 May 2023 |title=Selling Subscription-based Vehicle Features Will Challenge Automakers in Unexpected Ways |url=https://www.coxautoinc.com/market-insights/selling-subscription-based-vehicle-features-will-challenge-automakers-in-unexpected-ways/#:~:text=The%20study%20suggests,the%20research%20shows. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=Cox Automotive}}</ref> However, only 21% were previously aware of FoD, and 65% believe that if free-trials for subscriptions were provided, they'd be more likely to consider a brand.

==See also==

*[[Mercedes-Benz EQS rear-wheel steering requires subscription]]
*[[Mercedes-Benz locks horsepower behind paid subscription]]
*[[Tesla locks battery range behind paywall]]
*[[Tesla locks heated rear seats behind paywall]]
*[[BMW feature lockout scandal]]
*[[BMW's heated seat subscription]]
*[[Software locks]]
*[[Mazda remote-start subscription]]

==References==
{{reflist}}
[[Category:Incidents]]
[[Category:Audi]]

Features on demand

2025-08-26T01:40:01Z

Clippytron: Created this page

'''Features on Demand (FoD)''', also called On-Demand Features (ODF) or Functions on Demand, refers to the process in which businesses provide a particular function or feature that can be added whenever the consumer wants or needs it. FoD can also allow for subscription models to be added effectively, allowing monetary gain for businesses. However, this has led to situations involving tangible hardware being disabled via software, requiring a subscription to enable the feature.

==How it works==
'''Features on Demand''' is built on top of the general On-Demand business model, which allows consumers to order a product or service conveniently, and receive it quickly.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Jasani |first=Mahil |date=15 Jul 2025 |title=On Demand Business Model: The Ultimate Guide |url=https://www.apurple.co/insights/on-demand-business-model/#:~:text=What%20is%20the,key%20examples%20are%2C |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=aPurple}}</ref> Generally, FoD adds upon this by allowing consumers to add or later remove an additional feature or function whenever needed within a product they already own without human contact, allowing more customization and personalization. However, FoD is sometimes paired with a pay-per-use or subscription model, which charges the consumer to continue to have the feature or function activated.

In the automotive industry, FoD is typically used with subscriptions. While FoD can be related to Over-The-Air(OTA) updates, OTA is used to update a vehicle's software wirelessly, while FoD uses OTA to enable or disable a feature or function after a subscription or fee is paid.<ref>{{Cite web |date=20 Jun 2022 |title=What is FOD? |url=https://autovista24.autovistagroup.com/news/what-is-an-automotive-feature-on-demand/#:~:text=While%20closely%20linked,used%2Dvehicles%20market. |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=Autovista24}}</ref>

In a more software related environment, FoD is related to [[Software as a service|Software as a Service(SaaS)]], which often allows FoD to even function.

==Why it can be a problem==

=== Ability to be Abused ===
FoD features that require subscriptions can generate a lot of money for businesses. In the Automotive industry, FoD is projected to generate $5.2 billion in revenue by 2030.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hedge |first=Gautham |date=5 Nov 2024 |title=Technological Breakthroughs and Shifting Consumer Preferences Fueling Feature on Demand (FoD) Growth in Passenger Vehicles |url=https://www.frost.com/growth-opportunity-news/technological-breakthroughs-and-shifting-consumer-preferences-fueling-feature-on-demand-fod-growth-in-passenger-vehicles/#:~:text=As%20the%20FoD,million%20in%202023. |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=Frost & Sullivan}}</ref> The large potential for monetary gain can potentially motivate companies to lock more features or functions behind paywalls, which previously may have been free. This can cause a negative reaction from consumers, who may perceive this as "unfair," and create distrust.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Schaefers |first=Tobias |last2=Leban |first2=Marina |last3=Vogt |first3=Florian |date=23 Oct 2020 |title=On-demand features: Consumer reactions to tangibility and pricing structure |url=https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0148296321007050 |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=ScienceDirect}}</ref> If consumers believe that a practice is unfair or not trustworthy, it is likely that they will switch to a different brand or service, which can seriously damage a business.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nguyen |first=Bang |last2=Klaus |first2=Philipp |date=9 Jun 2012 |title=Retail fairness: Exploring consumer perceptions of fairness towards retailers’ marketing tactics |url=https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0969698913000167#:~:text=Fairness%20is%20of%20great,White%20et%20al.%2C%202012 |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=ScienceDirect}}</ref>

=== Hardware Disabled From Software ===
In industries such as the Automotive industry, tangible hardware, or hardware that is physically present within the product, may be disabled via software, often requiring a subscription to reactivate. An example of this is the [[BMW's heated seat subscription|BMW Heated Seat Scandal]].<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Christopher |date=14 Jul 2022 |title=BMW USA Won't Have Heated Seat Subscription If Option Is Already Chosen |url=https://www.motor1.com/news/598281/bmw-usa-heated-seat-subscription-if-option-chosen/#:~:text=As%20premium%20vehicle,ConnectedDrive%20store%20online. |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=Motor1}}</ref> This practice has received a largely negative response from consumers, many of which may consider it "unfair."<ref name=":0" /> In a survey conducted by [https://norstat.co/ Norstat], 42% of respondents stated "I am not willing to pay on a regular basis for such additional functions," and 35% stated "It is outrageous to install useful functions in cars without activating them for the customer."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Leimann |first=Marc |date=18 Apr 2019 |title=Study on "Functions on Demand": Green lights for additional digital functions |url=https://norstatgroup.com/articles/detail/news/study-on-functions-on-demand-green-lights-for-additional-digital-functions/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200701094913/https://norstatgroup.com/articles/detail/news/study-on-functions-on-demand-green-lights-for-additional-digital-functions/ |archive-date=1 Jul 2020 |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=Norstat}}</ref>

=== Potential Security Risk ===
The implementation of FoD will require internet-access for the necessary software to function. However, this can open more areas of attack for cybercriminals if not handled correctly, for example: a connected car could experience a Denial of Service attack, which can manipulate the engine and car locks.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Cybersecurity Challenges in the Automotive Industry |url=https://www.securitycompass.com/whitepapers/cybersecurity-challenges-in-the-automotive-industry/#:~:text=In%20a%202014%20study%2C%20researchers,found%20in%20their%20connected%20vehicles. |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=Security Compass}}</ref>

==Examples==

=== Microsoft ===
[[Microsoft]] uses FoD in the Windows Operating System to allow users to add at any time, an example of a feature that can be added is the language resources, such as handwriting recognition. There does not seem to be any subscription required to add these features.<ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Aug 2022 |title=Features On Demand |url=https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-hardware/manufacture/desktop/features-on-demand-v2--capabilities?view=windows-11#:~:text=08/17/2022-,Overview,new%20feature%2C%20it%20can%20request%20the%20feature%20package%20from%20Windows%20Update.,-You%20can%20also |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=Microsoft Learn}}</ref>

=== Audi ===
''Link to main article: [[Audi Basic HVAC "Sync" Function Paywalled]]''

After an HVAC system had been paywalled via software, [[Audi]] has made a pivot in the direction of implementing more FoD features.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2 Apr 2022 |title=Audi Driver Horrified After Basic Functionality Hidden Behind Paywall |url=https://carbuzz.com/news/audi-q4-e-tron-owner-stunned-by-paywall-block-on-climate-control-feature/#:~:text=When%20a%20feature,not%20been%20purchased%22. |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=CarBuzz}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Neves |first=Jarryd |date=5 Nov 2023 |title=Audi Going Big With On-Demand Subscription Features From 2024 |url=https://carbuzz.com/news/audi-going-big-with-on-demand-subscription-features-from-2024/#:~:text=This%20is%20according%20to%20Oliver,A4%2C%20A5%2C%20and%20Q5. |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=CarBuzz}}</ref>

=== BMW ===
''Link to main article: [[BMW's heated seat subscription]]''

[[BMW]] used FoD to paywall heated seats within their vehicles, requiring a subscription to enable the previously free function.<ref name=":1" /> This, however, was eventually reverted due to consumer backlash.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Attwood |first=James |date=7 Sep 2023 |title="BMW will not charge extra to activate existing functions in cars" |url=https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/bmw-will-not-charge-extra-activate-existing-functions-cars#:~:text=What%20we%20don%E2%80%99t%20do%20any%20more |access-date=25 Aug 2025 |website=AutoCar}}</ref>

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Common terms]]

Audi Basic HVAC "Sync" Function Paywalled

2025-08-22T22:27:03Z

Clippytron: Added a "See also" section

{{IncidentCargo
|Company=Audi
|Status=Active
|ArticleType=Product
|Description=Audi charges $758 for an HVAC “Sync” button, which is physically present within the vehicle, but disabled until a payment is made.
}}
{{StubNotice}}
'''[[Audi]]''' equips all vehicles with the optional tri-zone climate control feature with the necessary hardware. Customers who do not purchase the option at the time of sale still receive the hardware, but the feature is disabled via software. Enabling it later via a remote software update costs $758. Reminders prompting a purchase are displayed if a user presses the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) sync button before the feature is unlocked.

==Background==
[[Audi]] is an automotive manufacturer of luxury vehicles based in Germany. Audi is a subsidiary company of '''[[Volkswagen]]'''.

Historically, if a vehicle owner opted out of purchasing a specific feature, any buttons associated with that feature would be replaced with blank plastic panels, often called "blank buttons." Pressing these blank buttons would not activate any functions or mechanisms within the vehicle.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nagaraj |first=Rahul |date=5 Apr 2022 |title=Audi EV owner finds paywalled HVAC function |url=https://www.team-bhp.com/news/audi-ev-owner-finds-paywalled-hvac-function#:~:text=Historically%2C%20cars%20with,for%20the%20same. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=Team-BHP}}</ref>

However, '''[[Features on Demand (FoD)]]''' is becoming increasingly popular among car manufacturers. FoD features are subscription-type features, meaning they can only be enabled with a subscription.

==Incident==
An owner of an Audi Q4 E-Tron opted out of paying for tri-zone climate control, which is an optional add-on in regions outside of the U.S. and U.K., priced at $758.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Stumpf |first=Rob |date=1 Apr 2022 |title=Audi Owner Finds Basic HVAC Function Paywalled After Pressing the Button for It |url=https://www.thedrive.com/news/44967/audi-owner-finds-basic-hvac-function-paywalled-after-pressing-the-button-for-it#:~:text=In%20Denmark%2C%20where%20this%20particular%20owner%20told%20us%20they%E2%80%99re%20based%2C%20the%20add%2Don%20costs%20around%20$758%20(5%2C114%20Kroner).%20The%20owner%20acknowledged%20that%20they%20chose%20against%20purchasing%20it%20but%20didn%E2%80%99t%20expect%20pressing%20the%20button%20to%20display%20a%20message. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=The Drive}}</ref> However, the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) “Sync” button was still physically present within the vehicle. Upon pressing the button, a message would appear on the infotainment screen, stating “the function has not been purchased.”<ref>{{Cite web |date=2 Apr 2022 |title=Audi Driver Horrified After Basic Functionality Hidden Behind Paywall |url=https://carbuzz.com/news/audi-q4-e-tron-owner-stunned-by-paywall-block-on-climate-control-feature/#:~:text=When%20a%20feature,not%20been%20purchased%22. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=CarBuzz}}</ref> The lack of a blank button, and message reminding the user of the unpaid feature has caused speculation on whether [[Audi]] was planning to introduce FoD features or not.

===Audi's Response===
While not explicitly responding to the incident, Oliver Hoffman, the head of the Technical Development division at the time, has suggested that FoD will appear more within the future, "With our next generation of electronic architecture, we will bring more offers to 'function on demand,' and you will see year by year we will bring new functions in the cars…A few years ago, there were ideas to generate more revenue on digitalization functions than by selling cars."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Neves |first=Jarryd |date=5 Nov 2023 |title=Audi Going Big With On-Demand Subscription Features |url=https://carbuzz.com/news/audi-going-big-with-on-demand-subscription-features-from-2024/#:~:text=This%20is%20according%20to%20Oliver,A4%2C%20A5%2C%20and%20Q5. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=CarBuzz}}</ref> [[Audi]] insists that the decision to pivot towards FoD was in response to consumer demand.

==Consumer response==

Some users on Reddit, in direct response to the incident, were fearful and frustrated about the possible future of the automotive industry. Many believed this would result in subscriptions being required to access most functions, imagining a reality where many of even the most basic features are locked behind paywalls.<ref>{{Cite web |date=5 Apr 2022 |title=A dashboard button leads to a Reddit reckoning about over-the-air car software |url=https://thenextweb.com/news/a-blank-hvac-button-reveals-a-deeper-fear-about-ota-car-software#:~:text=A%20portal%20to,Raid%20Shadow%20Legends. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=The Next Web}}</ref>

Others were more generally opposed to features that are only available through subscriptions. In a survey conducted by the Cox Automotive, 58% of respondents stated that FoD, atleast initially, would be "too expensive," and 69% stated that if the features were only available via subscription, they would "shop elsewhere."<ref>{{Cite web |date=8 May 2023 |title=Selling Subscription-based Vehicle Features Will Challenge Automakers in Unexpected Ways |url=https://www.coxautoinc.com/market-insights/selling-subscription-based-vehicle-features-will-challenge-automakers-in-unexpected-ways/#:~:text=The%20study%20suggests,the%20research%20shows. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=Cox Automotive}}</ref> However, only 21% were previously aware of FoD, and 65% believe that if free-trials for subscriptions were provided, they'd be more likely to consider a brand.

==See also==

* [[Mercedes-Benz EQS rear-wheel steering requires subscription]]
* [[Mercedes-Benz locks horsepower behind paid subscription]]
* [[Tesla locks battery range behind paywall]]
* [[Tesla locks heated rear seats behind paywall]]
* [[BMW feature lockout scandal]]
* [[BMW's heated seat subscription]]
* [[Software locks]]
* [[Mazda remote-start subscription]]

==References==
{{reflist}}
[[Category:Incidents]]
[[Category:Audi]]

Mullvad

2025-08-21T16:34:18Z

Clippytron: Fixed inconsistencies in spacing

'''Mullvad VPN AB''', or '''Mullvad''', is a Swedish based company created in 2009 by Fredrik Strömberg and Daniel Berntsson. The company is a subsidiary of Amagicom AB, 100% owned by Strömberg and Berntsson. Mullvad initially launched their VPN service in 2009, but since 2021, expanded into developing their own encrypted Domain Name System (DNS) service, browser, and search engine.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-08-15 |title=About |url=https://mullvad.net/en/about |url-status=live |access-date=2025-08-15 |website=mullvad.net}}</ref>

{{CompanyCargo
|Industry=Virtual Private Networks
|Website=https://mullvad.net/
|Logo=Mullvad vpn.png|Founded=2009|ParentCompany=Amagicom AB|Type=Private}}

==Consumer-impact summary==

===Freedom===
Mullvad states: "We value open source" and develops various open-source projects.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-08-15 |title=We Value Open Source |url=https://mullvad.net/en/open-source |access-date=2025-08-15 |website=mullvad.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-08-15 |title=GitHub - Mullvad VPN |url=https://github.com/mullvad/ |access-date=2025-08-15 |website=Github.com}}</ref> The Mullvad VPN App for mobile and desktop is released under a GNU General Public License (GPL) 3.0 which grants irrevocable permission to use, modify, and redistribute under the same license.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2018-01-16 |title=GNU GENERAL PUBLIC LICENSE |url=https://github.com/mullvad/mullvadvpn-app?tab=GPL-3.0-1-ov-file |access-date=2025-08-15 |website=Github.com}}</ref>

Mullvad requires you to sign up to the service to use, however does not require a name, E-Mail address, or other identifiable information. As of 2025, it costs €5 per month.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=2025-02-19 |title=Terms of Service |url=https://mullvad.net/en/help/terms-service |url-status=live |access-date=2025-08-15 |website=mullvad.net}}</ref>

Mullvad states it will never log, modify, redirect, or inject data into a user's traffic. They also state they will never filter or block domains unless specifically requested by the owner of an Internet Protocol (IP) address, or if botnet addresses cause servers to be null routed by hosting providers.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1">{{Cite web |date=2025-08-15 |title=Why Mullvad VPN? |url=https://mullvad.net/en/why-mullvad-vpn |url-status=live |access-date=2025-08-15 |website=mullvad.net}}</ref>

===Privacy===
Mullvad has a strict no-log policy on their services and undergo independent audits regularly to solidify these claims.<ref name=":1" /><ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-08-15 |title=The Mullvad Blog: Audits |url=https://mullvad.net/en/blog/tag/audits |access-date=2025-08-15 |website=mullvad.net}}</ref>

Mullvad does not ask for personal information when signing up for their services, instead they provide the user an account number as an alternative for usernames and passwords.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-05-23 |title=No-logging of user activity policy |url=https://mullvad.net/en/help/no-logging-data-policy |access-date=2025-08-15 |website=mullvad.net}}</ref>

Mullvad provides various methods of payment depending on the level of anonymity desired from the user, including cash, bank wire, Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Monero, [[PayPal]], credit cards through [[Stripe]], Swish, Eps transfer, Bancontact, iDEAL, and Przelewy24.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-08-15 |title=A fair pricing model |url=https://mullvad.net/en/pricing |url-status=live |access-date=2025-08-15 |website=mullvad.net}}</ref>

===Business Model===
Since its inception in 2009, Mullvad has had a fixed price of €5 per month. As of June of 2022, Mullvad removed subscriptions, defined as automatic recurring payments, as a way to increase user privacy by storing less data. As a result of their decision to remove subscriptions: only one-time payments are allowed.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-06-20 |title=We are removing the option to create new subscriptions |url=https://mullvad.net/en/blog/2022/6/20/were-removing-the-option-to-create-new-subscriptions |url-status=live |access-date=2025-08-15 |website=mullvad.net}}</ref>

Mullvad has a very serious policy rejecting paid reviews, influencer sponsorships, and shout-outs as a testament to their integrity. Alternatively, they resort to purchasing ads outdoors, on [[Google]], [[DuckDuckGo Browser|DuckDuckGo]], and the [[Apple App Store]]. Similarly, they reject exchanging money for advertisements and shout-outs on their service applications, website, and blog, and state that any reviews they post are solely of their opinion.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-05-15 |title=Policy on reviews, advertising, influencers, and affiliates |url=https://mullvad.net/en/help/policy-reviews-advertising-and-affiliates |url-status=live |access-date=2025-08-15 |website=mullvad.net}}</ref>

===Market Control===
According to a survey conducted by [https://www.security.org/ security.org], only 2% of the 323 VPN users questioned chose Mullvad VPN.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Cruz |first=Brett |date=2025-07-31 |title=VPN Use in 2025: Trends, Statistics, and Consumer Sentiment |url=https://www.security.org/resources/vpn-consumer-report-annual/ |url-status=live |access-date=2025-08-15 |website=security.org}}</ref> The company 6sense sates that Mullvad VPN retains an estimated 0.03% market share in the industry,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-08-15 |title=Mullvad VPN Market Share |url=https://6sense.com/tech/virtual-private-network-vpn/mullvad-vpn-market-share |url-status=live |access-date=2025-08-15 |website=6sense.com}}</ref> however their methodology for that conclusion is not clearly listed.

Mullvad also provides the service backend for [[Mozilla]] FireFox's VPN.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-09-04 |title=Mozilla Subscription Services {{!}} Terms of Service |url=https://www.mozilla.org/en-US/about/legal/terms/subscription-services/ |url-status=live |access-date=2025-08-15 |website=mozilla.org}}</ref>

==Products==
Mullvad currently has five products packaged for readily available consumer use, including:

*Mullvad VPN - A no-log VPN service used to obfuscate your IP address and increase privacy.
*Mullvad Browser - A browser created in association with the [[Tor]] organization. Out-of-the-box, it includes technology to block third-party cookies, tracking scripts, and browser fingerprints.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-08-15 |title=Free the internet. With the Mullvad Browser. |url=https://mullvad.net/en/browser |url-status=live |access-date=2025-08-15 |website=mullvad.net}}</ref>
*Mullvad Leta - A proxy for the Google Search API which are cached and shared amongst users to obfuscate users' identity, cleared of third-party tracking links.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-06-20 |title=Introducing Mullvad Leta: a search engine used in the Mullvad Browser |url=https://mullvad.net/en/blog/introducing-mullvad-leta-a-search-engine-used-in-the-mullvad-browser |url-status=live |access-date=2025-08-15 |website=mullvad.net}}</ref>
*Mullvad Browser Extension - A more integrated way to use Mullvad VPN inside of your preferred browser. Automatically included in the Mullvad Browser.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-06-13 |title=Mullvad Browser Extension |url=https://mullvad.net/en/help/mullvad-browser-extension |url-status=live |access-date=2025-08-15 |website=mullvad.net}}</ref>
*Encrypted DNS - A DNS service to be used when not connected to a VPN and encrypt your DNS queries to prevent your network or Internet Service Provider (ISP) from snooping in on your searches.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-08-14 |title=DNS over HTTPS and DNS over TLS |url=https://mullvad.net/en/help/mullvad-browser-extension |url-status=live |access-date=2025-08-15 |website=mullvad.net}}</ref>

==Reception==
[https://www.pcmag.com PCMag.com] awarded Mullvad with "Best of the Year - 2020" for "Editor's Choice for inexpensive VPNs."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Stobing |first=Chris |date=2024-09-20 |title=Mullvad VPN Review |url=https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/mullvad-vpn# |access-date=2025-08-15 |website=pcmag.com}}</ref>

A YouTuber and privacy advocate, Mental Outlaw, stated in a video "I just love Mullvad, so that is what I am going to use."<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-04-15 |title=How To Torrent Anonymously With Mullvad VPN |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z9y29Wxo060 |access-date=2025-08-15 |website=youtube.com}}</ref>

The Freedom of the Press Foundation has recommended the use of Mullvad among a short list of other VPN services.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Huerta |first=David |date=2018-06-29 |title=An in-depth guide to choosing a VPN |url=https://freedom.press/digisec/blog/choosing-a-vpn/ |journal=Freedom of the Press Foundation}}</ref>

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]
[[Category:Pro-consumer articles]]

Audi Basic HVAC "Sync" Function Paywalled

2025-08-21T16:19:57Z

Clippytron: /* Consumer response */

{{IncidentCargo
|Company=Audi
|Status=Active
|ArticleType=Product
|Description=Audi charges $758 for an HVAC “Sync” button, which is physically present within the vehicle, but disabled until a payment is made.
}}
{{StubNotice}}
'''[[Audi]]''' equips all vehicles with the optional tri-zone climate control feature with the necessary hardware. Customers who do not purchase the option at the time of sale still receive the hardware, but the feature is disabled via software. Enabling it later via a remote software update costs $758. Reminders prompting a purchase are displayed if a user presses the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) sync button before the feature is unlocked.

==Background==
[[Audi]] is an automotive manufacturer of luxury vehicles based in Germany. Audi is a subsidiary company of '''[[Volkswagen]]'''.

Historically, if a vehicle owner opted out of purchasing a specific feature, any buttons associated with that feature would be replaced with blank plastic panels, often called "blank buttons." Pressing these blank buttons would not activate any functions or mechanisms within the vehicle.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nagaraj |first=Rahul |date=5 Apr 2022 |title=Audi EV owner finds paywalled HVAC function |url=https://www.team-bhp.com/news/audi-ev-owner-finds-paywalled-hvac-function#:~:text=Historically%2C%20cars%20with,for%20the%20same. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=Team-BHP}}</ref>

However, '''[[Features on Demand (FoD)]]''' is becoming increasingly popular among car manufacturers. FoD features are subscription-type features, meaning they can only be enabled with a subscription.

==Incident==
An owner of an Audi Q4 E-Tron opted out of paying for tri-zone climate control, which is an optional add-on in regions outside of the U.S. and U.K., priced at $758.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Stumpf |first=Rob |date=1 Apr 2022 |title=Audi Owner Finds Basic HVAC Function Paywalled After Pressing the Button for It |url=https://www.thedrive.com/news/44967/audi-owner-finds-basic-hvac-function-paywalled-after-pressing-the-button-for-it#:~:text=In%20Denmark%2C%20where%20this%20particular%20owner%20told%20us%20they%E2%80%99re%20based%2C%20the%20add%2Don%20costs%20around%20$758%20(5%2C114%20Kroner).%20The%20owner%20acknowledged%20that%20they%20chose%20against%20purchasing%20it%20but%20didn%E2%80%99t%20expect%20pressing%20the%20button%20to%20display%20a%20message. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=The Drive}}</ref> However, the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) “Sync” button was still physically present within the vehicle. Upon pressing the button, a message would appear on the infotainment screen, stating “the function has not been purchased.”<ref>{{Cite web |date=2 Apr 2022 |title=Audi Driver Horrified After Basic Functionality Hidden Behind Paywall |url=https://carbuzz.com/news/audi-q4-e-tron-owner-stunned-by-paywall-block-on-climate-control-feature/#:~:text=When%20a%20feature,not%20been%20purchased%22. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=CarBuzz}}</ref> The lack of a blank button, and message reminding the user of the unpaid feature has caused speculation on whether [[Audi]] was planning to introduce FoD features or not.

===Audi's Response===
While not explicitly responding to the incident, Oliver Hoffman, the head of the Technical Development division at the time, has suggested that FoD will appear more within the future, "With our next generation of electronic architecture, we will bring more offers to 'function on demand,' and you will see year by year we will bring new functions in the cars…A few years ago, there were ideas to generate more revenue on digitalization functions than by selling cars."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Neves |first=Jarryd |date=5 Nov 2023 |title=Audi Going Big With On-Demand Subscription Features |url=https://carbuzz.com/news/audi-going-big-with-on-demand-subscription-features-from-2024/#:~:text=This%20is%20according%20to%20Oliver,A4%2C%20A5%2C%20and%20Q5. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=CarBuzz}}</ref> [[Audi]] insists that the decision to pivot towards FoD was in response to consumer demand.

==Consumer response==

Some users on Reddit, in direct response to the incident, were fearful and frustrated about the possible future of the automotive industry. Many believed this would result in subscriptions being required to access most functions, imagining a reality where many of even the most basic features are locked behind paywalls.<ref>{{Cite web |date=5 Apr 2022 |title=A dashboard button leads to a Reddit reckoning about over-the-air car software |url=https://thenextweb.com/news/a-blank-hvac-button-reveals-a-deeper-fear-about-ota-car-software#:~:text=A%20portal%20to,Raid%20Shadow%20Legends. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=The Next Web}}</ref>

Others were more generally opposed to features that are only available through subscriptions. In a survey conducted by the Cox Automotive, 58% of respondents stated that FoD, atleast initially, would be "too expensive," and 69% stated that if the features were only available via subscription, they would "shop elsewhere."<ref>{{Cite web |date=8 May 2023 |title=Selling Subscription-based Vehicle Features Will Challenge Automakers in Unexpected Ways |url=https://www.coxautoinc.com/market-insights/selling-subscription-based-vehicle-features-will-challenge-automakers-in-unexpected-ways/#:~:text=The%20study%20suggests,the%20research%20shows. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=Cox Automotive}}</ref> However, only 21% were previously aware of FoD, and 65% believe that if free-trials for subscriptions were provided, they'd be more likely to consider a brand.
==References==
{{reflist}}
[[Category:Incidents]]
[[Category:Audi]]

Audi Basic HVAC "Sync" Function Paywalled

2025-08-21T09:55:27Z

Clippytron: Fixed a sentence and several links to main page

{{IncidentCargo
|Company=Audi
|Status=Active
|ArticleType=Product
|Description=Audi charges $758 for an HVAC “Sync” button, which is physically present within the vehicle, but disabled until a payment is made.
}}
{{StubNotice}}
'''[[Audi]]''' equips all vehicles with the optional tri-zone climate control feature with the necessary hardware. Customers who do not purchase the option at the time of sale still receive the hardware, but the feature is disabled via software. Enabling it later via a remote software update costs $758. Reminders prompting a purchase are displayed if a user presses the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) sync button before the feature is unlocked.

==Background==
[[Audi]] is an automotive manufacturer of luxury vehicles based in Germany. Audi is a subsidiary company of '''[[Volkswagen]]'''.

Historically, if a vehicle owner opted out of purchasing a specific feature, any buttons associated with that feature would be replaced with blank plastic panels, often called "blank buttons." Pressing these blank buttons would not activate any functions or mechanisms within the vehicle.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nagaraj |first=Rahul |date=5 Apr 2022 |title=Audi EV owner finds paywalled HVAC function |url=https://www.team-bhp.com/news/audi-ev-owner-finds-paywalled-hvac-function#:~:text=Historically%2C%20cars%20with,for%20the%20same. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=Team-BHP}}</ref>

However, '''[[Features on Demand (FoD)]]''' is becoming increasingly popular among car manufacturers. FoD features are subscription-type features, meaning they can only be enabled with a subscription.

==Incident==
An owner of an Audi Q4 E-Tron opted out of paying for tri-zone climate control, which is an optional add-on in regions outside of the U.S. and U.K., priced at $758.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Stumpf |first=Rob |date=1 Apr 2022 |title=Audi Owner Finds Basic HVAC Function Paywalled After Pressing the Button for It |url=https://www.thedrive.com/news/44967/audi-owner-finds-basic-hvac-function-paywalled-after-pressing-the-button-for-it#:~:text=In%20Denmark%2C%20where%20this%20particular%20owner%20told%20us%20they%E2%80%99re%20based%2C%20the%20add%2Don%20costs%20around%20$758%20(5%2C114%20Kroner).%20The%20owner%20acknowledged%20that%20they%20chose%20against%20purchasing%20it%20but%20didn%E2%80%99t%20expect%20pressing%20the%20button%20to%20display%20a%20message. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=The Drive}}</ref> However, the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) “Sync” button was still physically present within the vehicle. Upon pressing the button, a message would appear on the infotainment screen, stating “the function has not been purchased.”<ref>{{Cite web |date=2 Apr 2022 |title=Audi Driver Horrified After Basic Functionality Hidden Behind Paywall |url=https://carbuzz.com/news/audi-q4-e-tron-owner-stunned-by-paywall-block-on-climate-control-feature/#:~:text=When%20a%20feature,not%20been%20purchased%22. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=CarBuzz}}</ref> The lack of a blank button, and message reminding the user of the unpaid feature has caused speculation on whether [[Audi]] was planning to introduce FoD features or not.

===Audi's Response===
While not explicitly responding to the incident, Oliver Hoffman, the head of the Technical Development division at the time, has suggested that FoD will appear more within the future, "With our next generation of electronic architecture, we will bring more offers to 'function on demand,' and you will see year by year we will bring new functions in the cars…A few years ago, there were ideas to generate more revenue on digitalization functions than by selling cars."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Neves |first=Jarryd |date=5 Nov 2023 |title=Audi Going Big With On-Demand Subscription Features |url=https://carbuzz.com/news/audi-going-big-with-on-demand-subscription-features-from-2024/#:~:text=This%20is%20according%20to%20Oliver,A4%2C%20A5%2C%20and%20Q5. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=CarBuzz}}</ref> [[Audi]] insists that the decision to pivot towards FoD was in response to consumer demand.

==Consumer response==

Some users on Reddit, in direct response to the incident, were fearful and frustrated about the possible future of the automotive industry. Many believed this would result in subscriptions being required to access most functions, imagining a reality where many of even the most basic features are locked behind paywalls.<ref>{{Cite web |date=5 Apr 2022 |title=A dashboard button leads to a Reddit reckoning about over-the-air car software |url=https://thenextweb.com/news/a-blank-hvac-button-reveals-a-deeper-fear-about-ota-car-software#:~:text=A%20portal%20to,Raid%20Shadow%20Legends. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=The Next Web}}</ref>

Others were more generally opposed features that are only available through subscriptions. In a survey conducted by the Cox Automotive, 58% of respondents stated that FoD, atleast initially, would be "too expensive," and 69% stated that if the features were only available via subscription, they would "shop elsewhere."<ref>{{Cite web |date=8 May 2023 |title=Selling Subscription-based Vehicle Features Will Challenge Automakers in Unexpected Ways |url=https://www.coxautoinc.com/market-insights/selling-subscription-based-vehicle-features-will-challenge-automakers-in-unexpected-ways/#:~:text=The%20study%20suggests,the%20research%20shows. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=Cox Automotive}}</ref> However, only 21% were previously aware of FoD, and 65% believe that if free-trials for subscriptions were provided, they'd be more likely to consider a brand.
==References==
{{reflist}}
[[Category:Incidents]]
[[Category:Audi]]

Audi

2025-08-21T09:48:54Z

Clippytron: Added links

{{CompanyCargo
|Type=Subsidiary
|ParentCompany=Volkswagen|Website=https://www.audiusa.com/|Founded=July 16, 1909|Industry=Automotive|Logo=Audi.jpg}}

[https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audi Audi] is a Germany-based automotive manufactuer owned by [[Volkswagen]]. Audi was founded on July 16, 1909 by August Horch in Zwickau, Germany.

==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]].
===Basic HVAC "Sync" Function Paywalled===
{{Main|Audi Basic HVAC "Sync" Function Paywalled}}
An owner of an Audi Q4 E-Tron opted out of paying for tri-zone climate control, an optional add-on in regions outside of the U.S. and U.K. that costs $758. However, the HVAC "Sync" button was still present within the vehicle, and upon being pressed, displayed a message on the infotainment screen that read "the function has not been purchased." This incident foreshadowed Audi's pivot towards subscription-based car features.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Stumpf |first=Rob |date=1 Apr 2022 |title=Audi Owner Finds Basic HVAC Function Paywalled After Pressing the Button for It |url=https://www.thedrive.com/news/44967/audi-owner-finds-basic-hvac-function-paywalled-after-pressing-the-button-for-it#:~:text=In%20Denmark%2C%20where%20this%20particular%20owner%20told%20us%20they%E2%80%99re%20based%2C%20the%20add%2Don%20costs%20around%20$758%20(5%2C114%20Kroner).%20The%20owner%20acknowledged%20that%20they%20chose%20against%20purchasing%20it%20but%20didn%E2%80%99t%20expect%20pressing%20the%20button%20to%20display%20a%20message. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=The Drive}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2 Apr 2022 |title=Audi Driver Horrified After Basic Functionality Hidden Behind Paywall |url=https://carbuzz.com/news/audi-q4-e-tron-owner-stunned-by-paywall-block-on-climate-control-feature/#:~:text=When%20a%20feature,not%20been%20purchased%22. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=CarBuzz}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Gilboy |first=James |date=3 Nov 2023 |title=Audi Will Paywall More Software Features Starting Next Year |url=https://www.thedrive.com/news/audi-will-paywall-more-software-features-in-future-cars |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=The Drive}}</ref>
==See also==

*[[Volkswagen]]
*[[Mercedes Benz]]
*[[Toyota]]
*[[BMW]]
*[[Ford]]
*[[Tesla, Inc.]]
*[[General Motors]]

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]

Audi

2025-08-21T09:46:33Z

Clippytron: Added a few more automotive companies

{{CompanyCargo
|Type=Subsidiary
|ParentCompany=Volkswagen|Website=https://www.audiusa.com/|Founded=July 16, 1909|Industry=Automotive|Logo=Audi.jpg}}

Audi is a Germany-based automotive manufactuer owned by Volkswagen. Audi was founded on July 16, 1909 by August Horch in Zwickau, Germany.

==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]].
===Basic HVAC "Sync" Function Paywalled===
{{Main|Audi Basic HVAC "Sync" Function Paywalled}}
An owner of an Audi Q4 E-Tron opted out of paying for tri-zone climate control, an optional add-on in regions outside of the U.S. and U.K. that costs $758. However, the HVAC "Sync" button was still present within the vehicle, and upon being pressed, displayed a message on the infotainment screen that read "the function has not been purchased." This incident foreshadowed Audi's pivot towards subscription-based car features.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Stumpf |first=Rob |date=1 Apr 2022 |title=Audi Owner Finds Basic HVAC Function Paywalled After Pressing the Button for It |url=https://www.thedrive.com/news/44967/audi-owner-finds-basic-hvac-function-paywalled-after-pressing-the-button-for-it#:~:text=In%20Denmark%2C%20where%20this%20particular%20owner%20told%20us%20they%E2%80%99re%20based%2C%20the%20add%2Don%20costs%20around%20$758%20(5%2C114%20Kroner).%20The%20owner%20acknowledged%20that%20they%20chose%20against%20purchasing%20it%20but%20didn%E2%80%99t%20expect%20pressing%20the%20button%20to%20display%20a%20message. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=The Drive}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2 Apr 2022 |title=Audi Driver Horrified After Basic Functionality Hidden Behind Paywall |url=https://carbuzz.com/news/audi-q4-e-tron-owner-stunned-by-paywall-block-on-climate-control-feature/#:~:text=When%20a%20feature,not%20been%20purchased%22. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=CarBuzz}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Gilboy |first=James |date=3 Nov 2023 |title=Audi Will Paywall More Software Features Starting Next Year |url=https://www.thedrive.com/news/audi-will-paywall-more-software-features-in-future-cars |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=The Drive}}</ref>
==See also==

*[[Volkswagen]]
*[[Mercedes Benz]]
*[[Toyota]]
*[[BMW]]
*[[Ford]]
*[[Tesla, Inc.]]
*[[General Motors]]

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]

Audi

2025-08-21T09:37:57Z

Clippytron: Added information on Audi

{{CompanyCargo
|Type=Subsidiary
|ParentCompany=Volkswagen|Website=https://www.audiusa.com/|Founded=July 16, 1909|Industry=Automotive|Logo=Audi.jpg}}

Audi is a Germany-based automotive manufactuer owned by Volkswagen. Audi was founded on July 16, 1909 by August Horch in Zwickau, Germany.

==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]].
===Basic HVAC "Sync" Function Paywalled===
{{Main|Audi Basic HVAC "Sync" Function Paywalled}}
An owner of an Audi Q4 E-Tron opted out of paying for tri-zone climate control, an optional add-on in regions outside of the U.S. and U.K. that costs $758. However, the HVAC "Sync" button was still present within the vehicle, and upon being pressed, displayed a message on the infotainment screen that read "the function has not been purchased." This incident foreshadowed Audi's pivot towards subscription-based car features.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Stumpf |first=Rob |date=1 Apr 2022 |title=Audi Owner Finds Basic HVAC Function Paywalled After Pressing the Button for It |url=https://www.thedrive.com/news/44967/audi-owner-finds-basic-hvac-function-paywalled-after-pressing-the-button-for-it#:~:text=In%20Denmark%2C%20where%20this%20particular%20owner%20told%20us%20they%E2%80%99re%20based%2C%20the%20add%2Don%20costs%20around%20$758%20(5%2C114%20Kroner).%20The%20owner%20acknowledged%20that%20they%20chose%20against%20purchasing%20it%20but%20didn%E2%80%99t%20expect%20pressing%20the%20button%20to%20display%20a%20message. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=The Drive}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2 Apr 2022 |title=Audi Driver Horrified After Basic Functionality Hidden Behind Paywall |url=https://carbuzz.com/news/audi-q4-e-tron-owner-stunned-by-paywall-block-on-climate-control-feature/#:~:text=When%20a%20feature,not%20been%20purchased%22. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=CarBuzz}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Gilboy |first=James |date=3 Nov 2023 |title=Audi Will Paywall More Software Features Starting Next Year |url=https://www.thedrive.com/news/audi-will-paywall-more-software-features-in-future-cars |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=The Drive}}</ref>
==See also==

* [[Volkswagen]]
* [[Mercedes Benz]]
* [[Toyota]]

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]

Audi

2025-08-21T08:54:44Z

Clippytron: Created page with "{{CompanyCargo |Type=Subsidiary }} {{Ph-C-Int}} ==Consumer-impact summary== {{Ph-C-CIS}} ==Incidents== {{Ph-C-Inc}} This is a list of all consumer-protection incidents this company is involved in. Any incidents not mentioned here can be found in the {{PAGENAME}} category. ===Example incident one (''date'')=== {{Main|link to the main article}} Short summary of the incident (could be the same as the summary preceding the article..."

{{CompanyCargo
|Type=Subsidiary
}}
{{Ph-C-Int}}

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

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

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]].
===Example incident one (''date'')===
{{Main|link to the main article}}
Short summary of the incident (could be the same as the summary preceding the article).
===Example incident two (''date'')===
...

==Products==
{{Ph-C-P}}

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

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]

Audi Basic HVAC "Sync" Function Paywalled

2025-08-21T05:57:00Z

Clippytron: Fixed reference that went to the same link as another

{{IncidentCargo
|Company=Audi
|Status=Active
|ArticleType=Product
|Description=Audi charges $758 for an HVAC “Sync” button, which is physically present within the vehicle, but disabled until a payment is made.
}}
{{StubNotice}}
Audi charges $758 for an HVAC “Sync” button, which is physically present within the vehicle, but disabled until a payment is made. Reminders are displayed when the button is pressed before payment.

==Background==
Audi is an automotive manufacturer of luxury vehicles, which is based in Germany. Audi is a subsidiary company of Volkswagen.

Historically, if a vehicle owner opts out of purchasing a specific feature or function within the vehicle, any buttons related to the feature would be replaced with blank pieces of plastic ("blank buttons").<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nagaraj |first=Rahul |date=5 Apr 2022 |title=Audi EV owner finds paywalled HVAC function |url=https://www.team-bhp.com/news/audi-ev-owner-finds-paywalled-hvac-function#:~:text=Historically%2C%20cars%20with,for%20the%20same. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=Team-BHP}}</ref> Pressing these blank buttons would not trigger any functions or mechanisms within the vehicle.

However, Features on Demand (FoD) is becoming increasingly popular among car manufacturers. FoD features are subscription-type features, meaning they can only be enabled with a subscription.

==Incident==
An owner of an Audi Q4 E-Tron opted out of paying for tri-zone climate control, which is an optional add-on in regions outside of the U.S. and U.K., priced at $758.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Stumpf |first=Rob |date=1 Apr 2022 |title=Audi Owner Finds Basic HVAC Function Paywalled After Pressing the Button for It |url=https://www.thedrive.com/news/44967/audi-owner-finds-basic-hvac-function-paywalled-after-pressing-the-button-for-it#:~:text=In%20Denmark%2C%20where%20this%20particular%20owner%20told%20us%20they%E2%80%99re%20based%2C%20the%20add%2Don%20costs%20around%20$758%20(5%2C114%20Kroner).%20The%20owner%20acknowledged%20that%20they%20chose%20against%20purchasing%20it%20but%20didn%E2%80%99t%20expect%20pressing%20the%20button%20to%20display%20a%20message. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=The Drive}}</ref> However, the HVAC(Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) “Sync” button was still physically present within the vehicle. Upon pressing the button, a message would appear on the infotainment screen, stating “the function has not been purchased.”<ref>{{Cite web |date=2 Apr 2022 |title=Audi Driver Horrified After Basic Functionality Hidden Behind Paywall |url=https://carbuzz.com/news/audi-q4-e-tron-owner-stunned-by-paywall-block-on-climate-control-feature/#:~:text=When%20a%20feature,not%20been%20purchased%22. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=CarBuzz}}</ref> The lack of a blank button, and message reminding the user of the unpaid feature has caused speculation on whether Audi was planning to introduce FoD features or not.

===Audi's Response===
While not explicitly responding to the incident, Oliver Hoffman, the head of the Technical Development division at the time, has suggested that FoD will appear more within the future, "With our next generation of electronic architecture, we will bring more offers to 'function on demand,' and you will see year by year we will bring new functions in the cars…A few years ago, there were ideas to generate more revenue on digitalization functions than by selling cars."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Neves |first=Jarryd |date=5 Nov 2023 |title=Audi Going Big With On-Demand Subscription Features |url=https://carbuzz.com/news/audi-going-big-with-on-demand-subscription-features-from-2024/#:~:text=This%20is%20according%20to%20Oliver,A4%2C%20A5%2C%20and%20Q5. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=CarBuzz}}</ref> Audi insists that the decision to pivot towards FoD was in response to consumer demand.

==Consumer response==

Some users on Reddit, in direct response to the incident, were fearful and frustrated about the possible future of the automotive industry. Many believed this would result in subscriptions being required to access most functions, imagining a reality where many of even the most basic features are locked behind paywalls.<ref>{{Cite web |date=5 Apr 2022 |title=A dashboard button leads to a Reddit reckoning about over-the-air car software |url=https://thenextweb.com/news/a-blank-hvac-button-reveals-a-deeper-fear-about-ota-car-software#:~:text=A%20portal%20to,Raid%20Shadow%20Legends. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=The Next Web}}</ref>

Others were more generally opposed features that are only available through subscriptions. In a survey conducted by the Cox Automotive, 58% of respondents stated that FoD, atleast initially, would be "too expensive," and 69% stated that if the features were only available via subscription, that they'd "shop elsewhere."<ref>{{Cite web |date=8 May 2023 |title=Selling Subscription-based Vehicle Features Will Challenge Automakers in Unexpected Ways |url=https://www.coxautoinc.com/market-insights/selling-subscription-based-vehicle-features-will-challenge-automakers-in-unexpected-ways/#:~:text=The%20study%20suggests,the%20research%20shows. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=Cox Automotive}}</ref> However, only 21% were previously aware of FoD, and 65% believe that if free-trials for subscriptions were provided, they'd be more likely to consider a brand.
==References==
{{reflist}}

{{Ph-I-C}}

Audi Basic HVAC "Sync" Function Paywalled

2025-08-21T05:53:11Z

Clippytron: Added a bunch of information for this stub

{{IncidentCargo
|Company=Audi
|Status=Active
|ArticleType=Product
|Description=Audi charges $758 for an HVAC “Sync” button, which is physically present within the vehicle, but disabled until a payment is made.
}}
{{StubNotice}}
Audi charges $758 for an HVAC “Sync” button, which is physically present within the vehicle, but disabled until a payment is made. Reminders are displayed when the button is pressed before payment.

==Background==
Audi is an automotive manufacturer of luxury vehicles, which is based in Germany. Audi is a subsidiary company of Volkswagen.

Historically, if a vehicle owner opts out of purchasing a specific feature or function within the vehicle, any buttons related to the feature would be replaced with blank pieces of plastic ("blank buttons").<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nagaraj |first=Rahul |date=5 Apr 2022 |title=Audi EV owner finds paywalled HVAC function |url=https://www.team-bhp.com/news/audi-ev-owner-finds-paywalled-hvac-function#:~:text=Historically%2C%20cars%20with,for%20the%20same. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=Team-BHP}}</ref> Pressing these blank buttons would not trigger any functions or mechanisms within the vehicle.

However, Features on Demand (FoD) is becoming increasingly popular among car manufacturers. FoD features are subscription-type features, meaning they can only be enabled with a subscription.

==Incident==
An owner of an Audi Q4 E-Tron opted out of paying for tri-zone climate control, which is an optional add-on in regions outside of the U.S. and U.K., priced at $758.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Stumpf |first=Rob |date=1 Apr 2022 |title=Audi Owner Finds Basic HVAC Function Paywalled After Pressing the Button for It |url=https://www.thedrive.com/news/44967/audi-owner-finds-basic-hvac-function-paywalled-after-pressing-the-button-for-it#:~:text=In%20Denmark%2C%20where%20this%20particular%20owner%20told%20us%20they%E2%80%99re%20based%2C%20the%20add%2Don%20costs%20around%20$758%20(5%2C114%20Kroner).%20The%20owner%20acknowledged%20that%20they%20chose%20against%20purchasing%20it%20but%20didn%E2%80%99t%20expect%20pressing%20the%20button%20to%20display%20a%20message. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=The Drive}}</ref> However, the HVAC(Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) “Sync” button was still physically present within the vehicle. Upon pressing the button, a message would appear on the infotainment screen, stating “the function has not been purchased.”<ref>{{Cite web |date=2 Apr 2022 |title=Audi Driver Horrified After Basic Functionality Hidden Behind Paywall |url=https://www.thedrive.com/news/44967/audi-owner-finds-basic-hvac-function-paywalled-after-pressing-the-button-for-it#:~:text=In%20Denmark%2C%20where%20this%20particular%20owner%20told%20us%20they%E2%80%99re%20based%2C%20the%20add%2Don%20costs%20around%20$758%20(5%2C114%20Kroner).%20The%20owner%20acknowledged%20that%20they%20chose%20against%20purchasing%20it%20but%20didn%E2%80%99t%20expect%20pressing%20the%20button%20to%20display%20a%20message. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=CarBuzz}}</ref> The lack of a blank button, and message reminding the user of the unpaid feature has caused speculation on whether Audi was planning to introduce FoD features or not.

===Audi's Response===
While not explicitly responding to the incident, Oliver Hoffman, the head of the Technical Development division at the time, has suggested that FoD will appear more within the future, "With our next generation of electronic architecture, we will bring more offers to 'function on demand,' and you will see year by year we will bring new functions in the cars…A few years ago, there were ideas to generate more revenue on digitalization functions than by selling cars."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Neves |first=Jarryd |date=5 Nov 2023 |title=Audi Going Big With On-Demand Subscription Features |url=https://carbuzz.com/news/audi-going-big-with-on-demand-subscription-features-from-2024/#:~:text=This%20is%20according%20to%20Oliver,A4%2C%20A5%2C%20and%20Q5. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=CarBuzz}}</ref> Audi insists that the decision to pivot towards FoD was in response to consumer demand.

==Consumer response==

Some users on Reddit, in direct response to the incident, were fearful and frustrated about the possible future of the automotive industry. Many believed this would result in subscriptions being required to access most functions, imagining a reality where many of even the most basic features are locked behind paywalls.<ref>{{Cite web |date=5 Apr 2022 |title=A dashboard button leads to a Reddit reckoning about over-the-air car software |url=https://thenextweb.com/news/a-blank-hvac-button-reveals-a-deeper-fear-about-ota-car-software#:~:text=A%20portal%20to,Raid%20Shadow%20Legends. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=The Next Web}}</ref>

Others were more generally opposed features that are only available through subscriptions. In a survey conducted by the Cox Automotive, 58% of respondents stated that FoD, atleast initially, would be "too expensive," and 69% stated that if the features were only available via subscription, that they'd "shop elsewhere."<ref>{{Cite web |date=8 May 2023 |title=Selling Subscription-based Vehicle Features Will Challenge Automakers in Unexpected Ways |url=https://www.coxautoinc.com/market-insights/selling-subscription-based-vehicle-features-will-challenge-automakers-in-unexpected-ways/#:~:text=The%20study%20suggests,the%20research%20shows. |access-date=21 Aug 2025 |website=Cox Automotive}}</ref> However, only 21% were previously aware of FoD, and 65% believe that if free-trials for subscriptions were provided, they'd be more likely to consider a brand.
==References==
{{reflist}}

{{Ph-I-C}}

Audi Basic HVAC "Sync" Function Paywalled

2025-08-21T04:07:30Z

Clippytron: Created the page.

{{IncidentCargo
|Company=Audi
|Status=Active
|ArticleType=Product
|Description=Audi charges $758 for an HVAC “Sync” button, which is physically present within the vehicle, but disabled until a payment is made.
}}
{{Ph-I-Int}}
==Background==
{{Ph-I-B}}

==[Incident]==
{{Ph-I-I}}

===[Company]'s response===
{{Ph-I-ComR}}

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

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

==References==
{{reflist}}

{{Ph-I-C}}

Bitly QR Code Preview Page Advertising

2025-08-17T23:47:44Z

Clippytron: Added more information and sources

{{StubNotice}}
{{IncidentCargo
|Company=Bitly
|StartDate=2025-02
|Status=Active
|Product=QR-Code-Generator.com, Bitly links
|ArticleType=Service
|Type=Terms of Service
|Description=Bitly has introduced "preview pages" for QR Codes and Bitly links, which may contain advertising, before directing users to the destination link.
}}[[Bitly]] has introduced "preview pages" for QR code and Bitly links, which may contain advertising, before users are directed to the destination link. Users must subscribe to a paid plan in order to remove the preview page.

==Background==
[[Bitly]] is a platform that manages links and shortens URLs.<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 Aug 2023 |title=7 Powerful Link Management Tools to Boost Your Marketing Efforts |url=https://bitly.com/blog/link-management-tools/ |access-date=17 Aug 2025 |website=Bitly}}</ref> Users have often praised [[Bitly]] for its convenience and significant amount of features that allow Bitly links (links shortened with [[Bitly]]) to be properly managed, shortened, and/or branded.<ref>{{Cite web |title=What is a Bitly Link? |url=https://linklyhq.com/blog/bitly-link#:~:text=1.%20Conciseness,optimize%20their%20strategies. |access-date=17 Aug 2025 |website=Linkly}}</ref>

However, Bitly links have been used several times in the past by bad actors to shorten malicious URLs and spread malware.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Bitly Transparency Report |url=https://bitly.com/pages/transparency-report#:~:text=Combating%20abuse,our%20service%20can%20be%20used. |access-date=17 Aug 2025 |website=Bitly}}</ref> Bitly links previously sent the user directly to the destination with no interstitial pages. While convenient for regular users of the platform, this convenience allows bad actors to set up potential threats such as phishing attacks easily.<ref>{{Cite web |date=1 Mar 2024 |title=Rise in Deceptive PDF: The Gateway to Malicious Payloads |url=https://www.mcafee.com/blogs/other-blogs/mcafee-labs/rise-in-deceptive-pdf-the-gateway-to-malicious-payloads/#:~:text=The%20URL%20highlighted%20in%20the%20red%20box,they%20trick%20users%20into%20revealing%20sensitive%20information. |access-date=17 Aug 2025 |website=McAfee}}</ref>

==Incident==
[[File:Bitly's Terms of Service Change.jpg|alt=An email explaining the change coming to Bitly's Terms of Service.|thumb|Bitly's Terms of Service change announcement email, explaining the upcoming "Preview Pages"]]
In early 2025, [[Bitly]] changed its terms of service (ToS) to implement "Destination Previews," or more commonly referred to as "preview pages," that appear before the user is directed to the destination of a QR code or Bitly link.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Ernie |date=7 Feb 2025 |title=Broken Bits |url=https://tedium.co/2025/02/07/bitly-terms-of-service-change/#:~:text=The%20infamous%20terms%20of%20service,selling%20is%20a%20decaying%20commodity. |access-date=15 Aug 2025 |website=Tedium}}</ref> These pages, explained in an email sent to users, allow the user to preview the content of the page before visiting the website. However, if the user who shared the Bitly link is currently using a free plan, advertisements will appear on the preview page of their link, which can only be disabled with a subscription to a paid plan.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Chang |first=Megan |title=Why are there ads on my links? |url=https://support.bitly.com/hc/en-us/articles/32874287800333-Why-are-there-ads-on-my-links#:~:text=Bitly%20is%20now%20using%20ads,of%20our%20paid%20plans%20here. |access-date=17 Aug 2025 |website=Bitly Support}}</ref>

[[Bitly]] has claimed that the advertising is necessary to "continue delivering free plans at no cost to our users."<ref name=":1" /> This claim suggests that the advertisements are required for users to continue to have the option to use [[Bitly]] on a free plan.

==Consumer response==
While the extra click required to view content may potentially frustrate some users,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Harper |first=Alex |date=14 Feb 2025 |title=Goodbye Bitly… New Preview Page is a Major Step Back |url=https://webdesignerdepot.com/goodbye-bit-ly-new-preview-page-is-a-major-step-back/#:~:text=The%20Painful%20Reality,by%20the%20delay. |access-date=17 Aug 2025 |website=Web Designer Depot}}</ref> the main grievance of the new feature was the advertising that may appear on the preview page.<ref name=":0" /> Many frustrated users have claimed that [[Bitly]] has lost the convenience it was once known for, and has begun using tactics that force the user to pay a sum of money to bring it back.

While some users found [[Bitly]]'s convenient, direct links more trustworthy, others claim the addition of preview pages has increased the trustworthiness of Bitly links. URL shortening is commonly used by bad actors to hide malicious links that may otherwise be detected.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Papez |first=Neko |date=4 Jan 2024 |title=URL shortening allows threats to evade URL filtering and categorization tools |url=https://www.menlosecurity.com/blog/url-shortening-allows-threats-to-evade-url-filtering-and-categorization-tools#:~:text=Threat%20actors%20have,by%20Menlo%20Labs. |access-date=17 Aug 2025 |website=Menlo Security}}</ref> [[Bitly]]'s ToS change now includes a warning interstitial that appears on potentially dangerous links, and a preview of the destination URL, which some have claimed makes Bitly links more trustworthy and safe.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Golombick |first=Chantelle |last2=Glamoslija |first2=Katarina |last3=Davidson |first3=Kate |date=3 Jun 2025 |title=Is Bitly safe? What to know before clicking short links |url=https://www.expressvpn.com/blog/bit-ly-malware-spam/#:~:text=Many%20browsers%20use,or%20credential%20theft. |access-date=17 Aug 2025 |website=ExpressVPN}}</ref>

==References==
{{reflist}}

{{Ph-I-C}}

Bitly QR Code Preview Page Advertising

2025-08-17T09:22:19Z

Clippytron: fixed random capital E

Bitly QR Code Preview Page Advertising

2025-08-17T09:20:03Z

Clippytron: Some small fixes

Bitly QR Code Preview Page Advertising

2025-08-17T09:03:15Z

Clippytron: Added much more information and sources on the incident, along with a picture

File:Bitly's Terms of Service Change.jpg

2025-08-17T08:42:37Z

Clippytron:

An email from Bitly explaining the upcoming change to its Terms of Service, explaining the implementation of "preview pages."

YouTube age verification

2025-08-16T20:49:25Z

Clippytron: Added sources from Youtube, fixed the date, and added a brief description.

{{ToneWarning}}
{{Incomplete}}
{{IncidentCargo
|StartDate=2025-07-30
|Status=Active
|ProductLine=YouTube
|Product=Youtube
|ArticleType=Service
|Type=Digital restrictions
|Description=YouTube is requiring Users to give their government id to verify that they are adults, otherwise Users will be locked out of content.
}}
[[YouTube]] has implemented an AI-powered age verification system, which will scan the user's channel history to determine their age. If the user is deemed to be under the age of 18, they will lose access to age-restricted videos and certain site features, unless a government-issued ID or video verification is provided.

==Background==
[[YouTube]] is a social media site created on February 14th, 2005.<ref>{{Cite web |title=YouTube turns 20! The numbers behind the platform |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/ztq2g2p |url-status=live |access-date=14 Aug 2025 |website=BBC Bitesize}}</ref> It allows users to upload and view videos from their electronic devices. As the platform has grown in popularity, some content creators have begun to make significant amounts of revenue from their videos, with some creators able to use their earnings as a primary source of income.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Creator Economy |url=https://www.youtube.com/howyoutubeworks/creator-economy/#:~:text=Revenue%20Sharing,the%20Shorts%20Feed. |access-date=16 Aug 2025 |website=YouTube}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Molenaar |first=Koba |title=15 of the Most Popular Content Creators on YouTube to Check Out |url=https://influencermarketinghub.com/content-creators-youtube/ |url-status=live |access-date=14 Aug 2025 |website=Influencer Marketing Hub}}</ref>

==YouTube's Government ID Requirement==
On July 29th, 2025, in response to the [[UK Online Safety Act|UK's Online Safety Act]],<ref>{{Cite web |title=Online Safety Act: explainer |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/online-safety-act-explainer/online-safety-act-explainer |url-status=live |access-date=14 Aug 2025 |website=GOV.UK}}</ref> [[YouTube]] announced that it will be testing a new feature on its platform which scans each user's channel history (including viewed videos) with AI, to which in case of determination that the user is underage (regardless of birthdate in [[Google]] account), a government issued ID or video verification will be required to verify that the user is at least 18 years old.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Beser |first=James |date=29 Jul 2025 |title=Extending our built-in protections to more teens on YouTube |url=https://blog.youtube/news-and-events/extending-our-built-in-protections-to-more-teens-on-youtube/#:~:text=We%20will%20use,for%20younger%20users. |access-date=16 Aug 2025 |website=YouTube Official Blog}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Ingram |first=Michael |date=30 Jul 2025 |title=YouTube is Rolling Out A New Controversial Feature |url=https://gamerant.com/youtube-new-age-verification-feature-id-recognition/ |url-status=live |access-date=14 Aug 2025 |website=GameRant}}</ref> If the user refuses, their account will be unable to access age restricted, "potentially mature content" (which has been shown to include several videos critical of [[Google]] and [[YouTube]]{{Citation needed}}, whether by coincidence or not) and content deemed as problematic for repetitive consumption, on top of losing access to many creator features and abilities, if they were activated prior.

YouTube has [https://x.com/TeamYouTube/status/1950958354349633946 responded] stating that "This won’t be required for all users. We’ve always had the option for age verification via ID or credit card if someone is incorrectly estimated to be under 18." This most likely refers to their eligibility system for advanced creator features, of which ID and/or video verification is a method of gaining access.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Learn about feature access for YouTube Creators |url=https://support.google.com/youtube/answer/9890437?hl=en |url-status=live |access-date=16 Aug 2025 |website=YouTube Help}}</ref>

==Consumer response==
Some users have signed a [https://www.change.org/p/youtube-s-ai-tracks-everything-you-watch-stop-this-now Change.org petition] and have contacted YouTube to revoke this new requirement.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Belanger |first=Ashley |date=12 Aug 2025 |title=YouTube backlash begins: “Why is AI combing through every single video I watch?” |url=https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2025/08/50k-youtubers-rage-against-ai-spying-that-could-expose-identities/ |url-status=live |access-date=14 Aug 2025 |website=Ars Technica}}</ref> The petition has not received a response from YouTube as of the time of writing.

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

Bitly QR Code Preview Page Advertising

2025-08-15T07:49:51Z

Clippytron: Brief description

Bitly QR Code Preview Page Advertising

2025-08-15T07:34:22Z

Clippytron: Created the page

{{IncidentCargo
|Company=Bitly
|StartDate=2025-02
|Status=Active
|Product=QR-Code-Generator.com, Bitly links
|ArticleType=Service
|Type=Terms of Service
|Description=Bitly has introduced "preview pages" for QR Codes and Bitly links, which may contain advertising, before directing users to the destination link.
}}
{{Ph-I-Int}}
==Background==
{{Ph-I-B}}

==[Incident]==
{{Ph-I-I}}

===[Company]'s response===
{{Ph-I-ComR}}

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

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

==References==
{{reflist}}

{{Ph-I-C}}

Bitly QRCodeGenerator.com QR code lockout

2025-08-15T07:07:10Z

Clippytron: Added a brief description and created more references.

{{Stub}}
{{IncidentCargo
|Company=Bitly
|StartDate=2025-07-30
|Status=Active
|ProductLine=qr-code-generator.com
|Product=qr-code-generator.com
|ArticleType=Product
|Type=Terms of Service
|Description=Bitly’s QR-Code-Generator.com markets “free” QR codes that later break unless users pay, causing losses for printed materials.}}
[[Bitly]] is a platform that manages links and shortens URLs. Users have complained that QR codes created with Bitly were unexpectedly deactivated once the user's free trial has expired, these codes can only be reactivated with a subscription to a paid plan.

==Background==
{{Ph-I-B}}
Bitly owns and operates [https://QR-Code-Generator.com QR-Code-Generator.com], a platform marketed as offering “free” QR code creation. Many users have reported that while the service initially generates functioning QR codes at no cost, those codes are later deactivated unless the user subscribes to a paid plan.<ref>{{Cite web |date=20 Jun 2024 |title=How can I reactivate my QR Codes? |url=https://support.qr-code-generator.com/hc/en-us/articles/7665090677005-How-can-I-reactivate-my-QR-Codes#:~:text=Your%20QR%20Codes%20may%20be,more%20of%20your%20QR%20Codes |access-date=15 Aug 2025 |website=QR Code Generator Support}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=11 Jun 2025 |title=I received a message saying that my QR Codes will be deactivated. What does that mean? |url=https://support.qr-code-generator.com/hc/en-us/articles/7665013224205-I-received-a-message-saying-that-my-QR-Codes-will-be-deactivated-What-does-that-mean#:~:text=Any%20Dynamic%20QR%20Codes%20you,QR%20codes%20or%20vice%20versa. |access-date=15 Aug 2025 |website=QR Code Generator Support}}</ref> This often results in substantial financial and reputational losses for individuals and businesses who have already printed the codes on packaging, signage, or promotional materials.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=u/Administrative_Bit10 |date=27 Jul 2023 |title=If ever need a QR code for your design, stay away from (qr-code-generator.com ) |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/graphic_design/comments/15asa5h/if_ever_need_a_qr_code_for_your_design_stay_away/ |access-date=15 Aug 2025 |website=Reddit}}</ref>

A widely discussed Reddit post from 2021 titled "Don't order a QR code from qrcodegenerator.com..." has over 230 comments detailing similar consumer complaints.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=u/whoisfryingbaloney |date=23 Aug 2021 |title=Don't order a QR Code from QR-code-generator.com. They say NOTHING about a paid monthly subscription of 15$/ mo when you sign up but wait 2 weeks after you've gotten your code (and had it printed on material) before they disable your QR code and try to make you pay once your backed into a corner. |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/assholedesign/comments/pa96df/dont_order_a_qr_code_from_qrcodegeneratorcom_they/ |url-status=live |access-date=15 Aug 2025 |website=Reddit}}</ref> Despite being over four years old, these reports mirror current user experiences, indicating the practice has persisted for years.

==Incident==
{{Ph-I-I}}
Multiple new user reports emerged describing the same pattern of QR codes becoming inactive after creation unless a subscription fee was paid. Many users claim they were unaware of any time limit or requirement for ongoing payment at the time of code creation. These codes, once printed and distributed, ceased to function—leading to wasted production costs and damaged customer trust.

==Bitly's response==
{{Ph-I-ComR}}
As of this writing, Bitly has not issued a public statement addressing the continued consumer concerns about QR code deactivation. The official Terms of Service mention subscription requirements, but users argue these conditions are not clearly disclosed during code creation, especially when marketed as “free.”

==Lawsuit==
{{Ph-I-L}}
No known lawsuits have been filed as of now. However, given the multi-year pattern of complaints, the issue may attract regulatory or class-action scrutiny if not addressed.

==Consumer response==
{{Ph-I-ConR}}
Users have expressed frustration across social media platforms, Reddit, and review sites, warning others about the practice.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" /> Some suggest that public posts on LinkedIn and other platforms tagging the company could pressure Bitly to change its approach. The consensus among dissatisfied customers is that the business model is deceptive and undermines trust, and that repairing such a damaged reputation is far more difficult than preserving it in the first place.

==References==
{{reflist}}

Bitly

2025-08-15T05:21:35Z

Clippytron: Added Legal Structure

{{CompanyCargo
|Industry=Software, Information Technology, Technology
|Logo=Bit.ly Logo.svg.png
|Description=Bitly is a private technology company offering link management and QR code services, including qr-code-generator.com.
|Website=https://bitly.com/|Founded=2008|ParentCompany=Spectrum Equity|Type=Private}}

Bitly is a private technology company offering link management and QR code services, including qr-code-generator.com.
==Consumer-impact summary==
Bitly has faced consumer backlash for practices on qr-code-generator.com, where QR codes marketed as "free" later stop working unless a subscription is purchased, resulting in wasted marketing materials and unexpected costs.

==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]].

===QR-Code-Generator.com “free” QR code lockout (2025-07-30)===
{{Main|QR-Code-Generator.com “free” QR code lockout}}
Bitly’s qr-code-generator.com advertises “free” QR codes but later disables them unless users pay, breaking printed materials and creating hidden costs for businesses.

==Products==
*Bitly Link Management Platform
*QR-Code-Generator.com

==See also==
*[https://www.qr-code-generator.com/ QR-Code-Generator.com official site]
*[https://bitly.com/ Bitly official site]

==References==
<references />

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]

YouTube age verification

2025-08-15T03:04:41Z

Clippytron: Converted some links to references.

{{IncidentCargo
|StartDate=2025-07-30
|Status=Active
|ProductLine=YouTube
|Product=Youtube
|ArticleType=Service
|Type=Digital restrictions
|Description=YouTube is requiring Users to give their government id to verify that they are adults, otherwise Users will be locked out of content.
}}Users' privacy is being violated by [https://gamerant.com/youtube-new-age-verification-feature-id-recognition YouTube's new policy.] The policy requires Users to provide a government issued ID in order to access content.

==Background==
[[YouTube]] is a social media site created on February 14th, 2005.<ref>{{Cite web |title=YouTube turns 20! The numbers behind the platform |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/ztq2g2p |url-status=live |access-date=14 Aug 2025 |website=BBC Bitesize}}</ref> It allows Users to both upload and view video form content from their electronic devices. Over time, certain individuals, known as content creators, began to make a living off this platform.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Molenaar |first=Koba |title=15 of the Most Popular Content Creators on YouTube to Check Out |url=https://influencermarketinghub.com/content-creators-youtube/ |url-status=live |access-date=14 Aug 2025 |website=Influencer Marketing Hub}}</ref> As the popularity of the platform grew, more requirements became necessary. However, more recently, YouTube has been using the requirements as a loophole to take more away from the User.

==YouTube's Government ID Requirement==
Recently, on July 30th, 2025, YouTube has announced that they will be testing a new feature on its platform which requires Users to provide a government issued ID to verify if they are 18.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ingram |first=Michael |date=30 Jul 2025 |title=YouTube is Rolling Out A New Controversial Feature |url=https://gamerant.com/youtube-new-age-verification-feature-id-recognition/ |url-status=live |access-date=14 Aug 2025 |website=GameRant}}</ref> If Users refuse, their account will be unable to access any content. This is in response to the UK's Online Safety Act.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Online Safety Act: explainer |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/online-safety-act-explainer/online-safety-act-explainer |url-status=live |access-date=14 Aug 2025 |website=GOV.UK}}</ref> This act requires companies to verify their Users' ages on their platform. This, however, violates America's first amendment right to the free speech of people and the press.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Constitution of the United States |url=https://constitution.congress.gov/constitution/amendment-1/ |url-status=live |access-date=14 Aug 2025 |website=Constitution Annotated}}</ref>

===YouTube's Response===
YouTube has [https://x.com/TeamYouTube/status/1950958354349633946 responded] stating that "This won’t be required for all users. We’ve always had the option for age verification via ID or credit card if someone is incorrectly estimated to be under 18." Although, they have not corrected previous errors with AI they had in the past.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Albright |first=Dann |date=22 Feb 2024 |title=YouTube Demonetization: What It Is, Why It Happens, and How to Avoid It |url=https://www.uscreen.tv/blog/how-to-survive-youtube-demonetization/#:~:text=YouTube%20demonetization%20happens%20when%20a,process%20is%20largely%20the%20same.) |url-status=live |access-date=14 Aug 2025 |website=Uscreen}}</ref>

==Consumer response==
Users are left frustrated by this requirement. As such, users have signed a [https://www.change.org/p/youtube-s-ai-tracks-everything-you-watch-stop-this-now petition] and have contacted YouTube to revoke this new requirement.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Belanger |first=Ashley |date=12 Aug 2025 |title=YouTube backlash begins: “Why is AI combing through every single video I watch?” |url=https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2025/08/50k-youtubers-rage-against-ai-spying-that-could-expose-identities/ |url-status=live |access-date=14 Aug 2025 |website=Ars Technica}}</ref> However, their concerns have been ignored by YouTube as they doubled down on keeping the requirement.

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

Bitly

2025-08-13T04:07:13Z

Clippytron: Added additional basic information, and copied the brief description onto the page.

{{CompanyCargo
|Industry=Software, Information Technology, Technology
|Logo=Bit.ly Logo.svg.png
|Description=Bitly is a private technology company offering link management and QR code services, including qr-code-generator.com.
|Website=https://bitly.com/|Founded=2008|ParentCompany=Spectrum Equity}}
Bitly is a private technology company offering link management and QR code services, including qr-code-generator.com.
==Consumer-impact summary==
Bitly has faced consumer backlash for practices on qr-code-generator.com, where QR codes marketed as "free" later stop working unless a subscription is purchased, resulting in wasted marketing materials and unexpected costs.

==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]].

===QR-Code-Generator.com “free” QR code lockout (2025-07-30)===
{{Main|QR-Code-Generator.com “free” QR code lockout}}
Bitly’s qr-code-generator.com advertises “free” QR codes but later disables them unless users pay, breaking printed materials and creating hidden costs for businesses.

==Products==
*Bitly Link Management Platform
*QR-Code-Generator.com

==See also==
*[https://www.qr-code-generator.com/ QR-Code-Generator.com official site]
*[https://bitly.com/ Bitly official site]

==References==
<references />

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]

YouTube age verification

2025-08-13T03:42:29Z

Clippytron: Linked directly to Team YouTube's Twitter response instead of Deep Humor's video covering it.

{{IncidentCargo
|StartDate=2025-07-30
|Status=Active
|ProductLine=YouTube
|Product=Youtube
|ArticleType=Service
|Type=Digital restrictions
|Description=YouTube is requiring Users to give their government id to verify that they are adults, otherwise Users will be locked out of content.
}}Users privacy is being violated by [https://gamerant.com/youtube-new-age-verification-feature-id-recognition YouTube's new policy]. The policy requires Users to provide government issued id in order to access content.

==Background==
YouTube is a social media site created on [https://www.studiobinder.com/blog/when-was-youtube-created February 14th, of 2005.] It allows Users to both upload and view video form content from their electronic devices. Over time, certain individuals, known as [https://influencermarketinghub.com/content-creators-youtube content creators,] began to make a living off this platform. As popularity of the platform grew, more requirements became necessary. However, more recently, YouTube has been using the requirements as a loophole to take more away from the User.

==YouTube's Government ID Requirement==
Recently, on [https://gamerant.com/youtube-new-age-verification-feature-id-recognition July 30th, 2025,] YouTube has announced that they will be testing a new feature on its platform which requires Users to provide government issued id to verify if they are 18. If Users refuse, their account will be unable to access any content. This is in response to the UK's [https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/online-safety-act-explainer/online-safety-act-explainer Online Safety Act.] This act requires companies to verify their User's ages on their platform. This however, violates America's [https://constitution.congress.gov/constitution/amendment-1 first amendment right] to prohibit the free speech of people and/or the press.

===YouTube's Response===
YouTube has [https://x.com/TeamYouTube/status/1950958354349633946 responded] stating that "This will not be required for all Users," and, "We have always had the option for age verification via id or credit card if the user is incorrectly estimated to be under 18." Although, they have not corrected [https://www.uscreen.tv/blog/how-to-survive-youtube-demonetization/#:~:text=YouTube%20demonetization%20happens%20when%20a,process%20is%20largely%20the%20same.) previous errors with AI] they had in the past.

==Consumer response==
Users are left frustrated by this requirement. As such, users have signed a [https://www.change.org/p/youtube-s-ai-tracks-everything-you-watch-stop-this-now petition] and have [https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2025/08/50k-youtubers-rage-against-ai-spying-that-could-expose-identities contacted YouTube] to revoke this new requirement. However, their concerns have been ignored by YouTube as they doubled down on keeping the requirement.

==References==
{{reflist}}

{{Ph-I-C}}

YouTube age verification

2025-08-13T03:03:27Z

Clippytron: He just wanted to help - Fixed spacing and removed unused section.

{{IncidentCargo
|StartDate=2025-07-30
|Status=Active
|ProductLine=YouTube
|Product=Youtube
|ArticleType=Service
|Type=Digital restrictions
|Description=YouTube is requiring Users to give their government id to verify that they are adults, otherwise Users will be locked out of content.
}}Users privacy is being violated by [https://gamerant.com/youtube-new-age-verification-feature-id-recognition YouTube's new policy]. The policy requires Users to provide government issued id in order to access content.

==Background==
YouTube is a social media site created on [https://www.studiobinder.com/blog/when-was-youtube-created February 14th, of 2005.] It allows Users to both upload and view video form content from their electronic devices. Over time, certain individuals, known as [https://influencermarketinghub.com/content-creators-youtube content creators,] began to make a living off this platform. As popularity of the platform grew, more requirements became necessary. However, more recently, YouTube has been using the requirements as a loophole to take more away from the User.

==YouTube's Government ID Requirement==
Recently, on [https://gamerant.com/youtube-new-age-verification-feature-id-recognition July 30th, 2025,] YouTube has announced that they will be testing a new feature on its platform which requires Users to provide government issued id to verify if they are 18. If Users refuse, their account will be unable to access any content. This is in response to the UK's [https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/online-safety-act-explainer/online-safety-act-explainer Online Safety Act.] This act requires companies to verify their User's ages on their platform. This however, violates America's [https://constitution.congress.gov/constitution/amendment-1 first amendment right] to prohibit the free speech of people and/or the press.

===YouTube's Response===
YouTube has [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9L9Bzu9aca8&t=116s responded] stating that "This will not be required for all Users," and, "We have always had the option for age verification via id or credit card if the user is incorrectly estimated to be under 18." Although, they have not corrected [https://www.uscreen.tv/blog/how-to-survive-youtube-demonetization/#:~:text=YouTube%20demonetization%20happens%20when%20a,process%20is%20largely%20the%20same.) previous errors with AI] they had in the past.

==Consumer response==
Users are left frustrated by this requirement. As such, users have signed a [https://www.change.org/p/youtube-s-ai-tracks-everything-you-watch-stop-this-now petition] and have [https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2025/08/50k-youtubers-rage-against-ai-spying-that-could-expose-identities contacted YouTube] to revoke this new requirement. However, their concerns have been ignored by YouTube as they doubled down on keeping the requirement.

==References==
{{reflist}}

{{Ph-I-C}}