A jury will look at whether Amazon tricked customers into joining Prime — and made it hard to leave
Summary
A federal trial in Seattle is looking into claims that Amazon misled customers into joining its Prime service and made it hard to cancel. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) brought the case against Amazon, alleging it violated a law that ensures online shopper transparency. The trial will determine if Amazon's practices related to Prime membership are lawful.Key Facts
- The trial is held in Seattle, focusing on Amazon's Prime service practices.
- The FTC sued Amazon two years ago, claiming violations of a 2010 law meant to protect online shoppers.
- Amazon's Prime service offers perks like faster shipping and discounts for $139 annually or $14.99 monthly.
- Over 200 million people are members of Amazon Prime.
- Amazon disputed the claims, saying it provides clear terms and easy ways to cancel Prime.
- The FTC claimed Amazon made it hard for customers to opt-out of Prime and enrollments happened without clear consent.
- The "Illiad" process for canceling Prime required multiple steps, which Amazon's internal sources described as problematic.
- A U.S. judge confirmed that certain laws apply to Prime and limited some defenses Amazon could use in the trial.
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