This is what happens when you make canceling a software subscription really, really difficult.
Software maker Adobe has agreed to a settlement with the US Department of Justice worth $150 million, including a $75 million fee paid to the DOJ and another $75 million in free services for users.
The agreement allows Adobe to deny any wrongdoing, and the company released the following statement:
“We have now finalized a settlement agreement with the Department of Justice that will bring to an end the litigation filed in June 2024 related to our disclosure and subscription cancellation practices. While we disagree with the government’s claims and deny any wrongdoing, we are pleased to resolve this matter. We have agreed to provide $75 million worth of free services to customers that qualify. We will proactively reach out to the affected customers once the appropriate filings with the Court are made and accepted. Additionally, we have agreed to a $75 million payment to the Department of Justice.”
With any luck, Adobe will hopefully make it considerably easier to cancel a subscription.
Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.