Consumer Rights Wiki - User contributions [en]

Toyota

2026-05-09T12:16:08Z

ClippyFellow47: Grammar edits to improve tone.

{{StubNotice}}
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{{CompanyCargo
| Founded = 1937
| Industry = Automotive
| Logo = Toyota.png
| ParentCompany =
| Type = Public
| Website = https://toyota.com/
| Description = Toyota Motor Corporation, commonly known simply as Toyota, is a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer. This page contains topics related to business practices as well as products and/or services provided by the Toyota Motor Corporation and its subsidiary Lexus.
}}
'''[[Wikipedia:Toyota|Toyota Motor Corporation]]''', commonly known as '''Toyota''', is a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer. This page contains topics related to business practices as well as products and/or services provided by the Toyota Motor Corporation and its subsidiary [[wikipedia:Lexus|Lexus]].
==Incidents==
===GR Corolla engine fire denied warranty claims===
[[File:Toyota GR Corolla engine fire.jpg|thumb|409x409px|Image of the first burned Toyota GR Corolla ]]
[[File:Toyota GR Corolla fire.webp|thumb|410x410px|Image of the second burned Toyota GR Corolla]]

The Toyota GR Corolla is a high-performance hatchback released in 2022 and still for sale in the United States and other countries as of the time of writing. At least 2 owners have had their warranty claims denied by Toyota under suspicious circumstances.

The first owner suffered an engine fire, which resulted in the vehicle being totaled. Toyota denied the claim, asserting that the tires were the cause of the accident. The reply from Toyota's Engagement Center was: <blockquote>The owner's manual warns not to drive [sic] in excess of the speed limit. Even if the legal speed limit permits it, do not drive over 85 mph unless your vehicle has high-speed capability tires. Driving over 85 mph may result in tire failure, loss of control, and possible injury. Be sure to consult a tire dealer to determine whether the tires on your vehicle are high-speed-capability tires before driving at such speeds. Based on our inspection findings and the facts relating to this incident, we cannot provide any assistance in this matter.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Christopher |date=7 Aug 2024 |title=Two GR Corollas Burned Down. Toyota Won’t Honor the Warranties |url=https://www.motor1.com/news/729265/toyota-gr-corolla-warranty-claims-weird-reasons/ |url-status=live |access-date=15 Mar 2025 |website=Motor1 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250813233052/https://www.motor1.com/news/729265/toyota-gr-corolla-warranty-claims-weird-reasons/ |archive-date=13 Aug 2025}}</ref></blockquote>The Tires Fitted on the GR Corolla from the factory are Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires that have a speed rating of 186mph.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 Tire |url=https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/tires/michelin-pilot-sport-all-season-4/m405250/#section:specs |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250708192213/https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/tires/michelin-pilot-sport-all-season-4/m405250/ |archive-date=8 Jul 2025|access-date=15 May 2025 |website=Consumer Reports}}</ref>

The second owner suffered a more severe fire that destroyed the vehicle. Toyota denied his warranty claim, saying, "''In response to your concerns, a vehicle inspection was conducted on June 6, 2024....The odometer reading at the last service visit was 8,146 miles. The vehicle was severely burned. A possible hole in the engine block was observed on the front side, near the rear of the engine. No data could be recovered from the vehicle due to extensive burn damage. Based on the inspection findings, the cause of the fire could not be determined. Therefore, we are unable to offer any assistance.”<ref name=":0" />''

Toyota's evidence has yet to support either of these denials of warranty coverage.

====Causes====
[[File:Toyota GR Corolla marketing material.png|thumb|GR Corolla tire specifications from Toyota's website]]
Owners and Mechanics have speculated on the cause of these engine failures. A video from PIRAS Motorsport disassembles the G16E GTS Engine found in the GR Corolla and proposes engine failure results from excessive engine tolerances.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Piras Motorsport |date=29 Sep 2024 |title=What's Killing Your Toyota G16E GTS Engine? GR Yaris & GR Corolla |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h1TONzhOxvs |url-status=live |access-date=15 Mar 2025 |website=[[YouTube]] |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=h1TONzhOxvs |archive-date=23 Feb 2026}}</ref> Prevention measures recommended include disassembling the engine and replacing the connecting rods, pistons, and piston rings.

===Start the vehicle using my Toyota key fob===
Remote starting Toyotas with a key fob is now behind a paywall.<ref>{{Cite web |title=How do I start the vehicle using my Toyota key fob? |url=https://support.toyota.com/s/article/How-do-I-start-the-ve-7424?language=en_US |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260222231520/https://support.toyota.com/s/article/How-do-I-start-the-ve-7424?language=en_US |archive-date=22 Feb 2026}}</ref> A Remote Connect subscription is required for some vehicles to process the remote start radio signal sequence from the key fob.

===Crash protection is offered only on the driver's side===
Toyota has intentionally left out all the structural metal that can protect passengers in a small-overlap crash, and has only added it on the driver's side <ref>{{Cite web |title=Passenger side protection lacking in smaller crashes |url=https://youtube.com/watch?v=72caLypmKCA |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200330162152/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=72caLypmKCA |archive-date=30 Mar 2020}}</ref>

===Ending support of app suite ''(2023)''===
In 2023, [[Toyota]] decided to stop supporting the Toyota app suite, which included models as late as 2024, such as the 4Runner. Depending on the vehicle, Alexa, NPR One, iHeartRadio, LiveXLive, Scout GPS Link, Destination Search, Saved Destinations, H2 Station Finder (where applicable), Fuel, Sports, Stocks, Traffic, Weather. If your vehicle didn't have Android Auto, you were out of luck for GPS and other apps.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Toyota App Suite Sunset |url=https://support.toyota.com/s/article/Toyota-App-Suite-Retirement?language=en_US |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251011004024/https://support.toyota.com/s/article/Toyota-App-Suite-Retirement?language=en_US |archive-date=11 Oct 2025|website=Toyota Support}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Toyota App Suite being discontinued |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/Toyota/comments/172subi/toyota_app_suite_being_discontinued/ |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20231008115839/https://old.reddit.com/r/Toyota/comments/172subi/toyota_app_suite_being_discontinued/ |archive-date=8 Oct 2023|website=Reddit}}</ref>

MyToyota app, which replaced the Toyota Suite, has built-in paywall features, such as scheduled pre-heating for your car. This affects all Toyota models. They offer the service for free for 3 years after purchase, but then disable it, forcing owners to either give up that feature or switch to a subscription model.

===Obfuscation of Maintenance Alerts ''(2016)''===
[[File:Prius Prime dashboard alert oil change.jpg|thumb|alt=Dashboard with screen showing "Maintenance Required Visit Your Dealer"|Prius Prime dashboard alert for an oil change]]
Starting with the 2016 Prius, oil change alerts changed with a new generation of vehicles. Many static indicator lights were replaced with a simple screen message<ref>{{Cite web |title=2016 Prius Owner's Manual page 671 |url=https://assets.sia.toyota.com/publications/en/om-s/OM47A29U/pdf/OM47A29U.pdf#page=671}}</ref>. The oil change light, in particular, was replaced with the message "Maintenance Required Visit Your Dealer". This change obscured a regularly scheduled maintenance task, likely steering customers toward corporate dealerships rather than allowing them to make a decision based on the actual cause. In the owner's manual, it's noted that the original oil change light remains for Canada only<ref>{{Cite web |title=2016 Prius Owner's Manual page 105 |url=https://assets.sia.toyota.com/publications/en/om-s/OM47A29U/pdf/OM47A29U.pdf#page=105}}</ref>.

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:Toyota]]

Monetization overload

2026-05-09T12:12:35Z

ClippyFellow47: Grammar edits to improve tone.

{{Incomplete}}{{ToneWarning}}

'''Monetization overload''', or '''over-monetization''', occurs when a company prioritizes heavy monetization of a product or service, often at the expense of consumer engagement or even the product's functionality. Over-monetization may manifest in various forms, including [[advertising overload]], [[Predatory microtransactions|microtransactions]], unjustified [[Subscription service|subscriptions]], and locking core features behind a [[Pay-walling|paywall]], among others. While it's understood that products and services require compensation in some form, even when they're "free", the degradation of quality, limits of functionality, and loss of consumer engagement are often symptoms of excessive monetization of the product or service.

==Why is it a problem?==

===Genericide===
When a product, more specifically a [[Games as a service|live service game]], focuses excessively on monetization, it dulls the experience, even devaluing the product itself. This can especially undermine the product's core purpose, since an event unrelated to it could effectively block consumers from accessing the full functionality of their product.

Often, when a game faces genericization through monetization, publishers prioritize monetization over core features and even bug fixes, instead opting to implement more generic or unrelated products to sell on the in-game storefront. For example, the Call of Duty Squid Game promotion overshadowed the spotlight on the game's development,<ref>{{Cite news |last=Armughanuddin |first=Md |date=2025-01-03 |title=Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 Confirms Bad News About Squid Game Crossover Event |url=https://gamerant.com/call-of-duty-black-ops-6-squid-game-crossover-premium-battle-pass/ |access-date=3 Apr 2025 |work=GameRant |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251023082807/https://gamerant.com/call-of-duty-black-ops-6-squid-game-crossover-premium-battle-pass/ |archive-date=23 Oct 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Kain |first=Erik |date=6 Jan 2025 |title=‘Warzone’ Is Completely Broken After ‘Squid Game’ Update |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/erikkain/2025/01/06/warzone-is-completely-broken-after-squid-game-update/ |access-date=3 Apr 2025 |work=Forbes |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251018140206/https://www.forbes.com/sites/erikkain/2025/01/06/warzone-is-completely-broken-after-squid-game-update/ |archive-date=18 Oct 2025}}</ref> rather than on its anti-cheat development, despite promises from [[Activision]].<ref>{{Cite news |last=Zhou |first=Andrew |date=Jan 3, 2025 |title=Fans Are Not Thrilled About The New Black Ops 6 Squid Game Event Due To The Premium Reward Track Price Tag |url=https://screenrant.com/black-ops-6-squid-game-price-premium/ |access-date=Apr 3, 2025 |work=ScreenRant |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251021170256/https://screenrant.com/black-ops-6-squid-game-price-premium/ |archive-date=21 Oct 2025}}</ref>

===Monetization Bias===
Often, when a product is over-monetized, its development tends to be biased towards features that increase consumer transactions or advertising promotions from other companies. This kind of bias also does not favor developing features or fixes that do not directly generate revenue for the publisher, including, but not limited to, patching bugs, tweaking balance, repairing product defects, and moderating communities.

===Monetizing mundane features===
Some product features that were once standard and free for consumers could also be monetized in absurd ways. Free-to-play (F2P) titles could see experience progression slowed down to encourage purchasing "experience boosts".

This can also be applied to mundane monetization, where products may have only slightly different variants sold simultaneously. This is especially evident in cosmetic items for games, where even a simple reskin or shader could be sold.

===Advertising Overload===
{{Main|Advertising overload}}
To generate revenue from consumers, companies may integrate advertisements into their products. This can be detrimental if the company is hasty in incorporating advertisements.

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Common terms]]

Meta Portal

2026-05-09T12:09:38Z

ClippyFellow47: Grammar edits to improve tone.

{{Stub}}
{{Incomplete|Issue 1=needs references with [[Template:Cite web]]}}
{{ToneWarning}}
{{ProductLineCargo
|Company=Meta
|ReleaseYear=2018
|InProduction=No
|ArticleType=Product
|Category=Smart Display, Video Calling Device
|Logo=Meta logo.svg
|Website=https://portal.facebook.com/
|Description=Discontinued smart video calling displays requiring mandatory Facebook/Meta account. Features progressively removed 2023-2025 despite 2032 support pro
}}
==Consumer-impact summary==
Meta Portal is a discontinued line of smart video-calling displays introduced in 2018, consisting of multiple models, including Portal, Portal+, Portal Mini, Portal TV, and Portal Go. The devices require users to authenticate with a mandatory Facebook or Meta account to access core functionality, creating vendor lock-in that prevents true ownership. Meta discontinued the product line in June 2022, with final sales ending December 31, 2022, yet promised device support until February 2032. However, Meta began systematically removing key advertised features years before this support deadline, including third-party video calling apps like Zoom and Microsoft Teams, Alexa voice assistant integration, and the "Hey Portal" voice command system, which were shut down on January 31, 2025. This progressive feature degradation has left owners with devices that possess significantly diminished functionality compared to what was advertised at purchase, demonstrating clear anti-ownership practices through planned obsolescence and bait-and-switch tactics.

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

===Mandatory account requirement for device operation (2018–present)===
All Meta Portal devices [[Forced account|require users to sign in]] with a Facebook or Meta account to access basic video calling functionality. This creates a dependency where consumers cannot fully use the hardware they purchased without maintaining an active relationship with Meta's services. Users who lose access to their accounts, have their accounts suspended, or wish to leave Meta's platforms for privacy reasons find that their Portal devices become unusable, even though they own the physical hardware. This represents a fundamental violation of traditional ownership rights, where purchased products should function independently of the manufacturer's ongoing services.

===Progressive feature removal during "support" period (2023–2025)===
Despite Meta's promise to support Portal devices until February 2032, the company began systematically removing core features starting in 2023. Throughout 2023 and 2024, Meta removed third-party video-calling applications, including Zoom and Microsoft Teams, that had originally been advertised as key features. On January 31, 2025, Meta shut down the Alexa voice assistant integration and the "Hey Portal" wake word feature, removing all voice control capabilities from the devices. Users who contacted Meta support about these removals were told that because Portal devices are no longer manufactured, the company is "not supporting" advertised features, effectively telling customers they are "shit out of luck" despite devices still being within the promised support window. This progressive degradation has reduced Portal devices from multifunctional smart displays to basic Messenger and WhatsApp calling screens, stripping away most of the functionality that justified their original purchase price.

===Product discontinuation and enterprise pivot (June 2022)===
In June 2022, Meta announced it would discontinue its consumer Portal product line and attempt to pivot to enterprise markets. Final consumer sales ended on December 31, 2022. This abrupt discontinuation came just months after Meta released new models (Portal Go and the updated Portal+) in September 2021, leaving customers who purchased these "latest generation" devices with products that would receive minimal support despite being nearly brand-new. The timing suggests Meta was still actively marketing and selling Portal devices while internally planning to abandon the consumer product line, raising questions about whether the company misled customers about the longevity and support they could expect.

==Products==

*The Meta Portal product line included the following models:
*Portal (1st generation, 2018): 10-inch smart display with HD screen, portrait or landscape orientation
*Portal+ (1st generation, 2018): Larger premium model with rotating display
*Portal Mini (2019): 8-inch HD display in a compact form factor, discontinued after 2019
*Portal (2nd generation, 2019): Redesigned 10-inch model with picture frame design
*Portal TV (2019): Camera and microphone bar connecting to televisions via HDMI, no built-in display
*Portal Go (2021): First battery-powered portable 10.1-inch model, priced at $199
*Portal+ (2nd generation, 2021): Updated 14-inch premium model

==See also==

*[[Nixplay]]

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]

Sony Playstation hardware bans from online services

2026-05-07T13:31:36Z

ClippyFellow47: Minor grammar edits to improve tone.

{{Incomplete}}
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{{IncidentCargo
|Company=Sony, PlayStation
|StartDate=2011
|EndDate=2025
|Status=Active
|ProductLine=Gaming consoles
|Product=Playstation, Playstation 4, Plastation 5, PS Vita
|ArticleType=Service
|Type=Service Termination, Digital restrictions
|Description=Sony is permanently banning consoles from accessing online services permanently. This practice is in place since launch of PS Vita for sure.
}}[[Sony]] is permanently banning [[PlayStation]] consoles from accessing online services at the hardware level for "violation of terms of service." This results in console hardware being unable to access software digitally purchased by customers. This also creates the risk that someone will buy a used console that is permanently banned from accessing online services.

==Background==
Sony has a long history of banning gaming console hardware from accessing PlayStation Network online services for "violation of terms of service".<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=2021 |title=Sony suffers new defeat in the Court of SP after banning PS5 permanently (Portuguese) |url=https://tecnoblog.net/noticias/sony-sofre-derrota-na-justica-de-sp-apos-banir-ps5-de-forma-permanente/ |website=tecnoblog.net |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251004103415/https://tecnoblog.net/noticias/sony-sofre-derrota-na-justica-de-sp-apos-banir-ps5-de-forma-permanente/ |archive-date=4 Oct 2025}}</ref><ref name=":1">{{Cite web |date=2025-09-03 |title=Suspensions on PlayStation |url=https://www.playstation.com/en-us/support/account/suspensions-psn/ |website=Sony playstation official site |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260108195144/https://www.playstation.com/en-us/support/account/suspensions-psn/ |archive-date=8 Jan 2026}}</ref> This practice has been in place since PS Vita<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |date=2020 |title=Need Advice About A Banned Vita |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/vita/comments/hiu3ak/need_advice_about_a_banned_vita_not_your_typical/ |website=Reddit |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20230609174656/https://old.reddit.com/r/vita/comments/hiu3ak/need_advice_about_a_banned_vita_not_your_typical/ |archive-date=9 Jun 2023}}</ref>. (Might be in place since PS3, but this is unconfirmed - also in these days, digital purchases were not a big deal)

This type of ban is permanent, and Sony does not allow it to be lifted<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024 |title=Can You Fix a PS5 Console Ban? |url=https://expertbeacon.com/can-you-fix-a-ps5-console-ban/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/OXjOP |archive-date=7 Apr 2026 |website=expertbeacon.com}}</ref><ref name=":3">{{Cite web |date=2020 |title=Ps4 has been permanently banned by Sony. Previous owner had unpaid bills. |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/techsupport/comments/ewpd6p/ps4_has_been_permanently_banned_by_sony_previous/ |website=Reddit |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20230609024059/https://old.reddit.com/r/techsupport/comments/ewpd6p/ps4_has_been_permanently_banned_by_sony_previous/ |archive-date=9 Jun 2023}}</ref> - as Sony states on their official site<ref name=":1" />.

If it happens, users have a banned console (which can be bought as second-hand <ref name=":2" /><ref>{{Cite web |date=Jul 18, 2016 |title=Sony Permanently Banning PS4 Console |url=https://www.neogaf.com/threads/sony-permanently-banning-ps4-console.1248162/ |website=neogaf.com forum |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251004103414/https://www.neogaf.com/threads/sony-permanently-banning-ps4-console.1248162/ |archive-date=4 Oct 2025}}</ref><ref name=":3" />) that cannot access digitally purchased content. Which is confirmed on Sony's official site:<blockquote>With this suspension, you will be unable to use your console to access any account, play games or game modes requiring online access, or access content purchased from the PlayStation Store. <ref name=":1" /></blockquote>

==Hardware-level Network Bans==
Sony issues three different types of bans for PlayStation Network users. These types are:<blockquote>'''<big>Account Suspension:</big>'''

With this suspension, you won't be able to sign into your account and access any PlayStation features, including online multiplayer, PlayStation Store, and other features. That means you will not be able to use some products and services, even ones you paid for.

An account suspension can be either temporary or permanent.

'''<big>Communication Suspension:</big>'''

With this suspension, you won't be able to access “social” features, such as interacting with other players and playing online. Communication suspensions will act as account suspensions when attempting to play on a PS4 console.

'''<big>Console Suspension:</big>'''

With this suspension, you will be unable to use your console to access any account, play games or game modes requiring online access, or access content purchased from the PlayStation Store.

The suspension type and length are determined based on the severity of the violation and the player's offense history.<ref name=":1" /></blockquote>

Sony "usually" emails users to explain why they have been suspended and how long the suspension will last, and allows users to view their account status by visiting [https://www.playstation.com/safety/status/?smcid=pdc:en-us:pdc-support-account-suspensions-psn:my-support My Support]. <ref name=":1" />

Console-level bans render Digital Edition PlayStation 5s effectively unusable, since PlayStation Network access is required to download and install games on these consoles. PlayStation 5s with disk drives can still read games from a disk when banned at the console level, but upgrading eligible PlayStation 4 games to PlayStation 5 digital versions requires PlayStation Network access.<ref>{{Cite web |title=How to upgrade an eligible PS4 game to the digital PS5 version |url=https://www.playstation.com/en-us/support/games/upgrade-ps4-game-to-ps5-version/ |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260211031057/https://www.playstation.com/en-us/support/games/upgrade-ps4-game-to-ps5-version/ |archive-date=11 Feb 2026}}</ref>

Additionally, Sony offers no recourse to users who buy a suspended used console:<blockquote>
===Can a second-hand PlayStation console suspension be lifted?===
No. If you have purchased a suspended PlayStation console, please contact the seller for help.<ref name=":1" /></blockquote>

Since someone selling a suspended PlayStation console can simply choose not to disclose the suspension, this can blindside secondhand buyers. Buyers might have trouble contacting the seller about the console ban, and if the PlayStation was suspended before the seller even obtained it, then tracing the user who caused the suspension could be nearly impossible.

Sony's refusal to support users who buy a suspended used console disincentivizes purchasing used consoles out of concern that the buyer may end up with an unusable console. Thus, users are more likely to buy new ones, which benefits Sony, and the banned used consoles are likely to become e-waste.

==Lawsuit==
In some states, Sony has already lost court cases and was forced to unban some consoles.<ref name=":0" /><ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-05-05 |title=Sony Suffers Defeat in Brazilian Court Over Banned PS5 Consoles |url=https://www.playstationlifestyle.net/2021/05/05/ps5-ban-brazil-ruling/ |website=playstationlifestyle.net |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251004103414/https://www.playstationlifestyle.net/2021/05/05/ps5-ban-brazil-ruling/ |archive-date=4 Oct 2025}}</ref>

Despite these lost cases, Sony still uses this practice.

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

==Related articles==
Incidents:

*[[Nintendo Switch bans]]

Game companies:

*[[Sony]]
*[[Nintendo]]
*[[Microsoft]]
**[[Xbox]]

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

PETKIT Pura Max 2 — Region-Lock

2026-05-07T13:25:49Z

ClippyFellow47: Grammar edits to improve tone.

{{StubNotice}}
{{ToneWarning}}
{{Cleanup|reason=Needs updating to follow incident page formatting. See [[Template:IncidentPreload]].}}
{{IncidentCargo
|Company=Petkit
|StartDate=2025-09-01
|EndDate=2025-10-24
|Status=Active
|ProductLine=Petkit
|Product=Pura Max 2
|ArticleType=Product
|Type=Product Termination
|Description=PETKIT Pura Max 2 – beware of regional lock scam
}}

'''PETKIT Pura Max 2''' is an automatic litter box manufactured in China that connects to Wi-Fi. Users report that, upon leaving China, the company locks the device once it is connected to the internet.

==What Happened==
When users leave the country, the PETKIT app displays an error after attempting to connect to Wi-Fi:<blockquote>“Region restriction — this device cannot be used outside mainland China.”</blockquote>The device stopped functioning entirely, even for basic cleaning cycles.

All control depends on the PETKIT app, which refuses to connect.

This creates another loss: users who purchase the device and intend to leave the country have lost up to a few hundred dollars in baggage fees for a device that was unknowingly bricked the moment they left.

==Company response==
One user reported contacting a rep, who replied that they cannot unblock the device because “the system automatically enforces regional restrictions.” They admitted it’s a server-level lock and that support has “no tools to override or remove it.”

The user asked for escalation to engineering — they refused, saying the block is “permanent and automatic.”

===PETKIT’s Official Reply===
<blockquote>“The system is designed to automatically enforce regional restrictions for compliance and technical reasons. Once the system detects the device is operating outside its designated region, the blocking is triggered automatically… we do not have access or tools to override it.”</blockquote>

===Why This Is a Consumer Rights Issue===
*PETKIT never disclosed any '''regional restriction''' before purchase.
*Customers are not warned that the product will stop functioning abroad.
*PETKIT refuses to offer migration, unbinding, or any technical solution.
*The device remains perfectly functional but '''software-blocked by region'''.

This practice is misleading and anti-consumer — it violates transparency and reasonable use principles. I bought this product in good faith, expecting it to work like any other smart appliance.

==Evidence==

*Photos of the device, serial number, and box https://consumerrights.wiki/images/c/ce/Photo_2025-10-06_22-11-03_%283%29.jpg ([https://web.archive.org/web/20260217180938/https://consumerrights.wiki/images/c/ce/Photo_2025-10-06_22-11-03_(3).jpg Archived]) https://consumerrights.wiki/images/5/59/IMG_2972.JPG ([https://web.archive.org/web/20260217180938/https://consumerrights.wiki/images/5/59/IMG_2972.JPG Archived])
*Email correspondence with PETKIT support (Ticket: ud:00cd22c0) [[:File:PETKIT Gmail correspondence region-lock support.pdf]] ([https://web.archive.org/web/20260407172347if_/https://consumerrights.wiki/images/e/e0/PETKIT_Gmail_correspondence_region-lock_support.pdf Archived])

Microsoft Office 365

2026-05-04T14:17:29Z

ClippyFellow47: Grammar edits to improve tone.

{{Incomplete|Issue 1= Lack of citations and references| Issue 2=Bottom section needs to be reworked to fit within wiki standards }}
{{ToneWarning}}
{{ProductLineCargo
|ArticleType=Service
|Category=Software
|Company=Microsoft
|InProduction=Yes
|Logo=Microsoft 365 logo (2022).png
|ReleaseYear=2010
|Website=https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365
|Description=Productivity software-as-a-service suite introduced by Microsoft in 2010
}}

'''{{Wplink|Microsoft 365}}''' (sold as '''Office 365''' from 2010 to 2020) is a suite of productivity software applications that includes Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft PowerPoint. The addition of "365" to the product's name was introduced in 2010 to distinguish the company's new subscription-based [[software as a service]] offering (and other related hosted services such as Office on the Web) that was promoted to customers as the replacement for the stand-alone, perpetually-licensed products of the flagship Microsoft Office suite it had sold since 1990.

In March 2020, a rebranding effort that began in 2017, seeking to unify Microsoft's personal and small-to-medium business product lines with its enterprise offerings, was completed, and it was announced that all existing Office 365 products and subscriptions would be renamed Microsoft 365.<ref name="ms-rebrand">{{Cite web |author= |title=Microsoft Office 365 is a part of Microsoft 365 |url=https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/office-365 |website=[[Microsoft]] |date= |access-date=10 Apr 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201022030805if_/https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/office-365 |archive-date=22 Oct 2020}}</ref>

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

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

===General===
====Forced telemetry (diagnostic data) transmission====
The only editions of the Microsoft 365 desktop apps that expose controls over the amount of telemetry data they regularly transmit back to Microsoft are the highly-priced "E" (Enterprise) or the Microsoft 365 for Education plans that require a minimum purchase of 300 or more individual user licenses; users of all other tiers are not furnished with an opt-out control, as was possible in previous years. Even for those volume-licensed editions with the controls, no option is provided to fully deactivate the sharing of telemetry data; moreover, the controls they have access to are configured at the lowest user privacy level by default.

The Office transmits data on an estimated 23,000–25,000 types of events (other reports related to the German BSI audit identified over 30,000 types of events) to Microsoft.<ref name="nas">{{Cite web |last=Nas |first=Sjoera |title=Impact assessment shows privacy risks Microsoft Office ProPlus Enterprise |url=https://www.privacycompany.eu/blog/impact-assessment-shows-privacy-risks-microsoft-office-proplus-enterprise |website=Privacy Company |date=13 Nov 2018 |access-date=10 Apr 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20240414110632if_/https://www.privacycompany.eu/blog/impact-assessment-shows-privacy-risks-microsoft-office-proplus-enterprise |archive-date=14 Apr 2024}}</ref> Microsoft can adjust the level of detail transmitted remotely, even to the point of recording every single keystroke and mouse event as a log to be uploaded to Microsoft servers in the background, with no notice to the user.

Experts in computing security now generally advise all users that it cannot reasonably be assumed that any data entered into or any interaction with a Microsoft 365 application will remain private unless the system is "air gapped," or completely disconnected from the internet. This has led to loud concerns about evolving norms regarding user consent, especially given that even highly trusted institutions, such as hospitals, in countries outside the industrialized First World frequently opt to run consumer versions of Microsoft software as a cost-saving measure.{{Citation needed}}

===Copilot===
====Microsoft Copilot is on by default====
After a round of opt-in pre-release testing, Microsoft's new AI agent — named [[Microsoft Copilot|Copilot]] — was announced as an "opt-out" (on by default) feature enhancement for Microsoft 365 subscribers on 22 January 2025.<ref name="hoffman">{{Cite web |last=Hoffman |first=Chris |title=Copilot AI comes to Microsoft 365 plans: Everything you need to know |url=https://www.computerworld.com/article/3806855/copilot-ai-microsoft-365.html |website=ComputerWorld |date=22 Jan 2025 |access-date=10 Apr 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250210012231if_/https://www.computerworld.com/article/3806855/copilot-ai-microsoft-365.html |archive-date=10 Feb 2025}}</ref>

===Copilot upsell (''2024—'')===
[[File:MS365Scam.png|thumb|400px|alt=Microsoft's e-mail informing customers their Microsoft 365 plan was increasing in price and getting AI "features".|Microsoft's email informing customers that their Microsoft 365 plan was increasing in price and getting AI "features".]]
Microsoft has been accused of misleading customers since around October 2024 by suggesting they had to move to higher-priced Microsoft 365 personal and family plans that included Copilot.<ref name="kumar">{{Cite web |last=Kumar |first=Sneha |title=Australia sues Microsoft over AI-linked subscription price hikes |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/australia-takes-microsoft-court-says-it-misled-27-million-customers-2025-10-26/ |website=Reuters |date=27 Oct 2025 |access-date=10 Apr 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/xlhzD
|archive-date=6 Mar 2026}}</ref><ref name="video-explanation">{{Cite web |author=Atomic Shrimp |title=Microsoft’s Sneaky Forced-Upsell to 365 Users; If You Don’t Need/Want Copilot, Don’t Pay for It |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eYVPThx7yss |website=[[YouTube]] |date=25 Jan 2025 |access-date=6 Mar 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=eYVPThx7yss
|archive-date=25 Jan 2025}}</ref> The upsell was phrased to give consumers the impression they were staying on the same plan, but the price was increasing with no way to opt out of the new AI features.

In January 2025, YouTuber Atomic Shrimp reported that Microsoft had enacted a "forced up-sell" of 365's new AI Copilot feature.<ref name="video-explanation" /> Users with basic accounts (now called "Classic"), such as Shrimp himself, had been informed that their subscription fee was going up, but that they would enjoy new features, including Copilot. In his efforts to disable Copilot, Shrimp subsequently discovered that Microsoft now offered "Classic" plans identical to the old basic plans, both in features and subscription fees. The option to downgrade to Classic, however, was only clearly visible to enterprise users, not to personal users. In essence, Microsoft upgraded users' plans without their consent and hid the option to downgrade. While Atomic Shrimp's video suggested contacting support to revert to the "Classic" plan, you can downgrade a personal account on the website via the cancellation process.

In October 2025, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) sued Microsoft over the change, accusing it of misleading about 2.7 million customers:<ref name="kumar" />
<blockquote>The ACCC alleges that since 31 October 2024, Microsoft has told subscribers of Microsoft 365 Personal and Family plans with auto-renewal enabled that to maintain their subscription, they must accept the integration of Copilot and pay higher prices for their plan, or, alternatively, cancel their subscription. The ACCC alleges this information provided to subscribers was false or misleading because there was an undisclosed third option, the Microsoft 365 Personal or Family Classic plans, which allowed subscribers to retain the features of their existing plan, without Copilot, at the previous lower price.<ref name="accc">{{Cite web |author= |title=Microsoft in court for allegedly misleading millions of Australians over Microsoft 365 subscriptions
|url=https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/microsoft-in-court-for-allegedly-misleading-millions-of-australians-over-microsoft-365-subscriptions |website=Australian Competition and Consumer Commission |date=27 Oct 2025 |access-date=6 Mar 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251216025233if_/https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/microsoft-in-court-for-allegedly-misleading-millions-of-australians-over-microsoft-365-subscriptions |archive-date=16 Dec 2025}}</ref><ref name="healy">{{Cite web |last=Healy |first=Jane |title=ACCC V Microsoft Concise Statement |url=https://www.accc.gov.au/system/files/accc-v-microsoft-concise-statement-27-october-2025.pdf |website=Australian Competition and Consumer Commission |date=27 Oct 2025
|access-date=6 Mar 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251114100116if_/https://www.accc.gov.au/system/files/accc-v-microsoft-concise-statement-27-october-2025.pdf
|archive-date=14 Nov 2025 |format=PDF}}</ref></blockquote>

===OneDrive===
====OneDrive sharing====
Guest access, a common collaboration feature in other cloud storage providers' ''free'' plans that allows users to invite others to anonymously upload files to a designated folder in their account (e.g., group vacation photos), is now restricted for subscribers to the personal tier to other logged-in Microsoft account holders, eliminating the anonymity aspect. Users who wish to continue inviting others to contribute files to their OneDrive storage without logging in with a Microsoft account must now upgrade to the more expensive OneDrive for Business. The ubiquity of the anonymous guest access model across other major cloud storage services, particularly established providers such as Dropbox, Google, and Proton, has proved an unwelcome surprise to both new and existing subscribers and has made OneDrive a less-attractive option in that sector by comparison.{{Citation needed|date=10 Apr 2026}}

====Obfuscation of local storage in favor of OneDrive====
Since the introduction of Office 365, saving files locally has become more difficult due to Microsoft's preference for [[OneDrive]], its cloud-based storage service. When saving a file previously, the user would encounter a save dialog with a pop-up to browse their computer and choose a file storage location. This is now multiple clicks away, making it harder to avoid saving the file on OneDrive.{{Citation needed|date=10 Apr 2026}}

Files on one's computer are also automatically uploaded to OneDrive by default, causing numerous issues (such as synchronization errors and duplicate files). Turning off this automatic backup is not user-friendly, as the user must navigate multiple settings to disable this option.

The user can go into Options → Save → Set the check mark on "save locally as default". This still requires multiple clicks to save a file, but the cloud options are marginally less intrusive.

===Automatically saving Word documents to the cloud (''2025'')===
In its company blog, Microsoft announced that Word would, by default, create documents and save auto-save information to Microsoft servers. This setting can be manually reconfigured to use the local computer.<ref name="munoz">{{Cite web |last=Munoz |first=Raoul |title=Save new files automatically to the cloud in Word for Windows |url=https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoft365insiderblog/save-new-files-automatically-to-the-cloud-in-word-for-windows/4445216 |website=[[Microsoft]] |date=26 Aug 2025 |access-date=6 Mar 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260131230010/https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/microsoft365insiderblog/save-new-files-automatically-to-the-cloud-in-word-for-windows/4445216 |archive-date=31 Jan 2026}}</ref>

This means all information in the document is uploaded to Microsoft servers before a user has a chance to select local storage when first saving the document.

===Microsoft Publisher===
====Removal from Microsoft 365 computers (''2026'')====
In October 2026, Microsoft will remove Publisher from computers running Microsoft 365 as part of its "end of support" for the application.<ref name="poremsky">{{Cite web |last=Poremsky
|first=Diane |title=Can people keep using Microsoft Publisher unsupported after the end of support date in October 2026 |url=https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/answers/questions/5389573/can-people-keep-using-microsoft-publisher-unsuppor |website=[[Microsoft]] |date=31 Mar 2025 |access-date=6 Mar 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251124135927if_/https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/answers/questions/5389573/can-people-keep-using-microsoft-publisher-unsuppor |archive-date=24 Nov 2025}}</ref> Those with a perpetual license for Publisher, such as the Long-Term Service Channel (LTSC) edition, will still be able to install and use the application, even though it is no longer supported.<ref name="publisher-eol">{{Cite web |author= |title=Microsoft Publisher will no longer be supported after October 2026 |url=https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/microsoft-publisher-will-no-longer-be-supported-after-october-2026-ee6302a2-4bc7-4841-babf-8e9be3acbfd7 |website=[[Microsoft]] |date=2025 |access-date=6 Mar 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250307165545if_/https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/microsoft-publisher-will-no-longer-be-supported-after-october-2026-ee6302a2-4bc7-4841-babf-8e9be3acbfd7 |archive-date=7 Mar 2025}}</ref>

==Avoiding price increases on Microsoft 365 Personal subscriptions==
[[File:Microsoft 365 Personal Classic how-to.jpg|thumb|right|440px|Screenshot of the cancellation page for Microsoft 365 Personal plan subscribers, showing the reduced price offer.]]
On 14 February 2025, Microsoft increased the cost of its entry-level subscription plan, Microsoft 365 Personal, from US$69.99/year to $99.99/year, as part of an announcement that it was adding access to its Copilot AI tool to the tier, which had previously been an optional add-on. In the same announcement, information was provided about a new Classic plan, which would be the spiritual successor to the former Personal plan, offering the same features at the old price. Still, it lacked details on how existing subscribers could switch to it and avoid the forced upgrade. Since March 2025, a mechanism has been in place on the Microsoft website to intercept subscribers on that tier who attempt to cancel their subscription, presenting them instead with an option to switch to a hardly-publicized "Personal Classic" plan instead, which is priced at the former rate of US$69.99/year (see image at right). The Classic plan provides an identical feature set, except for the monthly allotment of Copilot AI access tokens, making it a drop-in replacement for those who aren't interested in the new features and simply want to continue at the original price. Microsoft has stated that the Personal Classic plan is not an official tier on its product roadmap but rather a user-retention tool. Some users who switched to the Classic plan shortly after the price increase have already reported an inability to renew it for a second year at the reduced price.{{Citation needed|date=10 Apr 2026}}

==See also==
*[[Dark pattern]]
*[[Microsoft]]
*[[Software as a service]]

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]
[[Category:Microsoft]]
[[Category:Microsoft Office]]
[[Category:Subscription-based services]]

2026-05-04T14:09:35Z

ClippyFellow47: Major grammar edits to improve tone.

{{ToneWarning}}
{{CompanyCargo
|Description=American instant messaging app used globally.
|Founded=2009
|Industry=Social Media, Messaging
|Logo=WhatsApp Logo green.svg
|ParentCompany=Meta
|Type=Subsidiary
|Website=https://www.whatsapp.com/
}}
'''{{Wplink|WhatsApp}}''' (officially '''WhatsApp Messenger''') is an American instant messaging (IM) and {{Wplink|Voice over IP|voice-over-IP}} (VoIP) service owned by technology conglomerate [[Meta]].

==Consumer impact summary==
{{Ph-C-CIS}}
'''User privacy:''' Collects and shares metadata, while competing apps intentionally collect less to avoid incursions on their users' privacy.<ref>{{Cite web |last1=Elkind |first1=Peter |last2=Gillum |first2=Jack |last3=Silverman |first3=Craig |title=How Facebook Undermines Privacy Protections for Its 2 Billion WhatsApp Users |url=https://www.propublica.org/article/how-facebook-undermines-privacy-protections-for-its-2-billion-whatsapp-users |website=ProPublica |date=7 Sep 2021 |access-date=6 Mar 2025 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210907090516/https://www.propublica.org/article/how-facebook-undermines-privacy-protections-for-its-2-billion-whatsapp-users |archive-date=7 Sep 2021}}</ref>

'''Market control:''' The combination of [[Facebook]], WhatsApp, and [[Instagram]], all owned by Meta, serves billions of active users.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dixon |first=Stacy Jo |title=Most popular social networks worldwide as of April 2024, by number of monthly active users |url=https://www.statista.com/statistics/272014/global-social-networks-ranked-by-number-of-users/ |website=Statista |date=10 Jul 2024 |access-date=6 Mar 2025 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260220152126/https://www.statista.com/statistics/272014/global-social-networks-ranked-by-number-of-users/ |archive-date=20 Feb 2026|quote=''[...] Meta Platforms owns four of the biggest social media platforms, all with more than one billion monthly active users each: Facebook (core platform), WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Instagram.''}}</ref>

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

===Data lock-in===
[[File:WhatsApp suspended account hostage screen.png|thumb|upright|WhatsApp suspended account hostage screen.]]
There are several instances of [[data lock-in]] in WhatsApp. For example, if WhatsApp staff suspend an account, the user is unable to access any messages stored on their device unless they successfully appeal the suspension. This means WhatsApp staff have greater access to some of the data stored on WhatsApp users' devices than the device owners themselves do. Such practices function similarly to {{Wplink|ransomware}}, a type of malware that prevents a user from accessing some or all of their data on a device until a ransom is paid.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gopal |first=Prarthana |title=How to fix the WhatsApp 'This account is not allowed to use WhatsApp' error |url=https://www.androidpolice.com/whatsapp-this-account-is-not-allowed-to-use-whatsapp-error-fix/ |website=Android Police |date=11 May 2024 |access-date=17 Feb 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251212201036/https://www.androidpolice.com/whatsapp-this-account-is-not-allowed-to-use-whatsapp-error-fix/ |archive-date=12 Dec 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Bhatacharjee |first=Sayani |title=How to Unban From WhatsApp Quickly and Regain Access (2024) |url=https://retainiq.io/blog/how-to-unban-from-whatsapp-quickly/ |website=RetainIQ |date=16 Sep 2024 |access-date=17 Feb 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241007151808/https://retainiq.io/blog/how-to-unban-from-whatsapp-quickly/ |archive-date=7 Oct 2024}}</ref>

Users are also unable to access their messaging history if they do not run a recent version. This means users cannot read existing messages until the update is complete. There are situations where users may not be able to update. These include being at a remote location with limited Internet access, exhausting one's mobile data plan, and using an older device for which updating is no longer possible because the latest version of WhatsApp no longer supports the device's operating system.

If a WhatsApp user has not used the service for 4 months, they must repeat the registration process before accessing their message history.<ref>{{Cite web |author=
|title=Seeing “You have been logged out” |url=https://faq.whatsapp.com/120604060995491 |website=WhatsApp |date= |access-date=17 Feb 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260222233358/https://faq.whatsapp.com/120604060995491 |archive-date=22 Feb 2026}}</ref> In addition, changing one's phone number means losing access to all existing messages that were not backed up in advance.

WhatsApp also lets users back up their messages to their [[Google]] account, but they are stored in a format that can only be accessed within WhatsApp, not externally.<ref name="TechCrunch-20220809">{{Cite web |last=Hatmaker |first=Taylor |title=WhatsApp is adding new privacy options, including screenshot blocking and a stealth mode |url=https://techcrunch.com/2022/08/09/whatsapp-privacy-presence-control-screenshot-blocking/ |website=TechCrunch |date=9 Aug 2022 |access-date=17 Feb 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250723202253/https://techcrunch.com/2022/08/09/whatsapp-privacy-presence-control-screenshot-blocking/ |archive-date=23 Jul 2025}}</ref>

WhatsApp provides a chat export feature that lets you save the entire chat history as a text file, optionally including media attachments, into a ZIP file. However, there is no way to export all messages at once. It has to be done for every contact and every group individually. Additionally, starting with an April 2025 update, the other participant can remotely disable exporting via the "Advanced Chat Privacy" feature.

There are legitimate reasons for exporting chats, such as creating backups in a human-readable and non-proprietary format, preempting erroneous account terminations<ref>{{Cite web |last=Voit
|first=Karl |title=You Can't Control Your Data in the Cloud |url=https://karl-voit.at/cloud/ |website=public voit |date=12 Nov 2016 |access-date=17 Feb 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260202071758/https://karl-voit.at/cloud/ |archive-date=2 Feb 2026}}</ref>, searching with external tools, and preserving good memories with people, including those of deceased individuals.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sheeran |first=Ed |title=Ed Sheeran - Old Phone (Official Music Video) |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rj5dxoMY-dE |website=[[YouTube]] |date=8 May 2025 |access-date=17 Feb 2025 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://preservetube.com/watch?v=rj5dxoMY-dE |archive-date=5 Sep 2025}}</ref>

The developers of WhatsApp have threatened to block [[screenshot blocking|screenshots]] inside chats with "advanced chat privacy" enabled:<ref>{{Cite web |last=Baran |first=Guru |title=WhatsApp’s New Advanced Chat Privacy Feature to Protect Sensitive Conversations |url=https://cybersecuritynews.com/whatsapp-advanced-chat-privacy-feature/ |website=Cyber Security News |date=24 Apr 2025 |access-date=17 Feb 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250528151304/https://cybersecuritynews.com/whatsapp-advanced-chat-privacy-feature/ |archive-date=28 May 2025}}</ref>
<blockquote>The company has stated that this is the first iteration of the feature, with plans to introduce even more robust protections in future updates, potentially including measures to block screenshots.
</blockquote>

===Mandatory updates===
WhatsApp requires users to use updated versions of the app by first giving them an in-app warning if they have not updated for a while. If the user still chooses not to update, the app's usage will be disabled entirely.{{Citation needed|reason=How long before this happens? Any screenshots?}} This can pose problems in certain cases, such as being in an area with poor or limited internet connectivity or using an older device that is no longer supported.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Coyle |first=Dylan R. |title=WhatsApp drops support for Android KitKat |url=https://www.androidpolice.com/whatsapp-support-android-kitkat/ |website=Android Police |date=24 Oct 2023 |access-date=17 Feb 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231025193121/https://www.androidpolice.com/whatsapp-support-android-kitkat/ |archive-date=25 Oct 2023}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |author=Ro |title=WhatsApp to drop support for older Android devices on January 1, 2025 |url=https://www.gsmarena.com/whatsapp_to_drop_support_for_older_android_devices_on_january_1_2025-news-65834.php |website=GSMArena |date=22 Dec 2024 |access-date=17 Feb 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260217143250/https://www.gsmarena.com/whatsapp_to_drop_support_for_older_android_devices_on_january_1_2025-news-65834.php |archive-date=17 Feb 2026}}</ref> 

===Message deletion and editing (''2017—'')===
Since late 2017, WhatsApp has allowed message senders to delete messages for a limited duration after sending.<ref>{{Cite web |author=Himanshu |title=WhatsApp gets ability to delete messages |url=https://www.gsmarena.com/whatsapp_gets_ability_to_delete_messages-news-27955.php |website=GMSArena |date=27 Oct 2017 |access-date=17 Feb 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180318124926/https://www.gsmarena.com/whatsapp_gets_ability_to_delete_messages-news-27955.php |archive-date=18 Mar 2018}}</ref> This time limit was extended to slightly over an hour in 2018<ref>{{Cite web |author=Ricky |title=WhatsApp time limit for deleting messages increases to over an hour |url=https://www.gsmarena.com/whatsapp_time_limit_for_deleting_messages_increases_to_over_an_hour-news-30053.php |website=GSMArena |date=12 Mar 2018 |access-date=17 Feb 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180313043109/https://www.gsmarena.com/whatsapp_time_limit_for_deleting_messages_increases_to_over_an_hour-news-30053.php |archive-date=13 Mar 2018}}</ref> and two and a half days in 2022.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mehta |first=Ivan |title=WhatsApp extends time limit to delete a message to 60 hours |url=https://techcrunch.com/2022/08/09/whatsapp-extends-time-limit-to-delete-a-message-to-60-hours/ |website=TechCrunch |date=9 Aug 2022 |access-date=17 Feb 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20240225131536/https://techcrunch.com/2022/08/09/whatsapp-extends-time-limit-to-delete-a-message-to-60-hours/ |archive-date=25 Feb 2024}}</ref> While there is a message noting that "This message was deleted," it is not possible to see what it contained.

Additionally, since 2023, WhatsApp has allowed message senders to edit messages for up to 15 minutes after sending. When the sender edits a message, while it is noted that the message has been edited, the recipient can no longer see the original message.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schroeder |first=Stan |title=WhatsApp finally lets you edit messages, but you have to be fast |url=https://mashable.com/article/whatsapp-edit-messages-feature |website=Mashable |date=23 May 2023 |access-date=17 Feb 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230523172541/https://mashable.com/article/whatsapp-edit-messages-feature |archive-date=23 May 2023}}</ref>

In effect, this WhatsApp feature allows the sender to remotely delete or edit existing information on the recipient's device without the recipient's consent.


===Privacy policy update (''2021'')===
{{Main|WhatsApp updates privacy policy and millions of users flee the platform}}

There was widespread backlash over an upcoming privacy policy update regarding data-sharing procedures with Facebook. It outlined how businesses that use WhatsApp for customer service may store chat logs on Facebook servers.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Statt |first=Nick |title=WhatsApp clarifies it’s not giving all your data to Facebook after surge in Signal and Telegram users |url=https://www.theverge.com/2021/1/12/22226792/whatsapp-privacy-policy-response-signal-telegram-controversy-clarification |website=The Verge |date=12 Jan 2021 |access-date=6 Mar 2025 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210112161057/https://www.theverge.com/2021/1/12/22226792/whatsapp-privacy-policy-response-signal-telegram-controversy-clarification |archive-date=12 Jan 2021}}</ref> The update sparked a broader concern, prompting millions of users to abandon the platform.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hern |first=Alex |title=WhatsApp loses millions of users after terms update |url=https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2021/jan/24/whatsapp-loses-millions-of-users-after-terms-update |website=The Guardian |date=24 Jan 2021 |access-date=6 Mar 2025 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210124165416/https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2021/jan/24/whatsapp-loses-millions-of-users-after-terms-update |archive-date=24 Jan 2021}}</ref>

===Disappearing messages (2021-2022)===
WhatsApp also introduced "view-once" messages in 2021 and disabled screen captures of them in 2022. "View-once" messages are deleted after being viewed.<ref name="TechCrunch-20220809" />

===Disabling screen captures of profile pictures (''2024—'')===
In March 2024, WhatsApp began turning off screen captures of profile pictures viewed in full-screen mode to "protect the privacy" of its users. This is made possible because mainstream mobile operating systems, [[Android]] and [[iOS]], allow applications to disable screen capture on devices without the consent of device owners.<ref>{{Cite web |author= |title=About profile photo screenshot blocking |url=https://faq.whatsapp.com/1799783917198636 |website=WhatsApp |date= |access-date=17 Feb 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251109165725/https://faq.whatsapp.com/1799783917198636 |archive-date=9 Nov 2025}}</ref>

Profile pictures are not mandatory to use WhatsApp and are therefore images that a user has voluntarily made accessible on their profile. As such, profile pictures are not private images.

===Introduction of advertising (''2025'')===
In June 2025, Meta announced that it would introduce ads globally on WhatsApp.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Scharon|first=Harding |title=Ads are “rolling out gradually” to WhatsApp
|url=https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2025/06/ads-are-rolling-out-gradually-to-whatsapp/ |website=Ars Technica |date=16 Jun 2025 |access-date=18 Jun 2025 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250616190958/https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2025/06/ads-are-rolling-out-gradually-to-whatsapp/ |archive-date=16 Jun 2025}}</ref> Previously, Meta (then known as Facebook) stated in 2014, after it acquired the application:
<blockquote>''("[...] And you can still count on absolutely no ads interrupting your communication.")''.<ref>{{Cite web |author= |title=Facebook |url=https://blog.whatsapp.com/facebook |website=WhatsApp |date=19 Feb 2014 |access-date=18 Jun 2025 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250806121407/https://blog.whatsapp.com/facebook |archive-date=6 Aug 2025}}</ref></blockquote>

The personalized ads also utilize data from linked accounts on other Meta platforms.<ref>{{Cite web |author= |title=Helping You Find More Channels and Businesses on WhatsApp |url=https://about.fb.com/news/2025/06/helping-you-find-more-channels-businesses-on-whatsapp/ |website=[[Meta]] |date=16 Jun 2025 |access-date=17 Feb 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260126172044/https://about.fb.com/news/2025/06/helping-you-find-more-channels-businesses-on-whatsapp/ |archive-date=26 Jan 2026}}</ref>

==Alternatives==
*[https://www.signal.org Signal] offers most of the same features, and while [[Signal data collection|not without some issues]], the app is open source, relies on Privacy by Design, and is operated by a non-profit.

*[https://matrix.org/ Matrix] is more private and uses a federated design, but setup is slightly more involved than that of a commercial messenger.

*[https://telegram.org/ Telegram] is the most popular alternative and is end-user-friendly, with minimal content moderation. Before a September 2024 policy change, it refused to hand over user data to law enforcement upon request.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Jamali |first=Lily |title=Telegram will now provide some user data to authorities |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvglp0xny3eo |website=BBC |date=23 Sep 2024 |access-date=22 Jul 2025 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240923225048/https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvglp0xny3eo |archive-date=23 Sep 2024}}</ref>

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:WhatsApp messenger]]

Enshittification

2026-04-03T15:03:19Z

ClippyFellow47: Major Grammar edits to improve tone; Continuation from yesterday's edits.

{{Incomplete|Issue 1=Some sections are lacking adequate source population or quality|Issue 2=Some sections are far too brief, or aren't even written|Issue 3=Lack of depth; there's not enough links of data that connects each stage together, not to mention real-world examples of companies going through the full process.}}{{ToneWarning}}

'''Platform decay''', commonly known as '''[[wikipedia:Enshittification|Enshittification]]''' or '''crapification''', is a practice in which companies (usually large ones) allow the quality of the products or services they provide to decline over time.

The term was first coined by tech blogger [[wikipedia:Cory Doctorow|Cory Doctorow]] in November 2022<ref>{{Cite web |last=Doctorow |first=Cory |date=28 Nov 2022 |title=Pluralistic: How monopoly enshittified Amazon/28 Nov 2022 |url=https://pluralistic.net/2022/11/28/enshittification/ |url-status=live |access-date=18 Aug 2025 |website=Pluralistic |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260216121528/https://pluralistic.net/2022/11/28/enshittification/ |archive-date=16 Feb 2026}}</ref>, popularized by Arun Maini (Mrwhosetheboss)<ref>[https://www.uniladtech.com/news/tech-news/mrwhosetheboss-explains-google-search-broken-715030-20241030 Popular tech YouTuber exposes why 'broken' Google Search is falling apart] ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251117215634/https://www.uniladtech.com/news/tech-news/mrwhosetheboss-explains-google-search-broken-715030-20241030 Archived])</ref><ref>The Internet is starting to Break - Here's Why. - Mrwhosetheboss</ref><ref>Why Google Search is Falling Apart. - Mrwhosetheboss</ref>, and has since gained widespread recognition.<ref>{{Cite web |title=enshittification |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/slang/enshittification |url-status=live |access-date=18 Aug 2025 |website=Merriam-Webster |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260222030743/https://www.merriam-webster.com/slang/enshittification |archive-date=22 Feb 2026}}</ref>

==How it works==
The platform decay practice is done in three stages. Initially, the companies create high-quality products or service offerings, usually by offering users a product or service at a low price (or sometimes for free). This works as an easy way to attract users and consumers and undercut the competition. Later, the offerings and platform quality decline, often with subtle changes, worsening users' experience during a transition to prioritize profits for business customers. At the end, they decline quality for both regular and business customers to prioritize shareholder profits.

It is an effective practice amongst large corporations that offer a monopoly product or service. When there's no significant competence, the enshittification may persist longer, as users may be unable to leave the platform because they're used to it or because they can't find similar alternatives that meet their needs. These practices could also cause provider companies to incur irreparable reputational damage. According to Cory Doctorow on ''Wired,'' 2023:

<blockquote>''"It is a seemingly inevitable consequence arising from the combination of the ease of changing how a platform allocates value, combined with the nature of a "two-sided market," where a platform sits between buyers and sellers, holding each hostage to the other, raking off an ever-larger share of the value that passes between them."'' <ref>{{Cite web |last=Doctorow |first=Cory |date=23 Jan 2023 |title=The ‘Enshittification’ of TikTok |url=https://www.wired.com/story/tiktok-platforms-cory-doctorow/ |url-status=live |access-date=18 Aug 2025 |website=WIRED |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260120085207/https://www.wired.com/story/tiktok-platforms-cory-doctorow/ |archive-date=20 Jan 2026}}</ref></blockquote>
===1. Incentivizing mass adoption===
Companies begin by offering a product or service that provides a high-quality experience or usage for users, while constantly listening to user feedback. Another common practice to attract users is to offer a low or affordable price for most consumers. They basically create something "too good" to be free or low-cost. This leads to a visible, well-known product or service that makes it easy to build communities and user bases.

A documented example of this phase is [[Uber]] aggressively using investor capital to fund massive subsidies, paying to acquire both drivers and passengers.<ref>{{Cite web |title=How Uber Disrupted An Industry With An Explosive Approach |url=https://www.cascade.app/studies/uber-strategy-study#:~:text=Uber%20combined%20that%20initial%20campaign,rider%20sides%20faster%20and%20easier. |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251112132833/https://www.cascade.app/studies/uber-strategy-study |archive-date=12 Nov 2025}}</ref> It was initially well-received for offering competitive transportation prices, leading to a large user base adopting the platform.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wolff |first=Micheal |date=22 Dec 2013 |title=Wolff: The tech company of the year is Uber |url=https://eu.usatoday.com/story/money/columnist/wolff/2013/12/22/the-success-of-app-based-car-service-uber/4141669/ |url-status=live |access-date=18 Aug 2025 |website=USA TODAY |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250414222632/https://eu.usatoday.com/story/money/columnist/wolff/2013/12/22/the-success-of-app-based-car-service-uber/4141669/ |archive-date=14 Apr 2025}}</ref>

===2. Catering to business clients===
Once communities and user bases are stable, companies begin offering products and services to business customers, providing strong incentives. These partnerships and the new profit-making focus are eroding the user experience through tactics such as ads and sponsored content.

A documented example of this phase is seen in the case of [[Reddit]] removing free access to its API near the time of its Initial public offering (IPO).<ref name="TheVergeAnnouncement">{{Cite web |last=Shakir |first=Umar |date=April 18, 2023 |title=Reddit's upcoming API changes will make AI companies pony up |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/4/18/23688463/reddit-developer-api-terms-change-monetization-ai |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230614020642/https://www.theverge.com/2023/4/18/23688463/reddit-developer-api-terms-change-monetization-ai |archive-date=June 14, 2023 |access-date=June 17, 2023 |work=[[The Verge]]}}</ref> Then, in 2024, Reddit struck a $60 million deal with [[Google]] to grant access to its user-generated content for AI training data.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Tong |first=Anna |last2=Wang |first2=Echo |last3=Coulter |first3=Martin |last4=Tong |first4=Anna |last5=Wang |first5=Echo |date=2024-02-22 |title=Exclusive: Reddit in AI content licensing deal with Google |url=https://www.reuters.com/technology/reddit-ai-content-licensing-deal-with-google-sources-say-2024-02-22/ |access-date=2025-06-20 |work=Reuters |language=en |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260112221447/https://www.reuters.com/technology/reddit-ai-content-licensing-deal-with-google-sources-say-2024-02-22/ |archive-date=12 Jan 2026}}</ref>

===3. Quality degradation for shareholders===
When both users and business partners are locked in, the company shifts its surpluses to the shareholders. It no longer has any incentive to grow or maintain quality for either of its customer bases, and it relentlessly seeks profit at any cost for shareholders. Companies at this stage also tend to have such a large market presence that switching barriers naturally (or intentionally) fall into place for those trying to leave for alternatives.

An ongoing example is [[YouTube]]'s [[YouTube#Crackdown against ad-blockers|crackdown on users who use ad blockers]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=YouTube intensifies crackdown on ad blockers {{!}} AdGuard |url=https://adguard.com/en/blog/youtube-new-banner-adblockers-violate-tos.html |access-date=2025-06-20 |website=AdGuard Blog |language=en}} ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251211160954/https://adguard.com/en/blog/youtube-new-banner-adblockers-violate-tos.html Archived])</ref> While such a crackdown might reduce ad-blocker usage and increase short-term shareholder returns, it degrades the user experience and reduces the quality of impressions for advertisers. Over 30% of the world's population uses YouTube, with a ~98% market share in online video media.<ref>{{Cite web |title=YouTube - Market Share, Competitor Insights in Media Players And Streaming Platforms |url=https://www.6sense.com/tech/media-players-and-streaming-platforms/youtube-market-share |access-date=2025-06-20 |website=6sense |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250429132430/https://6sense.com/tech/media-players-and-streaming-platforms/youtube-market-share |archive-date=29 Apr 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=23 Essential YouTube Statistics You Need to Know in 2025 |url=https://thesocialshepherd.com/blog/youtube-statistics |access-date=2025-06-20 |website=The Social Shepherd |language=en |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260124141601/https://thesocialshepherd.com/blog/youtube-statistics |archive-date=24 Jan 2026}}</ref>

==Why is this a problem?==

===Erosion of user experiences===
It can cause frustration among customers; for example, [[Netflix]] has started locking movies behind expensive plans, forcing customers to subscribe to a more expensive plan.

Enshittification can also lead to [[wikipedia:Feature creep|feature creep]] - especially when new features of a product are intended to lock in users further and increase revenue. This creep can lead to an overall reduction in performance due to [[Bloatware|bloat]] and increased complexity, reducing a product's usability. A prime example of feature creep, in large part due to late-stage enshittification, is [[Microsoft Windows]].

===Switching barriers===
Enshittified platforms that act as intermediaries can act as both a monopoly on services and a monopsony on customers, as high switching barriers prevent either from leaving even when better alternatives technically exist. These barriers can be intentionally put in place - such as restricting the user's ability to transfer data or communicate between platforms - or unintentional, such as a platform's userbase being so large that it naturally makes it near impossible for users or partners to find equivalent engagement on an alternative platform.

An example of this would be a long-time eBay seller hoping to leave the site for an alternative with lower fees (such as eBay's competitors, like Etsy or Mercari). They might first encounter issues migrating all of their listings over to the new platform, a process that could be tedious. Their feedback history will certainly not carry over to the new platform, so buyers are initially less likely to view them as trustworthy, potentially impacting sales. Lastly, the alternative platform likely has a vastly smaller user base than eBay, so, despite any potential benefits, the seller is less likely to be successful on the new platform than on eBay.

Such switching barriers can create an adversarial relationship between platform users or business partners and the company on which they depend. Users or partners cannot succeed without access to the platform's wide reach, but that access leaves them wholly dependent on a company whose interests no longer align with theirs.

===Platform death===
A potential end-scenario for enshittified platforms is death, usually caused by a large enough exodus of users and business partners, and a general loss of trust. A platform may not truly "die" per se, but it can completely lose the identity that made it successful in the first place - and might not ever regain it. An ongoing example is [[X Corp|Twitter]] post Elon Musk's takeover. Under its new ownership and branding, the platform lost swathes of its userbase and advertisers to alternative platforms (such as Bluesky after its policy shifts proved widely unpopular.

However, the death of an enshittified platform is not a particularly positive outcome. It uproots a long-established userbase and can greatly disrupt their activities. There is also the chance that alternative platforms lack feature parity with the old platform or that they might not be able to support the massive influx of new users, at least for some time. At worst, data loss could be involved, meaning years' worth of information - if not archived beforehand - could potentially be lost if a platform shuts down in some capacity.

==Common signs==
Products and services that are affected by enshittification usually apply these practices (that could be subtle at first) to their product or services:

*Modifications of [[terms of service]] or [[terms of use]] to include anti-consumer practices.
*[[Advertising overload]] to prioritize advertiser profits and encourage users to pay to disable (or limit) ad visibility.
*[[Pay-walling]] or limiting functions or features, usually ones that were free at first. This can also lead to [[monetization overload]]. In some cases, a function or feature might be completely removed.
*Integration of [[Bloatware]].
*Price gouging or [[Value based pricing|surge pricing]].
*In physical products, lower-quality or less durable materials are used to manufacture products to minimize costs. In some cases, this practice is alongside [[planned obsolescence]].
*In software, low-quality updates and features, in some cases involving the usage of [[AI slop]].
*Provider companies ignore user feedback that calls for reverting or removing features that reduce partnership or shareholder profits.
*Difficulties or inabilities to remove a payment method or to cancel a subscription.

==Examples==
===E-commerce===
{{Hatnote|Main articles: [[Amazon]], [[eBay]]}}
In Doctorow's original post, he discussed [[Amazon|Amazon's]] practices. The online retailer initially drew in users with products sold at a loss and free shipping. Once its user base was well established, more sellers began selling their products on Amazon. Finally, Amazon began to add fees to increase profits. In 2023, over 45% of the sale price of items went to Amazon through various fees. Amazon also allows sellers to push their listings higher in search results via its paid Sponsored Products program. Doctorow described advertisement within Amazon as a payola scheme in which sellers bid against one another for search-ranking preference, and said that the first five pages of a search for "cat beds" were half advertisements

eBay is another e-commerce site that followed a similar trajectory, initially offering low fees and a robust buyer and seller protection system. Once its userbase of largely secondhand buyers and sellers was solidified, eBay raised seller fees. It began incentivizing large-volume sellers - often actual businesses - with lower selling fees if they subscribed to an eBay Store. eBay sellers are also no longer able to leave negative feedback for buyers, greatly reducing sellers' ability to avoid bad actors. Since then, eBay has introduced promoted listings, which are effectively analogous to Amazon's paid sponsored listings. eBay has also encouraged sellers to use AI-generated descriptions that often misrepresent the condition of items being sold and has opted all of its users into in-house AI training [[Ebay AI opt in by default|by default]] as of its April 21, 2025, privacy policy revision.

===Media streaming platforms===
{{Hatnote|Main articles: [[Netflix]], [[Prime Video]], [[Disney+]]}}
The enshittification of Netflix is similarly reflected in other competing streaming platforms such as YouTube TV and Amazon Prime Video, where prices have increased despite a decline (or at least no perceivable improvement) in overall service quality. Multiple providers have also downgraded their cheapest paid plans, now bundling ads.

===Search engines===
{{Hatnote|Main articles: [[Google]], [[Bing]]}}
Google started as an ad-free search engine but then began adding sponsored links at the top of search results, making them less distinguishable from non-ad links. {{Citation needed}} In 2024, Google started rolling out AI Overview, an AI-generated summary that appears at the top of the search results. Due to the release being rushed and not having proper revisions, the AI Overview showed inaccurate and potentially dangerous overviews, such as encouraging eating rocks, suggesting putting glue on top of pizza as a solution to cheese sliding off, encouraging smoking during pregnancy, encouraging suicide, and suggesting users jump off the Golden Gate Bridge.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Goodwin |first=Danny |date=24 May 2024 |title=Google AI Overviews under fire for giving dangerous and wrong answers |url=https://searchengineland.com/google-ai-overview-fails-442575 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250623180113/https://searchengineland.com/google-ai-overview-fails-442575 |archive-date=23 Jun 2025 |access-date=21 Jul 2025 |work=Search Engine Land}}</ref> Google has responded to those issues and temporarily disabled the AI overview. While those incidents have been fixed and the AI Overview has been made available again, the AI overview still shows inaccurate results caused by hallucinations, biases, and the citing of non-verifiable sources, often citing satire comments as factual sources or making stuff up. The AI overview has also been criticized for being considered unwanted or unnecessary, environmentally harmful, raising privacy concerns, and reducing traffic to genuine sites, encouraging people to rely on the overview instead of visiting sites to obtain the information they're looking for.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Perez |first=Sarah |date=15 Jul 2025 |title=Google Discover adds AI summaries, threatening publishers with further traffic declines |url=https://techcrunch.com/2025/07/15/google-discover-adds-ai-summaries-threatening-publishers-with-further-traffic-declines/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250718124612/https://techcrunch.com/2025/07/15/google-discover-adds-ai-summaries-threatening-publishers-with-further-traffic-declines/ |archive-date=18 Jul 2025 |access-date=21 Jul 2025 |work=TechCrunch}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Bellan |first=Rebecca |date=10 Jun 2025 |title=Google’s AI search features are killing traffic to publishers |url=https://techcrunch.com/2025/06/10/googles-ai-overviews-are-killing-traffic-for-publishers/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250714040741/https://techcrunch.com/2025/06/10/googles-ai-overviews-are-killing-traffic-for-publishers/ |archive-date=14 Jul 2025 |access-date=21 Jul 2025 |work=TechCrunch}}</ref>

===Social media===

====Facebook====
{{Main|Facebook}}
[[Facebook]] has shifted from a network for personal connections to a platform dominated by advertising and algorithmic manipulation. User data is monetized at the expense of privacy, while the quality of organic content has steadily declined.

====Instagram====
{{Main|Instagram}}
Instagram once centered on creativity and social sharing, but now prioritizes sponsored posts, shopping features, and influencer marketing. Users’ ability to control their feeds has been reduced, reflecting the platform’s focus on profit over consumer experience.

=====Reddit=====
{{Main|Reddit}}
Reddit’s 2023 API changes exemplify enshitification, undermining community tools and third-party apps in favor of advertising revenue. This has eroded user autonomy and restricted consumer choice.

====Twitter/X====
{{Main|X Corp}}
Following its acquisition and rebrand, Twitter/X introduced [[Pay-walling|paywalls]] for basic features, weakened its moderation, and increased sponsored content. The result has been degraded service and a diminished consumer experience.

====TikTok====
{{Main|TikTok}}
TikTok’s powerful recommendation algorithm drives engagement but also funnels users into repetitive content while saturating feeds with advertising. Concerns over data exploitation further highlight the imbalance between corporate gain and consumer rights.

====YouTube====
{{Main|YouTube}}
YouTube has expanded ad loads and aggressively promoted subscriptions, while algorithmic changes often disadvantage independent creators. Consumers face reduced choice and increased intrusion, hallmarks of enshitification.

====Discord====
{{Main|Discord}}
Discord's primary selling point is that it is the most widely used platform for online communication, especially for communities.{{Citation needed}} Because of this dominance, it has caused barriers for users intending to switch to alternative platforms such as Stoat or Matrix, as a lack of common users between platforms makes it difficult for more users to transfer over.{{Citation needed}} This fact has been abused by Discord with its infrastructure showing signs of decay,{{Citation needed}} the introduction of advertisements in the format of "quests",{{Citation needed}} and the degradation of free perks.{{Citation needed}}

===Software===

====Adobe====
{{Main|Adobe}}
'''Users losing their perpetual licenses''': Starting in 2013, Adobe eliminated the option to purchase perpetual licenses for core products like Photoshop, Illustrator, and Premiere. Users must now maintain an ongoing subscription to access the software. Canceling payments disables applications regardless of prior investment, dramatically increasing long-term costs and removing user ownership in favor of recurring subscriptions.

'''Loss of files on deactivated products''': Many Adobe file formats (PSD, AI, INDD, AE project files) are proprietary and poorly supported by third-party software. When a subscription ends, users are unable to open, export, or meaningfully edit their own historical work, effectively creating [[data lock-in]] for user-created content to enforce continued payment.

'''Mandatory Creative Cloud account:''' By applying [[Digital rights management|DRM]] to offline tools, software that normally runs locally requires frequent online authentication via the Creative Cloud desktop app. Forced sign-ins, background services, and periodic license checks can unexpectedly disable software, undermine reliability, and make professional tools dependent on Adobe’s servers.

'''Dark patterns in subscription cancellation:''' Adobe’s subscription plans use confusing billing structures (such as “annual plans billed monthly”) that impose early termination fees. Cancellation flows are [[Dark pattern|deliberately complex]], with obscured options and repeated retention prompts, leading users to pay for longer than intended or to be penalized for leaving.

====Microsoft Windows====
{{Main|Microsoft Windows 11}}
'''Forced Microsoft account sign-in:''' Beginning with Windows 10 and further enforced in Windows 11, Microsoft increasingly requires users to sign in with a Microsoft account during setup. This restricts offline use, obscures the option to create a local account, and facilitates expanded telemetry collection and ecosystem lock-in.

'''Baked-in advertising:''' Despite being a commercial software, Windows includes advertisements and promotional content in the Start Menu, lock screen, system notifications, and settings panels, used to promote Microsoft 365, OneDrive, Edge, and other services and proprietary software. Even when users disable these features, they are frequently re-enabled after major updates.

'''Dark patterns in first-party applications''': Microsoft applications repeatedly nudge users toward Microsoft-preferred choices. Edge persistently prompts users to set it as the default browser and displays warnings when switching away. OneDrive frames cloud uploads as “protecting your files,” obscuring the fact that local folders are being redirected to Microsoft’s servers. Subscription prompts often lack a clear “Never ask again” option, offering only choices such as “Try for free” or “Maybe later” as in Microsoft 365. Windows U.S.

'''Baked-in telemetry:''' Telemetry and diagnostic data collection are enabled by default, particularly in non-Enterprise editions, with only limited controls available to disable or reduce them. Most data collection is vaguely documented, undermining informed consent.

'''Loss of user control over updates''': Windows updates cannot be permanently disabled through standard settings. Users can only defer updates for a limited period (up to four weeks), after which downloads and installations are often forced, sometimes causing unexpected restarts or re-enabling previously disabled features without user consent.

'''Degraded local search in favor of web search:''' The start menu and file search experience has progressively gotten worse, blending local results with Bing web searches. This often prioritizes online content and advertisements over fast, predictable local file and application discovery, thereby reducing usability to promote Microsoft’s search and advertising ecosystem.

===Video Games===

====Unity====
{{Main|Unity}}
Unity Software Inc. implemented sweeping changes to its Unity pricing model, affecting all engine users, forcing them to either adopt the per-download fee or delist their games.

====Mobile Games====
{{Hatnote|Main articles: [[Apple App Store]], [[Google Play Store]]}}
A lot of mobile games have fallen into enshittified experiences. The [[Free to Play|Free-to-play]] business model took off with users bombarded by ads, [[Microtransactions|microtransactions]], [[Battle passes|battle passes]], energy systems, and more, to extract as much money as possible from players' pockets while making the experience less fun. The video game Angry Birds is a good example of this. What started as a very simple game now has all the aforementioned tactics baked in, rendering the playing experience tedious and unpleasant.

==Possible solutions==

===Legislation and movements===
{{Hatnote|Main articles: [[GDPR]], [[Free software movement]]}}

===Right of exit===
{{see also|Click-to-cancel|Interoperability}}

The right of exit, or Data portability, is the right of a user to leave a platform without losing the data stored on it, and instead to export and access it in various applications of the user's choice.<ref>{{Cite web |title=DataPortability Project |url=http://www.dataportability.org/ |url-status=unfit |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090723171111/http://www.dataportability.org/ |archive-date=23 Jul 2009 |access-date=18 Aug 2025 |website=DataPortability}}</ref>

==Further reading==

*https://pluralistic.net/2024/01/30/go-nuts-meine-kerle/#ich-bin-ein-bratapfel
*https://www.darkpattern.games/

==External links==

*[https://youtu.be/T4Upf_B9RLQ "A Day in the Life of an Ensh*ttificator"], by [https://www.youtube.com/@Forbrukerr%C3%A5detNorge Forbrukerrådet - Norwegian Consumer Council], 2026
*[https://youtu.be/NBZv0_MImIY "Y'all mind if I complain for 15 minutes?"], by [[wikipedia:Jaiden_Animations|Jaiden Dittfach]], 2025. In this video, she talks about how things have "become less efficient" and "more stupid".
*[https://eev.ee/blog/2025/07/03/the-rise-of-whatever/ "The rise of Whatever"]
*[https://gavinhoward.com/2023/11/your-loved-ones-are-prisoners-and-you-made-the-chain "Digital chains and modern feudalism"]

==References==
{{reflist}}

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

Vultr

2026-04-03T14:35:17Z

ClippyFellow47: Minor grammar edits to improve tone

{{ToneWarning|Needs to be written in a more neutral tone of voice.}}
{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=2014
|Industry=Cloud computing
|Logo=Vultr.png
|ParentCompany=
|Type=Private
|Website=https://vultr.com/
|Description=
}}

'''{{Wplink|Vultr}}''', founded in 2014, is an American cloud service company. Among those cloud services are storage, servers, and databases.

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

'''Privacy:''' Vultr collects industry-standard information necessary to provide the service, including registration and billing information, as well as IP addresses. It also collects usage data when interacting with their services (this does not include the user's data stored on their servers). Vultr's privacy policy states that the information is used to improve their services and shared with third parties for marketing purposes, including targeted advertisements.<ref>{{Cite web |author= |title=Legal: Privacy |url=https://www.vultr.com/legal/privacy/ |website=Vultr |date=10 Dec 2025 |access-date=22 Feb 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260115003714/https://www.vultr.com/legal/privacy/ |archive-date=15 Jan 2026}}</ref>

'''Transparency:''' Vultr has had major issues regarding its transparency in the past.{{Citation needed}} Their compliance with information security best practices, verified routinely by external audits, has earned the company multiple industry-recognized certifications and attestations such as [https://secureframe.com/hub/soc-2/what-is-soc-2 SOC 2 Type II] and [https://www.iso.org/standard/27001 ISO 27001].<ref>{{Cite web |author= |title=Security and Compliance |url=https://www.vultr.com/legal/compliance/ |website=Vultr |date= |access-date=15 Mar 2025 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250328093828/https://www.vultr.com/legal/compliance/ |archive-date=28 Mar 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |author= |title=Announcing Vultr's New ISO Certifications |url=https://blogs.vultr.com/Announcing-Vultrs-New-ISO-Certifications |website=Vultr |date= |access-date=15 Mar 2025 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241213132458/https://blogs.vultr.com/Announcing-Vultrs-New-ISO-Certifications |archive-date=13 Dec 2024}}</ref> As explained below, Vultr is quite suspicious due to the rights it claimed in the past over user content and the license it granted itself to manage that data, which users store on Vultr's servers. Right now, the wording of those policies is unclear.

==Incidents==
===Vultr amends its terms of service (''2024'')===

Initially, Vultr's [[terms of service]] (TOS) declared the following content policy for users in clause 5.1:<ref name="tos_2016">{{Cite web |author= |title=Legal |url=https://www.vultr.com/legal/tos/ |website=Vultr |date= |access-date= |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160419054251/https://www.vultr.com/legal/tos/ |archive-date=19 Apr 2016}}</ref>
<blockquote>“As between You and Vultr, Vultr acknowledges that it claims no proprietary rights in or to the content (including, without limitation, text, software, music, sound, audio visual works, motion pictures, photographs, animation, video, and graphics) supplied by You for use on Your website ("Your Content"). You hereby grant to Vultr a non-exclusive, worldwide and royalty-free license to copy, make derivative works, display, perform, use, broadcast, and transmit on and via the Internet Your Content, solely for the benefit of You and to enable Vultr to perform its obligations hereunder.”</blockquote>

In June 2021, Vultr rewrote large portions of its TOS, moving clause 5.1 to 15(c), and adding the following content policy under clause ''12.1(a)''<ref name="tos_2021">{{Cite web |author=
|title=Legal Section 12: User Content |url=https://www.vultr.com/legal/tos/#tos_12 |website=Vultr |date= |access-date= |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210729200233/https://www.vultr.com/legal/tos/#tos_12 |archive-date=29 Jul 2021}}</ref>, which would become highly controversial:
<blockquote>“You hereby grant to Vultr a non-exclusive, perpetual, irrevocable, royalty-free, fully paid-up, worldwide license (including the right to sublicense through multiple tiers) to use, reproduce, process, adapt, publicly perform, publicly display, modify, prepare derivative works, publish, transmit and distribute each of your User Content, or any portion thereof, in any form, medium or distribution method now known or hereafter existing, known or developed, and otherwise use and commercialize the User Content in any way that Vultr deems appropriate, without any further consent, notice and/or compensation to you or to any third parties, for purposes of providing the Services to you.”</blockquote>

In addition to this, a new statement appeared in the ''Terms of Service Highlights'' which strongly implies that users implicitly "agree" to any existing or new terms every time they use Vultr's services:<ref name="tos_2021" />
<blockquote>“Each time you access and/or use the Services, you agree to be bound by these Terms and any Additional Terms that apply to you.”</blockquote>

Despite this remark, Vultr occasionally asks users to reaffirm their acceptance of those terms.

In March 2024, Vultr asked users to accept its new terms, including clause 12.1(a) mentioned above.<ref name="vultr_blog">{{Cite web |author= |title=A Note About Vultr's Terms of Service |url=https://blogs.vultr.com/a-note-about-vultrs-terms-of-service |website=Vultr |date=29 Mar 2024 |access-date=22 Feb 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250708192330/https://blogs.vultr.com/a-note-about-vultrs-terms-of-service |archive-date=8 Jul 2025}}</ref> This sparked outrage among users, who hadn't noticed the 12.1(a) policy until 2024, three years after its debut (as is typical for [[hidden EULA language]]). The most notable complaint came from a [[Reddit]] post claiming that Vultr has the right to use user data for training artificial intelligence.<ref>{{Cite web |author=WyvernCo |title=Warning: Vultr (a major cloud provider) is now claiming full perpetual commercial rights over all hosted content |url=https://old.reddit.com/r/selfhosted/comments/1bouuv7/warning_vultr_a_major_cloud_provider_is_now/ |website=[[Reddit]] |date=27 Mar 2024 |access-date=15 Mar 2025 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250520082633/https://old.reddit.com/r/selfhosted/comments/1bouuv7/warning_vultr_a_major_cloud_provider_is_now/ |archive-date=20 May 2025}}</ref> In response to the criticism, Vultr's legal team altered clause 12.1(a) the next day (after the post) to delete the offending paragraph.<ref>{{Cite web |author= |title=Legal Section 12: User Content |url=https://www.vultr.com/legal/tos/#tos_12 |website=Vultr |date= |access-date=15 Mar 2025 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240328233729/https://www.vultr.com/legal/tos/#tos_12 |archive-date=28 Mar 2024}}</ref>

The user backlash also provoked an official response from Vultr in which the company wrote:<ref name="vultr_blog" />
<blockquote>“We value the feedback we receive from our customers, and we want to assure you that Vultr claims no rights to your content. Vultr has never claimed any rights to, used, accessed, nor allowed access to or shared your content, other than as may be required by law or for security purposes.”</blockquote>

Despite Vultr's vow that access to users' content is for security purposes only, the wording of its TOS did not reflect this. It was widely criticized as a gross failure in transparency or, more cynically, as a stealthy attempt to seize the rights to users' personal data for any purpose, without consent.

As of February 2026, the older 15(c) clause remains in force:<ref>{{Cite web |author= |title=Legal Section 15: Intellectual Property Rights |url=https://www.vultr.com/legal/tos/#tos_15 |website=Vultr |date= |access-date=22 Feb 2026 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250124095655/https://www.vultr.com/legal/tos/#tos_15 |archive-date=24 Jan 2025}}</ref>
<blockquote>“As between You and Vultr, Vultr acknowledges that it claims no proprietary rights in or to Your Content. You hereby grant to Vultr a non-exclusive, worldwide and royalty-free license to copy, make derivative works, display, perform, use, broadcast, and transmit on and via the Internet Your Content, solely for the benefit of You and to enable Vultr to perform its obligations under these Terms.”</blockquote>

Note that the wording of this statement closely mimics Vultr's original 5.1 clause predating 2021. Despite the reassuring tone of this license, it remains unclear what "solely for the benefit of You" means in this context, as that phrase does not appear elsewhere in the TOS.

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

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

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:Vultr]]

LG G4 malfunctions

2026-04-03T14:30:57Z

ClippyFellow47: Grammar edits to improve tone.

{{Incomplete}}
{{ToneWarning}}
{{IncidentCargo
|Company=LG
|StartDate=2015
|EndDate=
|Status=
|ProductLine=
|Product=G4
|ArticleType=Product
|Type=Poor Quality
|Description=
}}
The '''LG G4''' [[Android]] smartphone, developed by [[LG]] Electronics as part of the {{Wplink|LG G series}}, was released in April 2015.

Shortly after its release, issues were found that made the device unstable or inoperable, resulting in {{Wplink|data loss}}. LG released a series of forced updates, which were automatically installed without the user's consent.<ref>{{Cite web |first=Nicole |last=Arce |title=AT&T LG G4 Users Complain Of Automatic Update: What's Happening? |url=https://www.techtimes.com/articles/59241/20150610/at-t-lg-g4-users-complain-of-automatic-update-whats-happening.htm |website=Tech Times |date=10 Jun 2015 |access-date=11 Jul 2025 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150612201958/https://www.techtimes.com/articles/59241/20150610/at-t-lg-g4-users-complain-of-automatic-update-whats-happening.htm |archive-date=12 Jun 2015}}</ref>

==Issues==
===Touchscreen===
In 2015, it was identified that the G4 was experiencing touchscreen issues, leading to the device becoming unresponsive or restarting.<ref>{{Cite web |first=Ketan |last=Pratap |title=Some LG G4 Users Reporting Touchscreen Issues; LG Says It's Investigating |url=https://www.gadgets360.com/mobiles/news/some-lg-g4-users-reporting-touchscreen-issues-lg-says-its-investigating-704572 |website=Gadgets 360 |date=17 Jun 2015 |access-date=11 Jul 2025 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221001181541/https://www.gadgets360.com/mobiles/news/some-lg-g4-users-reporting-touchscreen-issues-lg-says-its-investigating-704572 |archive-date=1 Oct 2022}}</ref> LG released several patches to address the issue, though some had to be pulled due to causing more problems for the device. By November 2015, LG released a series of software updates to address the issue.<ref>{{Cite web |first=Anu |last=Passary |title=LG Outs Fix For LG G4 Touchscreen Issues |url=https://www.techtimes.com/articles/62417/20150622/lg-outs-fix-for-lg-g4-touchscreen-issues.htm |website=Tech Times |date=6 Jun 2015
|access-date=11 Jul 2025 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150623144513/https://www.techtimes.com/articles/62417/20150622/lg-outs-fix-for-lg-g4-touchscreen-issues.htm
|archive-date=23 Jun 2015}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite web |first=Cory |last=Gunther |title=LG G4 Touchscreen Problems Fixed in New Update |url=https://www.gottabemobile.com/lg-g4-touchscreen-problems-fixed-in-new-update/ |website=Gotta Be Mobile |date=25 Nov 2015 |access-date=11 Jul 2025 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170305201051/https://www.gottabemobile.com/lg-g4-touchscreen-problems-fixed-in-new-update/ |archive-date=5 Mar 2017}}</ref>

===Boot looping===
From around September 2015, users reported an issue with the device where it would continuously cycle between booting and restarting, rendering it inoperable (known as a "{{Wplink|Booting#Bootloop|boot loop}}").<ref>{{Cite web |first=Andrew |last=Williams |title=LG G4 Bootloop Problem: Global Software Upgrade Centre the final fix? |url=https://www.trustedreviews.com/opinion/lg-g4-bootloop-problem-how-to-diagnose-and-fix-2946272 |website=Trusted Reviews |date=12 Apr 2018 |access-date=11 Jul 2025 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180604022107/https://www.trustedreviews.com:80/opinion/lg-g4-bootloop-problem-how-to-diagnose-and-fix-2946272 |archive-date=4 Jun 2018}}</ref> Initially appearing to affect only a small number of devices, the issue quickly spread, and by the end of 2015, it was apparent that it could afflict almost any model.

Users either complained that the devices were not receiving appropriate repairs or called on LG to acknowledge a major fault with the devices. In some cases, users launched online petitions calling on LG to address their concerns.<ref>{{Cite web |first=Santiago |last=Archila |title=Launch a replacement program for defective LG G4s |url=https://www.change.org/p/lg-mobile-launch-a-replacement-program-for-defective-lg-g4s |website=change.org |date=2016 |access-date=11 Jul 2025 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161016135326/https://www.change.org/p/lg-mobile-launch-a-replacement-program-for-defective-lg-g4s |archive-date=16 Oct 2016}}</ref>

In January 2016, LG acknowledged the hardware issue causing the boot loop and announced that they would repair or replace affected devices.<ref>{{Cite web |first=Kris |last=Carlon |title=LG admits G4 bootloop problem is a hardware fault, will repair affected devices |url=https://www.androidauthority.com/lg-admits-g4-bootloop-problem-hardware-fault-669603/ |website=Android Authority |date=26 Jan 2016 |access-date=11 Jul 2025 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160127084809/https://www.androidauthority.com/lg-admits-g4-bootloop-problem-hardware-fault-669603/ |archive-date=27 Jan 2016}}</ref> LG did not offer assistance with data recovery from affected devices.

It was identified that the fault was caused by detached solder joints between components, resulting in the loss of user data and complete interoperability issues with the affected devices.

===Other issues===
Other problems included:

*Charging port death{{Citation needed}}
*Speaker function damage{{Citation needed}}
*Touchscreen not turning on with tap-to-wake, random LED-blinking notifications despite no new messages, and keyboard glitches, among other issues.<ref name=":0" />

==Class-action lawsuit==
LG settled one class-action lawsuit in the USA related to boot-loop issues, offering affected device owners either $425 in cash or $700 in store credit toward an alternative LG device.<ref>{{Cite web |first=Chaim |last=Gartenberg |title=LG settles bootloop lawsuit with $425 in cash or a $700 rebate toward a new LG phone
|url=https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2018/1/31/16957332/lg-bootloop-lawsuit-settlement-g4-v10-v20-nexus-5x-g5 |website=The Verge |date=31 Jan 2018 |access-date=11 Jul 2025 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180201022442/https://www.theverge.com/circuitbreaker/2018/1/31/16957332/lg-bootloop-lawsuit-settlement-g4-v10-v20-nexus-5x-g5 |archive-date=1 Feb 2018}}</ref>

==References==
{{Reflist}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:LG G4}}
[[Category:LG]]
[[Category:LG G4 phone]]

Enshittification

2026-04-01T12:44:06Z

ClippyFellow47: Minor grammar edits to improve tone. Will continue to edit at a later time.

{{Incomplete|Issue 1=Some sections are lacking adequate source population or quality|Issue 2=Some sections are far too brief, or aren't even written|Issue 3=Lack of depth; there's not enough links of data that connects each stage together, not to mention real-world examples of companies going through the full process.}}{{ToneWarning}}

'''Platform decay''', commonly known as '''[[wikipedia:Enshittification|Enshittification]]''' or '''crapification''', is a practice in which companies (usually large ones) allow the quality of the products or services they provide to decline over time.

The term was first coined by tech blogger [[wikipedia:Cory Doctorow|Cory Doctorow]] in November 2022<ref>{{Cite web |last=Doctorow |first=Cory |date=28 Nov 2022 |title=Pluralistic: How monopoly enshittified Amazon/28 Nov 2022 |url=https://pluralistic.net/2022/11/28/enshittification/ |url-status=live |access-date=18 Aug 2025 |website=Pluralistic |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260216121528/https://pluralistic.net/2022/11/28/enshittification/ |archive-date=16 Feb 2026}}</ref>, popularized by Arun Maini (Mrwhosetheboss)<ref>[https://www.uniladtech.com/news/tech-news/mrwhosetheboss-explains-google-search-broken-715030-20241030 Popular tech YouTuber exposes why 'broken' Google Search is falling apart] ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251117215634/https://www.uniladtech.com/news/tech-news/mrwhosetheboss-explains-google-search-broken-715030-20241030 Archived])</ref><ref>The Internet is starting to Break - Here's Why. - Mrwhosetheboss</ref><ref>Why Google Search is Falling Apart. - Mrwhosetheboss</ref>, and has since gained widespread recognition.<ref>{{Cite web |title=enshittification |url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/slang/enshittification |url-status=live |access-date=18 Aug 2025 |website=Merriam-Webster |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260222030743/https://www.merriam-webster.com/slang/enshittification |archive-date=22 Feb 2026}}</ref>

==How it works==
The platform decay practice is done in three stages. Initially, the companies create high-quality products or service offerings, usually by offering users a product or service at a low price (or sometimes for free). This works as an easy way to attract users and consumers and undercut the competition. Later, the offerings and platform quality decline, often with subtle changes, worsening users' experience during a transition to prioritize business customer profits. At the end, they decline quality for both regular and business customers to prioritize shareholder profits.

Enshittification is also a common practice amongst large corporations that offer a monopoly product or service. When there's no significant competence, the enshittification may persist longer, as users may be unable to leave the platform because they're used to it or because they can't find similar alternatives that meet their needs.

These practices could also cause provider companies to incur irreparable reputational damage or even fall into bankruptcy in some cases.

<blockquote>''"It is a seemingly inevitable consequence arising from the combination of the ease of changing how a platform allocates value, combined with the nature of a "two-sided market," where a platform sits between buyers and sellers, holding each hostage to the other, raking off an ever-larger share of the value that passes between them."'' <ref>{{Cite web |last=Doctorow |first=Cory |date=23 Jan 2023 |title=The ‘Enshittification’ of TikTok |url=https://www.wired.com/story/tiktok-platforms-cory-doctorow/ |url-status=live |access-date=18 Aug 2025 |website=WIRED |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260120085207/https://www.wired.com/story/tiktok-platforms-cory-doctorow/ |archive-date=20 Jan 2026}}</ref></blockquote>- Cory Doctorow ''Wired,'' 2023

===Stage 1 - Incentivizing Mass Adoption===
Companies begin by offering a product or service that provides a high-quality experience or usage for users, while constantly listening to user feedback. Another common practice to attract users is to offer a low or affordable price for most consumers. They basically create something "too good" to be free or low-cost. This leads to a visible, well-known product or service that makes it easy to build communities and user bases.

A documented example of this phase is [[Uber]] aggressively using investor capital to fund massive subsidies, paying to acquire both drivers and passengers.<ref>{{Cite web |title=How Uber Disrupted An Industry With An Explosive Approach |url=https://www.cascade.app/studies/uber-strategy-study#:~:text=Uber%20combined%20that%20initial%20campaign,rider%20sides%20faster%20and%20easier. |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251112132833/https://www.cascade.app/studies/uber-strategy-study |archive-date=12 Nov 2025}}</ref> It was initially well-received for offering competitive transportation prices, leading to a large user base adopting the platform.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wolff |first=Micheal |date=22 Dec 2013 |title=Wolff: The tech company of the year is Uber |url=https://eu.usatoday.com/story/money/columnist/wolff/2013/12/22/the-success-of-app-based-car-service-uber/4141669/ |url-status=live |access-date=18 Aug 2025 |website=USA TODAY |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250414222632/https://eu.usatoday.com/story/money/columnist/wolff/2013/12/22/the-success-of-app-based-car-service-uber/4141669/ |archive-date=14 Apr 2025}}</ref>

===Stage 2 - Catering to Business Clients===
Once the communities and user bases are stable, companies begin offering and partnering with business customers, providing strong incentives. These partnerships and this new profit-making focus are responsible for eroding the user experience through tactics such as ads and sponsored content.

A documented example of this phase is seen in the case of [[Reddit]] removing free access to its API near the time of its Initial public offering (IPO).<ref name="TheVergeAnnouncement">{{Cite web |last=Shakir |first=Umar |date=April 18, 2023 |title=Reddit's upcoming API changes will make AI companies pony up |url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/4/18/23688463/reddit-developer-api-terms-change-monetization-ai |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230614020642/https://www.theverge.com/2023/4/18/23688463/reddit-developer-api-terms-change-monetization-ai |archive-date=June 14, 2023 |access-date=June 17, 2023 |work=[[The Verge]]}}</ref> Then, in 2024, Reddit struck a $60 million deal with [[Google]] to grant access to its user-generated content for AI training data.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Tong |first=Anna |last2=Wang |first2=Echo |last3=Coulter |first3=Martin |last4=Tong |first4=Anna |last5=Wang |first5=Echo |date=2024-02-22 |title=Exclusive: Reddit in AI content licensing deal with Google |url=https://www.reuters.com/technology/reddit-ai-content-licensing-deal-with-google-sources-say-2024-02-22/ |access-date=2025-06-20 |work=Reuters |language=en |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260112221447/https://www.reuters.com/technology/reddit-ai-content-licensing-deal-with-google-sources-say-2024-02-22/ |archive-date=12 Jan 2026}}</ref>

===Stage 3 - Quality Degradation for Shareholders===
When both users and business partners are locked in, the company shifts its surpluses to the shareholders. It no longer has any incentive to grow or maintain quality for either of its customer bases and relentlessly seeks profit at any rate for the shareholders. Companies at this stage also tend to have such a large market presence that switching barriers naturally (or intentionally) fall into place for those trying to leave for alternatives.

An ongoing example is [[YouTube]]'s [[YouTube#Crackdown against ad-blockers|crackdown on users using ad-blockers]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=YouTube intensifies crackdown on ad blockers {{!}} AdGuard |url=https://adguard.com/en/blog/youtube-new-banner-adblockers-violate-tos.html |access-date=2025-06-20 |website=AdGuard Blog |language=en}} ([http://web.archive.org/web/20251211160954/https://adguard.com/en/blog/youtube-new-banner-adblockers-violate-tos.html Archived])</ref> While such a crackdown might reduce [[Ad block|ad-blocker]] usage and increase short-term shareholder returns, it degrades the experience for users and reduces the quality of impressions for advertisers. Over 30% of the world's population uses YouTube, with a ~98% market share in online video media.<ref>{{Cite web |title=YouTube - Market Share, Competitor Insights in Media Players And Streaming Platforms |url=https://www.6sense.com/tech/media-players-and-streaming-platforms/youtube-market-share |access-date=2025-06-20 |website=6sense |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250429132430/https://6sense.com/tech/media-players-and-streaming-platforms/youtube-market-share |archive-date=29 Apr 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=23 Essential YouTube Statistics You Need to Know in 2025 |url=https://thesocialshepherd.com/blog/youtube-statistics |access-date=2025-06-20 |website=The Social Shepherd |language=en |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20260124141601/https://thesocialshepherd.com/blog/youtube-statistics |archive-date=24 Jan 2026}}</ref>

==Why it is a problem==

===Erosion of user experiences===
It can cause frustration among customers, for example [[Netflix]] has started locking down movies behind expensive plans, so customers are frustrated into subscribing to a more expensive plan.

Enshittification can also lead to [[wikipedia:Feature creep|feature creep]] - especially when new features of a product are intended to further lock in users and increase revenue. This creep can lead to an overall reduction in performance due to [[Bloatware|bloat]] and increased complexity, reducing a product's usability. A prime example of feature creep caused in large part by late-stage enshittification is [[Microsoft Windows]].

===Switching barriers===
Enshittified platforms that act as intermediaries can act as both a monopoly on services and a monopsony on customers, as high switching barriers prevent either from leaving even when better alternatives technically exist. These barriers can be intentionally put in place - such as restricting the user's ability to transfer data or communicate between platforms - or unintentional, such as a platform's userbase being so large that it naturally makes it near impossible for users or partners to find equivalent engagement on an alternative platform.

An example of this would be a long-time [[eBay]] seller hoping to leave the site for an alternative with lower fees (possibly Mercari or Etsy). They might first encounter issues migrating all of their listings over to the new platform; a process which could be tedious. Their feedback history will certainly not carry over to the new platform so buyers are initially less likely to view them as trustworthy, potentially impacting sales. Lastly, the alternative platform likely has a vastly smaller userbase than eBay so despite all the possible benefits - the seller is less likely to be successful on the new platform than they are on eBay.

Such switching barriers can create an adversarial relationship between platform users or business partners and the company they're dependent on. The users or partners cannot be successful without access to the wide reach of the platform - but it leaves them wholly dependent on a company that no longer has their best interests in mind.

===Platform death===
A potential end-scenario for enshittified platforms is death, usually caused by a large enough exodus of users and business partners, and a general loss of trust. A platform may not truly "die" per se, but it can completely lose the identity that made it successful in the first place - and might not ever regain it. An ongoing example is [[X Corp|Twitter]] post Elon Musk's takeover. Under its new ownership and branding, the platform drove away swathes of its userbase and advertisers to alternative platforms (such as [[Bluesky]]) after its policy shifts proved widely unpopular.

However, the death of an enshittified platform is not an entirely positive end result. It uproots a long established userbase and can greatly disrupt their activities. There is also the chance that alternative platforms lack of feature parities with the old platform or that it might not even be able to support the massive influx of new users - at least for some amount of time. At worst, data loss could be involved meaning years worth of information - if not archived beforehand - could potentially be lost if a platform shuts down in some capacity.

==Possible solutions==

===Legislations and movements===
...
===End-to-end principal===
...

===Right of exit===
{{see also|Click-to-cancel|Interoperability}}
The right of exit, or Data portability, is the right of a user to leave a platform without losing the data stored on it, and instead being able to export it and access it in various applications of the user's liking.<ref>{{Cite web |title=DataPortability Project |url=http://www.dataportability.org/ |url-status=unfit |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090723171111/http://www.dataportability.org/ |archive-date=23 Jul 2009 |access-date=18 Aug 2025 |website=DataPortability}}</ref>

==Common signals==
Products and services that are affected by enshittification usually apply these practices (that could be subtle at first) on their product or services:

*Modifications of [[terms of service]] or [[terms of use]] to include anti-consumer practices.
*[[Advertising overload]] to prioritize advertiser profits and encourage users to pay to disable (or limit) visible ads.
*[[Pay-walling]] or limiting functions or features, usually ones that used to be free at first. This can also end into [[monetization overload]]. In some cases, a function or feature might be completely removed.
*Integration of [[Bloatware]].
*Price gouging or [[Value based pricing|surge pricing]].
*In physical products, usage of lower-quality or durability materials to manufacture the products in order to minimize costs. In some cases, this practice is alongside with [[planned obsolescence]].
*In software, low-quality updates and features, with some cases involving in the usage of [[AI slop]].
*Provider companies ignoring user feedback that involves in reverting or removing features that reduce partnership or shareholder profitting.
*Difficulties or inabilities to remove a paying method or to cancel a subscription.

==Examples==
===E-commerce===
In Doctorow's original post, he discussed the practices of [[Amazon]]. The online retailer initially drew in users with products sold below cost and free shipping. Once its userbase was well established, more sellers began to sell their products through Amazon. Finally, Amazon began to add fees to increase profits. In 2023, over 45% of the sale price of items went to Amazon in the form of various fees. Amazon also allows sellers the ability to push their listing higher in search results via its paid Sponsored Products program. Doctorow described advertisement within Amazon as a payola scheme in which sellers bid against one another for search-ranking preference, and said that the first five pages of a search for "cat beds" were half advertisements

eBay is another e-commerce site that followed a similar trajectory, initially offering low fees and a robust buying/selling protection system. Once its userbase of largely secondhand buyers and sellers was solidified, eBay raised seller fees and began incentivizing large volume sellers - often actual businesses - with lower selling fees should they subscribe to eBay Store. eBay sellers are also no longer able to leave negative feedback for buyers, greatly reducing the ability of sellers to avoid bad actors. Since then, eBay has introduced promoted listings that are effectively analogous to Amazon's paid sponsored listing system. eBay has also encouraged sellers to use AI generated descriptions that often misrepresent the condition of items being sold, along with opting all of its users into in-house AI training [[Ebay AI opt in by default|by default]] as of its April 21, 2025 privacy policy revision.

===Media streaming platforms===
The enshittification of Netflix is similarly reflected in other competing streaming platforms such as YouTube TV and Amazon Prime Video, where prices have increased despite a decline (or at least no perceivable improvement) in overall service quality. Multiple providers have also downgraded their cheapest paid plans to now come bundled with ads.

===Search engines===
Google started as an ad-free search engine, but then it started to add sponsored links in the top of the searchs and making them less distinguishable between non-ad links. {{Citation needed}} In 2024, Google started rolling out AI Overview, an AI-generated summary that appears at the top of the search results. Due to the release was rushed and didn't have proper revisions, the AI Overview showed inaccurate and potentially dangerous overviews, such as encouraging eating rocks, suggesting putting glue on top of pizza as a solution to cheese sliding off, encouraging smoking during pregnancy, encouraging suicide and suggesting users to jump off the Golden Gate Bridge.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Goodwin |first=Danny |date=24 May 2024 |title=Google AI Overviews under fire for giving dangerous and wrong answers |url=https://searchengineland.com/google-ai-overview-fails-442575 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250623180113/https://searchengineland.com/google-ai-overview-fails-442575 |archive-date=23 Jun 2025 |access-date=21 Jul 2025 |work=Search Engine Land}}</ref> Google has responded to those issues and temporarily disabled the AI overview. While those incidents have been fixed and the AI Overview has been made available again, the AI overview still shows inaccurate results caused by hallucinations, biases and citing non-fiable sources, often citing satire comments as factual sources, or making stuff up. The AI overview has also been criticized for being considered as unwanted or unnecessary, for being environmentally harmful, privacy concerns and for reducing traffic towards genuine sites, encouraging people to rely on the overview instead of visiting sites to obtain the information they're looking for.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Perez |first=Sarah |date=15 Jul 2025 |title=Google Discover adds AI summaries, threatening publishers with further traffic declines |url=https://techcrunch.com/2025/07/15/google-discover-adds-ai-summaries-threatening-publishers-with-further-traffic-declines/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250718124612/https://techcrunch.com/2025/07/15/google-discover-adds-ai-summaries-threatening-publishers-with-further-traffic-declines/ |archive-date=18 Jul 2025 |access-date=21 Jul 2025 |work=TechCrunch}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Bellan |first=Rebecca |date=10 Jun 2025 |title=Google’s AI search features are killing traffic to publishers |url=https://techcrunch.com/2025/06/10/googles-ai-overviews-are-killing-traffic-for-publishers/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250714040741/https://techcrunch.com/2025/06/10/googles-ai-overviews-are-killing-traffic-for-publishers/ |archive-date=14 Jul 2025 |access-date=21 Jul 2025 |work=TechCrunch}}</ref>

===Social media===
'''[[Facebook]]:'''

Facebook has shifted from a network for personal connection to a platform dominated by advertising and algorithmic manipulation. User data is monetised at the expense of privacy, while the quality of organic content has steadily declined.

'''[[Instagram]]:'''

Once centred on creativity and social sharing, Instagram now prioritises sponsored posts, shopping features, and influencer marketing. Users’ ability to control their feeds has been reduced, reflecting the platform’s focus on profit over consumer experience.

'''[[Reddit]]:'''

Reddit’s 2023 API changes exemplify enshitification, undermining community tools and third-party apps in favour of advertising revenue. This has eroded user autonomy and restricted consumer choice.

'''[[X Corp|Twitter/X]]:'''

Following its acquisition and rebrand, Twitter/X introduced [[Pay-walling|paywalls]] for basic features, weakened its moderation and increased sponsored content. The result has ended into a degraded service and a diminished consumer experience.

'''[[TikTok]]:'''

TikTok’s powerful recommendation algorithm drives engagement but also funnels users into repetitive content while saturating feeds with advertising. Concerns over data exploitation further highlight the imbalance between corporate gain and consumer rights.

'''[[YouTube]]:'''

YouTube has expanded ad loads and aggressively promoted subscriptions, while algorithmic changes often disadvantage independent creators. Consumers face reduced choice and increased intrusion, hallmarks of enshitification.

'''[[Discord]]:'''

Discord's primary selling point is that it is the most-used method of online communication, especially for communities.{{Citation needed}} Because of this dominance, it has caused barriers for users intending to switch to alternative platforms such as Stoat or Matrix, as a lack of common users between platforms makes it difficult for more users to transfer over.{{Citation needed}} This fact has been abused by Discord with its infrastructure showing signs of decay,{{Citation needed}} the introduction of advertisements in the format of "quests",{{Citation needed}} and the degradation of free perks.{{Citation needed}}

===Software===
'''[[Adobe]]:'''

*Forced shift from perpetual licenses to subscriptions.
Beginning in 2013 with Creative Cloud, Adobe eliminated the option to purchase perpetual licenses for core products like Photoshop, Illustrator, and Premiere. Users must now maintain an ongoing subscription to access the software at all. Cancelling payments disables applications regardless of prior investment, dramatically increasing long-term costs and removing user ownership in favor of recurring subscriptions.
*Loss of access to files after subscription ends.
Many Adobe file formats (PSD, AI, INDD, AE project files) are proprietary and poorly supported by third-party software. When a subscription ends, users become unable to open, export, or meaningfully edit their own historical work, effectively holding user-created content hostage to enforce continued payment.
*Mandatory Creative Cloud account (see [[Forced account]]) and [[Digital rights management|DRM]] for offline tools.
Applications that run locally require frequent online authentication through the Creative Cloud desktop app. Forced sign-ins, background services, and periodic license checks can disable software unexpectedly, undermining reliability and making professional tools dependent on Adobe’s servers.
*[[Dark pattern|Dark patterns]] in subscription cancellation and pricing.
Adobe’s subscription plans use confusing billing structures (such as “annual plans billed monthly”) that impose early termination fees. Cancellation flows are deliberately complex, with obscured options and repeated retention prompts, resulting in users paying longer than intended or being penalized for leaving.

'''[[Microsoft Windows]]:'''

*Forced Microsoft account sign-in.
Beginning with Windows 10 and further enforced in Windows 11, Microsoft increasingly requires users to sign in with a Microsoft account during setup. This restricts offline use, obscures the option to create a local account, and facilitates expanded telemetry collection and ecosystem lock-in.
*Built-in advertising in a paid operating system.
Despite being a commercial software, Windows includes advertisements and promotional content in the Start Menu, lock screen, system notifications, and settings panels, used to promote Microsoft 365, OneDrive, Edge, and other services and other proprietary software. Even when users disable these features, they are frequently re-enabled after major updates.
*Dark patterns in bundled applications.
Microsoft applications repeatedly nudge users toward Microsoft-preferred choices. Edge persistently prompts users to become the default browser and displays warnings when switching away. OneDrive frames cloud uploads as “protecting your files,” obscuring the fact that local folders are being redirected to Microsoft’s servers. Subscription prompts often lack a clear “Never ask again” option, offering only choices such as “Try for free” or “Maybe later” as in Microsoft365.
*Increased unavoidable telemetry.
Telemetry and diagnostic data collection are enabled by default, with only limited controls available to disable or reduce them—particularly in non-Enterprise editions. Some data collection is mandatory and vaguely documented, undermining informed consent.
*Loss of user control over updates.
Windows updates cannot be permanently disabled through standard settings. Users can only defer updates for a limited period (up to four weeks), after which downloads and installations are often forced, sometimes causing unexpected restarts or re-enabling previously disabled features without user consent.
*Bundled software bloat.
Windows ships with numerous preinstalled Microsoft applications that are not essential to core OS functionality. These apps are installed without explicit user consent and may reappear after major updates even if previously removed.
*Degraded local search in favor of web search.
The start menu and file search experience has progressively gotten worse, blending local results with Bing web searches. This often prioritizes online content and advertisements over fast, predictable local file and application discovery, reducing usability in order to promote Microsoft’s search and advertising ecosystem.

===Video Games===
'''[[Unity Engine runtime fee|Unity]]:'''

Unity Software Inc. implemented sweeping changes to its pricing model for Unity that would affect all users of the engine, forcing users to either adopt their per-download fee or de-list their games.

'''Mobile Games:'''A lot of mobile games have fell into enshittifed experiences. A lot of mobile games were paid in the early days of the [[Apple App Store]], but then became [[Free to Play]] with users being bombarded with ads, [[Microtransactions|micro-transactions]], [[Battle passes|battle-passes]], energy-systems and more, to extract as much money out of the player's pocket, while making the experience less fun. The video game Angry-Birds is a good example of this. What started as a very simple game now has all of the aforementioned tactics baked into it, rendering the playing experience tedious and unpleasant.

===Learning Applications===
'''[[Duolingo]]:'''

...

{{See also|Network effects}}

==Further reading==

*https://pluralistic.net/2024/01/30/go-nuts-meine-kerle/#ich-bin-ein-bratapfel

==External links==

*[https://youtu.be/T4Upf_B9RLQ "A Day in the Life of an Ensh*ttificator"], by [https://www.youtube.com/@Forbrukerr%C3%A5detNorge Forbrukerrådet - Norwegian Consumer Council], 2026
*[https://youtu.be/NBZv0_MImIY "Y'all mind if I complain for 15 minutes?"], by [[wikipedia:Jaiden_Animations|Jaiden Dittfach]], 2025. In this video, she talks about how things have "become less efficient" and "more stupid".
*[https://eev.ee/blog/2025/07/03/the-rise-of-whatever/ "The rise of Whatever"]
*[https://gavinhoward.com/2023/11/your-loved-ones-are-prisoners-and-you-made-the-chain "Digital chains and modern feudalism"]

==References==
{{reflist}}

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

Bootloader unlocking

2026-04-01T12:37:51Z

ClippyFellow47: Grammar edits to improve tone.

{{Incomplete}}{{ToneWarning}}

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

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

'''Difference from Rooting'''

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

See [[Jailbreak]] for more info.

==Benefits of unlocked bootloaders==

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

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

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

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

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

===='''Updates after the manufacturer abandons the device'''====
Low-end devices usually receive only a few years or even months of security updates.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Android Update Matrix |url=https://www.androidupdatetracker.com/update-matrix |access-date=2025-08-23 |website=Android Update Tracker |url-status=live |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251206020040/https://www.androidupdatetracker.com/update-matrix |archive-date=6 Dec 2025}}</ref> Since most custom ROMs are built by the open-source community, installing one allows users to receive security updates for the Android system and default components, such as web browser engines and PDF readers, as long as custom ROMs are developed. Popular custom ROMs such as LineageOS and GrapheneOS have lasted over 10 years, and are open source, allowing anyone to maintain them and continue their development. <ref>{{Cite web |last=ciwrl |first= |date=2016-12-24 |title=A fork in the road |url=https://www.cyanogenmod.org/blog/a-fork-in-the-road |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161225091051/https://www.cyanogenmod.org/blog/a-fork-in-the-road |archive-date=2016-12-25 |access-date=2026-02-26 |website=Cyanogen Mod}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=26 Feb 2026 |title=History |url=https://grapheneos.org/history/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260225034058/https://grapheneos.org/history/ |archive-date=25 Feb 2026 |access-date=26 Feb 2026 |website=GrapheneOS}}</ref>

==='''Control'''===
Some applications cannot be easily removed in the default OS. A custom ROM gives users complete control over what is in their operating system, such as preinstalled apps and system themes. <ref>https://www.reddit.com/r/privacy/comments/k2320l/cant_delete_certain_apps_on_android_only_disable/ ([http://web.archive.org/web/20230615024140/https://old.reddit.com/r/privacy/comments/k2320l/cant_delete_certain_apps_on_android_only_disable/ Archived])</ref>{{Citation needed}}
==Why most bootloaders are locked==

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

==References==
<references />

[[Category:Common terms]]

Monopoly

2026-04-01T12:34:42Z

ClippyFellow47: Grammar edits to improve tone.

{{ToneWarning}}

A [[wikipedia:Monopoly|monopoly]] represents a market structure where a single seller or entity dominates the entire market for a particular good or service. This economic arrangement is characterized by a lack of viable substitute goods and the absence of economic competition. This allows the monopolist to potentially charge prices significantly above marginal cost while maintaining substantial monopoly profit.

In legal contexts, the concept of monopoly extends beyond pure single-firm markets to encompass situations in which market power is concentrated among a very few actors, such as duopolies and oligopolies.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=July 1, 2023 |title=monopoly |url=https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/monopoly |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20250918071518/https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/monopoly |archive-date=18 Sep 2025|website=www.law.cornell.edu }}</ref>

==Characteristics of monopolies==
Monopolistic market structures exhibit several defining features that distinguish them from other market forms. These characteristics create the conditions that allow monopolists to exercise market power and operate with limited competitive constraints:

{| class="wikitable" style="border-style: solid; border-width: 2px; text-align: center" cellpadding="4px"
|+Key characteristics of monopolies
|-
! scope="col" style="text-align: left" |Characteristic
!Description
! scope="col" style="text-align: right" |Implication
|-
! scope="col" style="text-align: left" |Single seller
|Sole provider of a product/service
| scope="col" style="text-align: right" |No competition
|-
! scope="col" style="text-align: left" |Price setting
|Ability to set prices above competitive levels
| scope="col" style="text-align: right" |Higher prices
|-
! scope="col" style="text-align: left" |Barriers to entry
|Obstacles like patents, high startup costs, or resource control
| scope="col" style="text-align: right" |Market dominance
|-
! scope="col" style="text-align: left" |No close substitutes
|Unique product offering
| scope="col" style="text-align: right" |Consumer dependency
|-
|}

===Single seller and numerous buyers===
A monopoly market consists of one single supplier facing many buyers. This eliminates the distinction between the firm and the industry; the monopolistic firm is the industry in which it operates. This single-seller status means that the monopolist's demand curve is identical to the market demand curve, which typically slopes downward, indicating that the monopolist must lower prices to increase sales volume.

===Absence of close substitutes===
The product or service offered by a monopolist has no close alternatives available to consumers. The cross-elasticity of demand between the monopolist's product and other products is very low, meaning consumers cannot easily switch to alternatives when prices increase. This lack of substitution possibilities strengthens the monopolist's market power.

===Barriers to entry===

*Economic: high startup costs and economies of scale.

*Legal: Patents, copyrights, or government licenses.

*Deliberate: Predatory pricing, control of essential resources.

These entry restrictions protect the monopolist from competitive pressures that would otherwise erode its market position.

:Monopolies arise and persist due to various factors that create barriers to entry, preventing or significantly impeding potential competitors from entering a market and challenging the dominant firm's position. These barriers can be categorized into several types:

====Economic barriers====
These represent structural market conditions that limit competition. The most significant barrier is economies of scale, which occur when a firm's average production costs decrease as output increases.

In industries with substantial fixed costs (such as utilities manufacturing), large established firms enjoy cost advantages that new entrants cannot match initially.

Other economic barriers include high capital requirements, technological superiority, and control over essential resources.

====Legal barriers====
The government created restrictions that limit market entry. These include intellectual property protections such as patents, copyrights, and trademarks, granting exclusive rights to produce, use, or sell inventions and creations for specified periods.<ref name=":0" /> While these protections aim to incentivize innovation, they simultaneously create temporary monopolies.

Other legal barriers include licensing requirements, mandatory government permission to operate in certain industries, permits, and regulations that disproportionately burden new market entrants compared to established firms. Governments may grant exclusive franchises to companies to provide specific services within certain geographical areas, creating legal monopolies.

====Deliberate barriers====
These result from strategic actions by established firms aimed at maintaining their monopoly position. These practices include predatory pricing, exclusive contracting, and vertical integration. Established firms may also engage in strategic patenting or lobbying for regulations that disadvantage potential entrants.

Some monopolists may create vendor lock-in situations by designing products that are incompatible with competitors' offerings, making it costly for consumers to switch to alternatives.

====Network effects====
These occur when a product or service becomes more valuable as more people use it. This creates a self-reinforcing advantage for established firms that have already accumulated a large user base.

Payment networks like Visa possess monopoly power partly because merchants and consumers prefer widely accepted payment systems.

Network effects can create natural monopolies in technology and platform-based markets where interoperability and standardization provide user benefits.

===Types of monopolies===
Monopolies can be categorized by their formation processes, underlying economic conditions, and their relationship to governmental authority.

*'''Natural'''
:Natural monopolies often arise in industries that require extensive infrastructure networks, such as utilities and transportation systems. The infrastructure for delivering electricity, gas, and water involves substantial initial investment costs, making duplication impractical. In such cases, having multiple competitors would result in inefficient duplication of resources and potentially higher prices for consumers rather than lower ones.[6]

*'''Legal'''
:Legal monopolies or government-granted monopolies are created through official government sanction via patents, copyrights, trademarks, and public franchises.<ref name=":0" /> These exclusive rights are granted to encourage innovation and investment in risky ventures by ensuring that inventors and creators can reap financial rewards from their efforts. Pharmaceutical companies receive patent protection that grants them a temporary monopoly over newly developed drugs, theoretically incentivizing substantial research and development investments. The U.S. Postal Service's exclusive right to deliver first-class mail represents another example of a legal monopoly.<ref name=":0" /><ref>{{Cite journal |last=Kobayashi |first=Bruce H. |date= |title=The Law and Economics of Intellectual Property |url= |journal=George Mason Law & Economics Research Paper |volume= |pages= |via=}}</ref>

*'''Technological'''
:A technological monopoly arises when a company controls a proprietary technology or production process that competitors cannot easily replicate. Patent laws often protect this type of monopoly, but can also stem from significant expertise advantages or trade secrets. Historical examples include Microsoft's dominance in personal computer operating systems during the 1990s, which was partly attributed to its control of the Windows platform. Contemporary technology firms like Google in search engines and Amazon in e-commerce have also been described as having technological monopolies due to their market-dominating positions.

*'''Government'''
:In a government monopoly, the state itself owns and operates the production and distribution of certain goods and services. This arrangement is common in sectors considered natural monopolies or essential public services, such as water provision, electricity distribution, and public transportation systems. Government monopolies may also extend to industries considered strategically important or sensitive, such as arms manufacturing or nuclear energy, in some countries. The justification for government monopolies typically centers on ensuring universal access, maintaining quality standards, and preventing private exploitation of essential services.

===Economic implication===
The economic effects of monopolies present a complex mix of potential drawbacks and benefits that economists have debated for decades. Understanding these implications requires examining both static efficiency considerations and dynamic innovation factors:[2]<ref>{{Cite web |last=Emerson |first=Patrick |date= |title=Intermediate Microeconomics |url=https://open.oregonstate.education/intermediatemicroeconomics/chapter/module-15/ |website=oregonstate.education |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251110012119/https://open.oregonstate.education/intermediatemicroeconomics/chapter/module-15/ |archive-date=10 Nov 2025}}</ref>

*'''Higher prices and reduced output'''
*:Competitive firms must accept market prices; monopolists can restrict output and charge higher prices than would prevail in competitive markets. By producing where marginal revenue equals marginal cost (rather than where price equals marginal cost, as in perfect competition), monopolists produce less output while maintaining higher prices, resulting in reduced consumer surplus. This behavior leads to allocative inefficiency, in which resources are not distributed to maximize social welfare.

*'''Reduced consumer choice'''
*:Monopoly markets typically offer fewer product varieties than competitive markets. With no competitive pressure to innovate or differentiate, monopolists may have little incentive to provide diverse options that cater to varied consumer preferences. This limitation of choice represents a reduction in consumer welfare that extends beyond price considerations alone.

*'''Potential for quality degradation'''
*:The absence of competitive pressure may reduce monopolists' incentives to maintain and improve product quality. Without rivals threatening to capture market share by offering superior products, monopolists might allow quality to deteriorate as a cost-saving measure, particularly if consumers have no alternative sources for the product or service.

*'''Rent-seeking behavior'''
*:Monopolists may engage in rent-seeking activities. Investing resources to maintain their monopoly position rather than to improve products or efficiency. This behavior represents a social waste because these resources could have been productively employed elsewhere in the economy. Rent-seeking often takes the form of lobbying for protective regulations or pursuing litigation against potential competitors.

*'''Income distribution effects'''
*:Monopoly profits often represent a transfer of wealth from consumers to shareholders who tend to be wealthier on average, potentially exacerbating income inequality. This redistribution occurs through the monopoly premium embedded in prices that exceeds what would be charged in competitive markets.

====Potential benefits====
*'''Economies of scale and lower costs'''
*:In industries with high fixed costs, monopolists may achieve lower average production costs through scale economies that could, in theory, be passed on to consumers. Natural monopolies, in particular, might offer lower prices than competitive markets could sustain because competition would require duplicating expensive infrastructure. This argument is frequently advanced in utilities and network industries, where infrastructure costs account for a substantial share of total costs.

*'''Innovation and research development'''
*:The prospect of achieving monopoly profits can provide powerful incentives for innovation and research development. The patent system explicitly recognizes this dynamic by granting temporary monopolies to inventors. Some economists argue that without the possibility of monopoly rewards, firms would underinvest in research and development because they would have difficulty appropriating the full benefits of their innovations. This perspective suggests that certain monopoly profits represent a legitimate return on innovation risk.

*'''Standardization and stability'''
*:Monopolies can sometimes provide market stability and standardization benefits that competitive markets might not achieve as efficiently. For instance, a single dominant technology platform might create compatibility benefits that fragmented markets cannot match. Microsoft argued during its antitrust case that its integrated approach provided consumer benefits through standardization.

*'''Cross-subsidization possibilities'''
*:Monopolists with multiple product lines or customer segments may engage in cross-subsidization'', using profits from one area to support services that might not be economically viable in competitive markets. This practice can sometimes serve social objectives, such as maintaining service to unprofitable rural customers while providing urban services.''

==Notable monopolies==
Historical and modern examples of monopolies provide valuable insights into the formation, behavior, and regulation of dominant firms across different industries and time periods.

===Standard Oil===
Founded by John D. Rockefeller in 1870, it is one of the most famous historical monopolies. Standard Oil achieved control over approximately 90% of oil refining in the United States by the early 1880s. Its dominance led to the passage of the Sherman Antitrust Act in 1890 and, ultimately, to its breakup into 34 separate companies in 1911 following a Supreme Court ruling. The Standard Oil case established important precedents for antitrust enforcement and demonstrated how monopolies could emerge through both efficiency advantages and anti-competitive practices.<ref>{{Cite web |title=The Founding of U.S. Steel and the Power of Public Opinion |url=https://www.library.hbs.edu/us-steel/exhibition/the-founding-of-u.s.-steel-and-the-power-of-public-opinion |archive-date=8 Oct 2025|archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251008182743/https://www.library.hbs.edu/us-steel/exhibition/the-founding-of-u.s.-steel-and-the-power-of-public-opinion |website=www.library.hbs.edu }}</ref> <ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date= |title=Broken Trust |url=https://archivesfoundation.org/newsletter/broken-trust/ |website=National Archives Foundation |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20251227134043/https://archivesfoundation.org/newsletter/broken-trust/ |archive-date=27 Dec 2025}}</ref>

===AT&T===
AT&T (American Telephone and Telegraph Company) maintained a monopoly on telephone service in the United States for much of the 20th century. Originally based on Bell's patent for the telephone, AT&T's monopoly persisted through control of critical infrastructure and regulatory capture. The company was considered a natural monopoly due to the extensive infrastructure requirements of telephone networks. By the 1970s, AT&T faced antitrust litigation that culminated in its 1984 breakup into seven regional "Baby Bell" companies. The AT&T case illustrates how technological change can eventually undermine natural monopoly arguments, as emerging technologies made telecommunications competition feasible.

===Microsoft corporation===

[[Microsoft]] faced significant antitrust scrutiny in the late 1990s over its dominance of personal computer operating systems and web browsers. The U.S. Department of Justice alleged that Microsoft maintained monopoly power in PC operating systems and used that power to unlawfully tie its Internet Explorer web browser to Windows, thereby disadvantaging competitors such as Netscape Navigator.

In 2000, a court ordered Microsoft to be split into two separate companies, one for operating systems and one for software applications, though this penalty was ultimately overturned on appeal. They instead reached a settlement with the DOJ that imposed behavioral restrictions but preserved the company's structural integrity. This case highlighted how technology companies could achieve monopoly power through network effects and platform control rather than traditional barriers to entry.

===Contemporary tech monopolies===
Major technology companies, including Google, Amazon, Facebook (Meta), and Apple, have faced accusations of monopolistic behavior. Google has been subject to multiple antitrust lawsuits alleging it illegally maintained monopolies in search engines and digital advertising through exclusionary practices. Amazon faces scrutiny over its dual role as both a marketplace operator and a competitor to third-party sellers on its platform. Facebook's acquisition strategy (including purchases of Instagram and WhatsApp) has drawn regulatory challenges aimed at preventing the entrenchment of monopoly power. These cases represent ongoing debates over how to apply traditional antitrust frameworks to digital platforms whose business models differ substantially from those of industrial-era monopolies.

==Government regulation of monopolies==
Governments employ various regulatory approaches to address monopoly power, balancing concerns about economic efficiency with other public policy objectives. These regulatory frameworks have evolved to address changing market conditions and economic understandings:

===Antitrust laws===
The United States has developed a comprehensive framework of antitrust legislation designed to prevent anti-competitive practices and protect consumer welfare. The cornerstone of U.S. antitrust law is the Sherman Act of 1890, which prohibits contracts, combinations, and conspiracies that unreasonably restrain trade and bans attempts to monopolize.

The Clayton Act of 1914 supplements the Sherman Act by addressing specific practices such as price discrimination, exclusive dealing arrangements, and mergers that substantially lessen competition.

These laws are enforced primarily by the DOJ and the FTC, which investigate potential violations and can pursue legal action against offending companies.

===Regulatory approaches===
*'''Price regulation'''
*:For natural monopolies (particularly utilities), regulators often implement price controls to prevent monopolistic pricing while allowing firms to earn a fair return on investment.<ref name=":0" /> Common approaches include rate-of-return regulation (limiting profits to a specified percentage of capital investment) and price-cap regulation (capping annual price increases using formulas that account for inflation and expected productivity gains).

*'''Merger review'''
*:Regulatory agencies evaluate proposed mergers and acquisitions to prevent excessive market concentration. The FTC and DOJ require companies to notify them of large transactions before completion and can challenge deals that would substantially reduce competition. For example, in 2024, judges blocked the proposed merger between Kroger and Albertson's grocery chains due to concerns about reduced competition in local markets.

*'''Structural remedies'''
*:Regulators may impose structural remedies such as requiring monopolists to divest certain assets or business units to restore competition. The breakup of Standard Oil in 1911 and AT&T in 1984 represent historical examples of structural approaches to monopoly power.

*'''Behavioral remedies'''
*:Regulators may impose behavioral restrictions on how firms conduct business. The settlement in the Microsoft case required the company to share application programming interfaces with third-party developers and refrain from retaliating against computer manufacturers that used competing software.

====International perspectives====
Antitrust approaches vary across countries, though convergence has increased with globalization. The European Union has generally taken a more aggressive stance toward technology monopolies than the United States, imposing substantial fines on companies like Google for anti-competitive practices. Many countries have established sector-specific regulators for industries like telecommunications, energy, and transportation, where monopoly concerns are particularly pronounced. International coordination on antitrust enforcement has grown as markets become increasingly global, though significant differences in legal frameworks and enforcement priorities remain across jurisdictions.

===Digital platform monopolies===
The rise of digital platforms has challenged traditional antitrust frameworks, as companies like Google, Amazon, and Facebook achieve dominance through network effects, data control, and platform ecosystems rather than conventional market concentration. These firms often provide "free" services to consumers while monetizing attention and data, complicating traditional market definition and power assessment in antitrust analysis. Some economists argue that digital markets tend toward natural monopoly characteristics due to strong network effects and low marginal costs, potentially requiring new regulatory approaches.

===The innovation trade-off===
A persistent debate concerns whether monopoly power inhibits or promotes innovation. The traditional view holds that competition spurs innovation while monopoly stagnates it. Some economists argue that the prospect of achieving temporary monopoly profits provides crucial incentives for innovation that competitive markets cannot match. This perspective suggests that certain forms of monopoly power might be desirable when they result from and reward innovative activity, particularly in industries with high research and development costs, such as pharmaceuticals.

===Consumer welfare standard===
Antitrust enforcement in recent decades has predominantly focused on the consumer welfare standard, which prioritizes price effects above other considerations.

Some critics argue this approach has been too permissive of increased market concentration, advocating broader considerations, including worker welfare, small-business impacts, and political democracy.

----

<references />

Digital Millennium Copyright Act

2026-04-01T12:28:53Z

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{{StubNotice}}

The '''[[wikipedia:Digital_Millennium_Copyright_Act|Digital Millennium Copyright Act]]''' (DMCA) is a copyright law passed in 1998 to amend Title 17 of the United States Code.<ref>{{Cite web |date=1998-10-28 |title=Digital Millennium Copyright Act |url=https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/PLAW-105publ304/pdf/PLAW-105publ304.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260125064622/https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/PLAW-105publ304/pdf/PLAW-105publ304.pdf |archive-date=2026-01-25 |access-date=2026-02-03 |website=GovInfo}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=1998-10-08 |title=H.R.2281 - Digital Millennium Copyright Act |url=https://www.congress.gov/bill/105th-congress/house-bill/2281 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260201003346/https://www.congress.gov/bill/105th-congress/house-bill/2281 |archive-date=2026-02-01 |access-date=2026-02-03 |website=Congress.gov}}</ref> Among its provisions are criminalizing the production and dissemination of information intended to circumvent copy protections

that protect intellectual property, such as those considered digital rights management. It was later amended in 1998 to shield ISPs that consumers may use to access such information from liability.

The law also provides that the Library of Congress issue exemptions from the prohibition when it is shown that access-control technology has had a substantial adverse effect on the ability of people to make non-infringing uses of copyrighted works. These exemptions are not granted in perpetuity. They are revised every 3 years, and existing exemptions must be resubmitted for the next rulemaking cycle, along with any new ones.

This law is one of the earliest to address the digital multimedia era, in which earlier laws were deemed insufficient given the technology of the time (even though their effects cover all digital information). Although the law is meant to supplement intellectual property rights, there are concerns that it conflicts with consumers' interests. This is due to the specific text of the law, as well as to its interpretation being used to attack consumer activity that would otherwise be permitted. Concerns over Right to Repair, Fair Use, and an overall lack of valid paths to refute or redress accusations of violating the law remain.

==Section 1201==
{{main|DMCA Section 1201}}
===Anti-Circumvention rule===
The DMCA prohibits breaking any digital lock that "effectively controls access" to a copyrighted material.<ref name=":0" /> Initially created to prevent internet piracy, critics have been apt to point out how corporations have abused this legal restriction. Cory Doctorow argues that the rule prevents competition and "the creation of legitimate, otherwise legal technologies."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Doctorow |first=Cory |date=2015-12-01 |title=I Can’t Let You Do That, Dave |url=https://cacm.acm.org/opinion/i-cant-let-you-do-that-dave/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250911054401/https://cacm.acm.org/opinion/i-cant-let-you-do-that-dave/ |archive-date=2025-09-11 |access-date=2026-02-03 |website=Communications of the ACM}}</ref>

==References==
<references />
[[Category:Common terms]]
[[Category:Legislation]]
[[Category:US legislation]]

Discontinuation bricking

2025-12-26T18:39:13Z

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{{StubNotice}}{{ToneWarning}}
'''Discontinuation bricking''' occurs when a product is rendered non-functional ("bricked") because the manufacturer has decided to discontinue it. Discontinuation bricking usually occurs in products that require a connection to a remote server hosted by the producer. The product may become bricked if the company decides to shut down services or goes out of business entirely, without allowing the consumer to substitute those services with alternative and/or [[self-hosted]] solutions. End-of-life for a product does not require the product to be bricked.

{| class="wikitable" style="margin: auto;"
|+End-of-Life compared to bricking
!
!EOL
!Soft brick
!Discontinuation bricking
|-
|Device boots
|Yes
|Yes
|Sometimes
|-
|Basic functionality
|Yes
|Sometimes
|No
|-
|Software updates
|Sometimes
|No
|No
|}
==Impact on consumer rights==
Discontinuation bricking, similar to [[planned obsolescence]], harms the consumer by making a product they paid for eventually stop functioning, resulting in loss of ownership of the product as its functionality is stripped away.

===Dependence on third-party bypasses===
After a product has been bricked, a consumer may wish to repair their product and return it to a functioning state. De-bricking a product is not impossible, but it can be difficult depending on the severity of the problem. Consumers will inevitably look to third parties for methods to bypass the bricking, which may expose them to [[security]] and safety risks. Bypasses may end up being expensive, with more complicated, server-dependent products requiring potentially complex server infrastructure.

===Resale falsification===
Products are often resold on the internet and may be put on sale before discontinuation, leading to the occurrence of valid information that becomes invalidated afterwards, causing [[false advertising]]. This has many implications:

#Sellers may be utterly unaware of the discontinuation, resulting in their product becoming bricked, and they will continue to sell it, potentially harming their reputation once the product becomes bricked and non-functional.
#Buyers may be unaware of the discontinuation and purchase the product, only to find it does not function, potentially causing harm to them.
#Customers may learn about the discontinuation and decide to sell the product without providing adequate details, even without any malicious intent.

==Environmental impact==
Discontinuation bricking will generate e-waste, as the product will no longer be functional, and consumers will be forced to discard it.

==Warning signs of discontinuation bricking==
Discontinuation bricking typically occurs when a remote service that the product relies on for complete functionality is shut down. The risk of discontinuation bricking occurring can be assessed beforehand by observing warning signs, such as:

*'''Product requires an internet connection to a remote server:''' If a product requires a connection to a remote server for functionality, there is a risk that the company may shut down the server, rendering some, if not all, functions of the product inoperable. These connections may be necessary because:

*'''Product requires remote authorization:''' The Product only works if you can receive approval from an authorization server. If the authorization server shuts down, logins will become impossible. An unusual example is the [[Spotify Car Thing]] , which stopped functioning after [[Spotify]] unauthorized the Car Thing from interacting with the Spotify App API.

*'''The product has features that depend on remote sources:''' If the product is unable to access remote information due to server outages, it may become bricked.

*'''The product relies on a phone application to work:''' Updates to the app may remove support for the discontinued product. An example being the Spotify Car Thing, which stopped functioning after Spotify unauthorized the Car Thing from interacting with the Spotify App API.<ref>{{cite web
|first=Alexander |last=Stoklosa |title=Spotify's Oddball In-Car Music Device Is Getting Bricked. Turns Out There's an App For That. |url=https://www.motortrend.com/news/spotify-car-thing-music-streaming-device-discontinued/ |website=Motor Trend |date=24 May 2024 |access-date=8 Jul 2025 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240525231014/https://www.motortrend.com/news/spotify-car-thing-music-streaming-device-discontinued/ |archive-date=25 May 2024}}</ref>

*'''The product requires regular physical input:''' For example, [[HP Inc.]] printer ink has a [[Digital rights management|DRM]] mechanism that forces consumers to use HP ink exclusively and does not allow third-party cartridges. If HP goes out of business or decides to stop producing its ink cartridges, any printer dependent on it will become bricked, effectively discontinuing the printer, even if not explicitly stated.

==Further reading==
*[[Spotify Car Thing]]
*[[Sonos]]
*[[Telstra|Telstra TV (Roku-Powered Streaming Devices)]]

*[[Planned obsolescence]]
*[[End of life product|EOL - end-of-life product]]
*[[Stop Killing Games]]
*[[List of products bricked by discontinuation]]

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:Anti-consumer practices]]
[[Category:Common terms]]
[[Category:Articles in need of additional work]]

Square Reader

2025-12-22T12:47:53Z

ClippyFellow47: Minor grammar edits to improve tone.

{{ToneWarning}}
{{Stub}}

{{ProductCargo
|Company=square
|ReleaseYear=2023
|InProduction=Yes
|ArticleType=Product
|Logo=Reader Contactless.png
|Website=https://www.squareup.com
|Description=This reader has a non-serviceable battery and can brick itself if opened to prevent modification to the hardware
}}The Square Reader for Contactless and Chip is an essential piece of hardware for millions of vendors. It's a lifeline for mobile businesses, pop-up shops, and independent contractors. Yet, like so much of today's consumer electronics, its lifespan is artificially capped by its power source. Once the non-user-replaceable lithium-ion battery inevitably degrades—a common complaint cited in community forums, often occurring within a few years—the merchant is left with a useless, approximately $50 plastic brick.

The device itself is likely still fully functional. The chip reader is intact, the NFC coil functions properly, and the plastic casing is in good condition. Only the battery, the single most disposable component in modern tech, has failed.

Square's official solution? Submit a warranty claim for a replacement. While helpful within the one-year limited warranty period, this policy completely abandons the user—and the planet—when the warranty expires. The company's hardware team, in an apparent acknowledgment of the device's design, reportedly advises that attempting to break open the reader to change the battery would trigger its security features and deactivate the device. The message is clear: buy a new one.

==Consumer-impact summary==
==Incidents==

==See also==

==References==
https://community.squareup.com/t5/Payments-Troubleshooting/Square-terminal-battery/m-p/728507
[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]

Forced indemnification

2025-12-14T19:19:09Z

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{{Incomplete|Issue 1=Needs inline citations}}
{{ToneWarning}}

'''Forced indemnification''' is a practice in which a business, such as a bank, refuses to take an action, such as transferring funds, unless and until its customer signs a document that includes an indemnification statement. Typically, an indemnification statement will broadly indemnify the business against, for example, any loss, claim, damage, liability, and expense (including legal costs and expenses) resulting from any claim against the business that arises from the business acting pursuant to the customer's direction.

==How it works==
The process is simply that the business sends the customer a form that they must sign prior to receiving the service that they are obligated to undertake. For example, the CIBC Bank (one of the central Canadian banks) has a form called "Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) Letter of Direction and Indemnity Upon Death of Holder". When their client passes away, they request that the client's beneficiaries sign this form. If a beneficiary refuses to sign the form, the bank will not distribute the client's funds to the beneficiary.

The indemnification clause is generally broad in scope. In the case of the aforementioned CIBC form, is says that the beneficiary, "...agrees to save harmless CIBC from and against any claims, demands, actions, suits, losses, charges, expenses, damages or liabilities whatsoever which CIBC may pay, sustain, suffer or incur by reason of or in connection with the payment of proceeds of the TFSA to the Indemnifier or as the Indemnifier may direct (“Liabilities”), other than Liabilities that arise directly or indirectly from gross negligence or fraud, or in Quebec, intentional or gross fault, of CIBC. It is also understood and agreed that this Indemnity shall ensure to the benefit of and be binding upon the Indemnifier and CIBC and their respective heirs, executors and successors."

==Why is it a problem==
This practice is a form of ''waiver of rights under duress'', where the bank, holding both the deceased client’s funds and a position of power, pressures the beneficiary into relinquishing legal protections they are otherwise entitled to. The bank often presents this waiver as a routine formality, exploiting the beneficiary’s lack of legal knowledge and emotional vulnerability. However, the form is not merely a routine administrative document—it is, in effect, a ''legally coercive instrument''. While it may appear harmless or procedural, its proper function is to pressure beneficiaries into surrendering rights they would otherwise retain under the law, often without a complete understanding of the consequences. This places an unfair burden on individuals at a vulnerable moment, effectively using the form as a tool of leverage rather than a means of transparency.

This benefits the bank by limiting its liability, avoiding regulatory scrutiny, and speeding up the transfer of funds without fulfilling certain legal obligations—such as proper verification, notice requirements, or fiduciary duties. Meanwhile, the consumer is harmed by unknowingly surrendering essential rights, such as the ability to contest the handling of the estate, claim interest on delayed disbursements, or hold the bank accountable for mishandling or negligence.

The problem is asymmetrical in nature because it takes minimal effort for the bank to add the extra legalese into their form and minimal effort to refuse to transfer the funds. The beneficiary, on the other hand, would need to hire a lawyer and possibly take legal action to compel the bank to release the funds—an option that is often impractical due to the associated costs and stress. To prevent this, customers should ask prospective banks whether they require beneficiaries to sign indemnity or waiver forms in the event of death. If a beneficiary is pressured into signing such a document, they can file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau or the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, both of which provide free and accessible avenues for recourse.

==Examples==
Another example of an indemnification clause from Scotia Wealth Management states,
<blockquote>"NOW THEREFORE, THIS LETTER OF INDEMNITY WITNESSETH that the Undersigned hereby covenants and agrees that the Undersigned will, from time to time and at all times hereafter, indemnify and keep indemnified Scotia McLeod of, and from and against all actions, suits, claims, costs (including legal cost) and demands which are now or may at any time or times hereafter made, brought or claimed against Scotia McLeod in respect of payment by Scotia McLeod to the Undersigned of the proceeds of the above mentioned RRSP/RRIF/TFSA and of and from any loss, charges and expenses which Scotia McLeod may sustain or be put to in respect thereof. THIS LETTER OF INDEMNITY shall be binding on the Undersigned and on the heirs and assigns of the Undersigned."</blockquote>

==References==

[[Category:Common terms]]

Bootloader unlocking

2025-12-13T22:24:44Z

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{{Incomplete}}{{ToneWarning}}

The bootloader is the core layer of a computerized device that connects the software to the physical hardware. In smartphones, the bootloader allows the mobile device to start up with an operating system such as iOS for iPhones and Android for most other smartphones. Bootloaders are typically established by the manufacturer and shipped to retailers and consumers in a "locked" state, thereby tying the hardware to a specific operating system chosen by the manufacturer. To [[wikipedia:Bootloader_unlocking|unlock a bootloader]] is to disconnect the physical device from a particular operating system, allowing users more control over their purchased smartphones. This is especially relevant for users who wish to de-Google their Android devices, which involves removing Google products and services for privacy, flexibility, and other concerns.

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

'''Difference from Rooting'''

Rooting grants runtime privileges, that is, while the OS is running.
BL unlock allows rewriting the storage drive where the OS is installed, but only while the OS is not running.
BL unlock enables the user to get root access, either:
*Manually, if the user knows what to do
*Automatically, by using a program

See [[Jailbreak]] for more info.

==Benefits of unlocked bootloaders==

==='''1. Better Privacy'''===
Most custom ROMs do not contain any components that send data to manufacturers, Google, or their partner companies.<ref name=":0" /> In some cases, they even contain components that prevent individual apps from doing so, such as:

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

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

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

==='''2. Expanding Device Lifespan'''===
Most custom ROMs are free of bloatware and can thus be used to extend the longevity of phones that have become unusable due to the default system growing larger with each manufacturer update. Especially on low-end phones, these updates often exhaust the built-in storage after as little as two years. This renders the devices slow and unstable, leaving no room for user data. Custom ROMs are typically much smaller than the manufacturer's software. Consequently, many old phones can run even faster with a custom ROM than they did when new, thus often more than doubling their useful lifespan.<ref>{{Cite web |title=By how much do custom roms really extend Phone lifespans? |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/AndroidQuestions/comments/gdq2rc/comment/fpj11ay/ |access-date=2025-08-23 |website=Reddit}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-03-10 |title=Xiaomi Redmi 8a - olivelite with Dual Sim |url=https://community.e.foundation/t/xiaomi-redmi-8a-olivelite-with-dual-sim/29192/12 |url-status=live |access-date=2025-08-23 |website=/e/OS Community}}</ref>
==='''3. Updates after the manufacturer abandons the device'''===
Low-end devices usually receive only a few years or even months of security updates.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Android Update Matrix |url=https://www.androidupdatetracker.com/update-matrix |access-date=2025-08-23 |website=Android Update Tracker}}</ref> Since most custom ROMs are built by the open-source community, installing one of these custom ROMs allows users to receive security updates for the Android system and default components, such as web browser engines and PDF readers, for a significantly longer period than with the manufacturer's OS.

==='''4. Customization'''===
Some applications cannot be removed easily with the default OS. A custom ROM can be used only to include the applications the user wants, potentially with customization options that aren't initially available by default.

==Why are most devices are locked==

===Security===
A locked bootloader protects the device from what is often called an [[wikipedia:Evil_maid_attack|Evil Maid Attack]]. This attack occurs when a person with physical access to a device can manipulate the operating system, typically when the device is left unattended or when handed over for inspection by authorities, such as customs, upon entering a country.

A locked bootloader ensures that the operating system remains intact and cannot be altered to deviate from the state in which the manufacturer released it.

===DRM and ecosystem control===
Some devices hold DRM keys, which are deleted when the bootloader is unlocked. Other devices go so far as to wipe proprietary drivers.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Sony wipes TA/ partition |url=https://github.com/melontini/bootloader-unlock-wall-of-shame/blob/4ca762b08e77034db2a5ceb78703ac4789349ed0/brands/sony/README.md?plain=1#L23 |url-status=live |website=GitHub}}</ref>

===Locks from mobile carriers===
Some mobile carriers have completely restricted the unlocking of bootloaders on specific models of cellphones that they sell.

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

Apple has measures in place to prevent users from installing third-party operating systems on iPhones and iPads.

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

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

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

==References==
<references />

[[Category:Common terms]]

Monetization overload

2025-12-13T22:19:03Z

ClippyFellow47: Major grammar edits to improve tone.

{{Incomplete}}{{ToneWarning}}'''Monetization overload''', or '''over-monetization''', occurs when a company prioritizes heavily monetizing a product or service, often at the expense of consumer engagement or even the product's functionality. Over-monetization may manifest in various forms, including [[advertising overload]], [[Predatory microtransactions|microtransactions]], unjustified [[Subscription service|subscriptions]], and locking core features behind a paywall, among others. While it's understood that products and services require compensation in some form, even when they're "free", the degradation of quality, limits of functionality, and loss of consumer engagement are often symptoms of excessive monetization of the product or service.

==Why is it a problem?==

===Genericide===
When a product, more specifically a [[Games as a service|live service game]], focuses excessively on monetization, it retroactively dulls the experience of the product, even going so far as to devalue the product itself. This can especially damage the core purpose of the product, since an event entirely unrelated to it could effectively block consumers from the full functionality of their product.

Often, when a game faces genericization through monetization, publishers are biased against development on core features and even bug fixes, instead opting to implement more generic or unrelated products to sell on the in-game storefront. For example, the Call of Duty Squid Game promotion overshadowed the spotlight on the game's development,<ref>{{Cite news |last=Armughanuddin |first=Md |date=Published Jan 3, 2025 |title=Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 Confirms Bad News About Squid Game Crossover Event |url=https://gamerant.com/call-of-duty-black-ops-6-squid-game-crossover-premium-battle-pass/ |access-date=3 Apr 2025 |work=GameRant}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Kain |first=Erik |date=6 Jan 2025 |title=‘Warzone’ Is Completely Broken After ‘Squid Game’ Update |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/erikkain/2025/01/06/warzone-is-completely-broken-after-squid-game-update/ |access-date=3 Apr 2025 |work=Forbes}}</ref> rather than the development of the game's anti-cheat, despite promises from [[Activision]].<ref>{{Cite news |last=Zhou |first=Andrew |date=Jan 3, 2025 |title=Fans Are Not Thrilled About The New Black Ops 6 Squid Game Event Due To The Premium Reward Track Price Tag |url=https://screenrant.com/black-ops-6-squid-game-price-premium/ |access-date=Apr 3, 2025 |work=ScreenRant}}</ref>

===Monetization Bias===
Often, when a product is over-monetized, the development of that product tends to be biased towards features that increase transactions from consumers or advertising promotions from other companies. This kind of bias also does not favor developing features and fixes that do not directly incur revenue for the publisher, including but not limited to patching bugs, tweaking balance, repairing product defects, and moderating communities.

===Monetizing mundane features===
Some product features that were once normal and free to access for consumers could also be monetized in absurd ways. Free-to-play (F2P) titles could see experience progression slowed down to encourage purchasing "experience boosts".

This can be further applied to mundane monetization, where products may have barely different variants being sold simultaneously. This is especially evident with cosmetics for games, where even a simple reskin or shader could be sold.

===Advertising Overload===
{{Main|Advertising overload}}
To generate revenue from consumers, companies may integrate advertisements into their products. This can become adverse if the company is hasty to incorporate advertisements.

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Common terms]]

Deep Cycle Systems

2025-12-13T22:11:50Z

ClippyFellow47: Grammar edits to improve tone.

{{Incomplete| Issue 1= There are several comments pointing out spots that need some improvement.|Issue 2=Other than those this article may need some rework to fit the [[Project:Sample/Company|company page template]]}}{{ToneWarning}}{{Hatnote|This article is about the battery manufacturer. For other uses, see [[DCS (disambiguation)]].}}{{InfoboxCompany
| Name = Deep Cycle Systems
| Type = Private
| Founded = 2015
| Industry = Lithium Batteries
| Official Website = https://deepcyclesystems.com.au/
| Logo = DeepCycleSystems.png
}}'''Deep Cycle Systems''' (DCS), founded in 2015, is an Australian company that specializes in the design and manufacture of lithium batteries and energy storage solutions.

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

==Claims==
DCS claims to manufacture long-life lithium batteries for extreme climates. They advertise them for use in solar systems and hybrid vehicles, including marine ones such as boats.[[Project:Verifiability|Better citation needed]]<ref>https://www.deepcyclesystems.com.au/</ref>


==Incidents==

===Lawsuit against reviews===
{{Hatnote|Main article: [[DCS sues Small YouTuber for accurate product review showing battery issues & misleading warranty]]}}

On August 16, 2023, Australian YouTuber [https://www.youtube.com/@AlloffroadAu AlloffroadAu] uploaded a review of DCS's 12v 50ah LiFePo4 lithium battery, mentioning the short longevity and substantial decline in performance after performing a capacity test. They also created a follow-up video regarding DCS's questionable history<ref>{{Cite web |last=AllOffRoad 4x4 |date=16 Aug 2023 |title=DCS Lithium LiFePo4 Under Bonnet Update: I went back to Lead Acid (under bonnet) 2023 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vRcSPuBob-I |website=YouTube}}</ref>. Both videos were set to private following legal threats from DCS<ref>{{Cite web |last=Rossmann |first=Louis |date=31 Jul 2024 |title=Man sued for YouTube product review reinstates video in blow to Deep Cycle Systems. |url=https://youtu.be/d37BG0O0mFk |website=YouTube}}</ref>.

AlloffroadAu reports that 30–50% of the storage capacity is lost in the first several years<ref>{{Cite web |last=Rossmann |first=Louis |date=23 Jul 2024 |title=DCS sues Small YouTuber for accurate product review showing battery issues & misleading warranty |url=https://youtu.be/_QNMVMlx48E?t=131 |website=YouTube}}</ref>{{Citation needed|reason=needs primary source}}. They also point out that DCS states that battery capacity will be significantly reduced after traveling a certain distance, but this is not mentioned in their warranty policy {{Citation needed}}.

===Hidden warranty policy update===
DCS's warranty policy claims that:<ref>https://www.deepcyclesystems.com.au/shipping-return-policy/</ref>

*For 'normal installations', batteries that fail to deliver 80% of their rated capacity are covered.
*For installations in engine bays/compartments, batteries that fail to deliver 70% of their rated capacity are covered.
*This policy was last updated June 14, 2021.

This has been the case since November 7, 2023, according to [https://trove.nla.gov.au/ Trove], a web archiving service partnered with the National Library of Australia and other organizations.<ref name=":0">https://webarchive.nla.gov.au/awa/20231107111343/https://www.deepcyclesystems.com.au/shipping-return-policy/</ref> However, Trove shows that on March 9, 2023, the exception for installations in engine bays/compartments didn't exist, contradicting DCS's statement that their policy was last updated in 2021<ref name=":1">https://webarchive.nla.gov.au/awa/20230309064156/https://www.deepcyclesystems.com.au/shipping-return-policy/</ref>.

The lack of the second criterion means that owners of a DCS battery purchased before March 9, 2023, are affected by:
*It was installed in an engine bay/compartment.
*Fell below 80% of its rated capacity.
*Remained above 70% of it.

Would be eligible for warranty coverage, but would have no way of knowing due to the changes to DCS's public warranty policy.

The Trove archives can be found here:

*DCS Warranty Policy on November 7, 2023<ref name=":0" />
*DCS Warranty Policy on March 9, 2023<ref name=":1" />

====Alleged removal of Wayback Machine archives====
Internet Archive's Wayback Machine has archives of this policy page, but they are all dated in 2024. This is suspicious when considering:

*DCS falsely claims that its policy was last updated in 2021, whereas Trove's archives indicate it was actually updated in 2023; the Wayback Machine does not cover either of these dates.
*Louis Rossmann claims that consumers of DCS batteries have reached out to him, stating that they were no longer able to access many older archives of the policy page when they contacted DCS, inquiring about when their policy was updated.


This suggests that DCS was responsible for removing archives before 2024.

===Cyberbullying accusations against Louis Rossmann===
On the 1st of August 2024, DCS filed a complaint to the Australian government against Louis Rossmann claiming that they are the target of an "orchestrated cyberbullying attack" by Rossmann and his follower base, with the goal being "to discredit the quality of our products," leading to "millions of dollars" of damage to the company, and demanded that Rossmann be "held accountable" for his actions. DCS claimed that Rossmann's accusations against them are "based on one person's opinion," and involved misinformation and disinformation, which is incorrect, because the accusations are backed up by evidence from various sources. For example, the claim about the rapid deterioration of battery capacity is based on research conducted by ITP Renewables; the report of this research is available on the Australian Renewable Energy Agency's website.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 June 2022 |title=Public Report 12 (Final Report) Lithium-ion Battery Testing |url=https://arena.gov.au/assets/2018/05/lithium-ion-battery-testing-public-report-12.pdf |website=Australian Renewable Energy Agency}}</ref> Rossmann's claim about warranty fraud is supported by an archived page from their own website, which proves that they falsified their warranty information.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Rossman |first=Louis |date=15 March 2025 |title=DCS reports me to Australian government for cyberbullying |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DxfNbxmT3B4 |website=YouTube}}</ref>

===Suspected fake positive reviews===
DCS has been suspected by productreview.com.au of fabricating positive reviews.<ref>https://www.productreview.com.au/listings/deep-cycle-systems-dcs</ref>

==Safety issues==
A reviewer claimed that on August 4, 2023, his car, which was carrying DCS batteries, exploded and caught fire; the occupants were unharmed, but the vehicle was destroyed as a result of the incident. The reviewer alleged that he was faced with legal threats from DCS for publishing the initial review.<ref>https://www.productreview.com.au/reviews/374ddb79-d4b4-5c58-9cae-fd350d231fc2</ref>

==References==
<references />
[[Category:Deep Cycle Systems]]

Requirement for Canon EOS Webcam Utility subscription to enable webcam features on cameras

2025-12-13T18:04:49Z

ClippyFellow47: Grammar edits to improve tone.

{{ToneWarning}}

[[Canon]], a camera company, sells webcams that feature advanced capabilities only through the use of a subscription-based app, Canon EOS Webcam Utility.

==Incident==
[[File:Canon-utility-pro-vs-free-pricing.png|thumb|alt=differences between free vs. paid subscription version of canon camera app|Differences between the free version vs. the subscription version of the Canon camera app.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Zipp |first=Roman |date=17 Jan 2025 |title=No, you can't use your $6,299.00 Camera as a Webcam. That will be $5 |url=https://romanzipp.com/blog/no-you-cant-use-your-6299-canon-camera-as-a-webcam |access-date=19 Aug 2025 |website=romanzipp.com}}</ref>]]

The '''Canon EOS Webcam Utility''', a software designed to connect Canon cameras to computers for use as high-quality webcams, restricts advanced features such as higher resolution, color adjustments, and white balance settings – unless customers subscribe to a paid plan.

Specific modern Canon cameras can be used as a webcam without additional cost by utilizing the UVC/UAC functionality. For example, the Canon EOS R1 instruction manual provides a guide on how to use UVC/UAC, ensuring that the webcam functionality operates without limitations at full 1080p resolution and 30 frames per second.<ref name=":1" /> This UVC/UAC functionality does not include several advanced features, and cameras that do not feature UVC/UAC functionality cannot be used as a high-resolution webcam without the Canon EOS Webcam Utility.

This has been criticized as an example of the anti-ownership subscription economy, which describes practices where companies deliberately limit functionality to generate recurring revenue from features that are already included in the product's hardware. Customers are required to pay $4.99 per month, or $49.99 per year, to unlock the full suite of features if they use an older camera that does not support the UVC/UAC standard. A free version of the Canon EOS Webcam Utility is available, offering 720p webcam functionality without advanced features. Critics argue that this undermines ownership rights; if Canon decides to discontinue support for the software or shut down the servers, access to these features can be lost, even if the hardware remains capable of supporting them.

==Technical details==

===Hardware capability===
Modern Canon cameras are capable of functioning as high-quality webcams without any software or hardware modifications, using the '''UVC/UAC standard'''.<ref name=":1">[https://cam.start.canon/en/C018/manual/html/UG-06_Network_0300.html Canon USB Streaming Manual]</ref>

===Differences between UVC/UAC mode and EOS Webcam Utility Pro===
Canon provides two methods for using its cameras as webcams. The first is the UVC/UAC mode, and the second is EOS Webcam Utility Pro.

*'''UVC/UAC mode''':
**Supported on modern Canon camera models, such as the EOS R8 and R5 II
**Allows users to connect the camera directly to a computer via USB without requiring additional software or fees
**Outputs video at a resolution of 1920x1080 (1080p) at 30 frames per second, with built-in audio support<ref name=":1" />

*'''EOS Webcam Utility Pro''':
**Requires a paid subscription ($4.99 per month or $49.99 per year) to access its full features<ref name=":2">[https://www.usa.canon.com/product-page/eos-webcam-utility Canon EOS Webcam Utility Pricing Details]</ref>
**Unlocks advanced functionality like adjustable brightness, color settings, and white balance controls

===Compatible camera models===

====Cameras supporting UVC/UAC====
{| class="wikitable"
!Camera Model!!Resolution!!Frame Rate!!Citation
|-
|Canon EOS R1||1920x1080||30 fps||[https://diiorio.me/posts/uvc-cameras/ Source]
|-
|Canon EOS R5 Mark II||1920x1080||30 fps||[https://diiorio.me/posts/uvc-cameras/ Source]
|-
|Canon EOS R6 Mark II||1920x1080||30 fps||[https://diiorio.me/posts/uvc-cameras/ Source]
|-
|Canon EOS R8||1920x1080||30 fps||[https://diiorio.me/posts/uvc-cameras/ Source]
|-
|Canon EOS R50||1920x1080||30 fps||[https://diiorio.me/posts/uvc-cameras/ Source]
|-
|Canon PowerShot V10||1920x1080||30 fps||[https://diiorio.me/posts/uvc-cameras/ Source]
|}

====Cameras requiring EOS Webcam Utility subscription====
{| class="wikitable"
!Camera Model!!Citation
|-
|Canon EOS-1D X Mark II||[https://gdlp01.c-wss.com/gds/2/0300023012/04/eos1dx-mk2-im4-en.pdf Instruction Manual]
|-
|Canon EOS 5D Mark IV||[https://gdlp01.c-wss.com/gds/0/0300024970/07/eos5d-mk4-im8-en.pdf Instruction Manual]
|-
|Canon EOS 6D||[https://gdlp01.c-wss.com/gds/8/0300009238/06/eos6d-im7-en.pdf Instruction Manual]
|-
|Canon EOS M50||[https://gdlp01.c-wss.com/gds/3/0300029803/01/eosm50-um-en.pdf Instruction Manual]
|-
|Canon EOS R||[https://gdlp01.c-wss.com/gds/3/0300032123/08/eosr-ug9-en.pdf Instruction Manual]
|-
|Canon EOS R7
|[https://cam.start.canon/en/C005/manual/c005.pdf Instruction Manual]
|-
|Canon EOS Rebel T7||[https://gdlp01.c-wss.com/gds/0/0300029810/03/eos-rebelt7-1500d-im2-en.pdf Instruction Manual]
|-
|Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II||[https://gdlp01.c-wss.com/gds/9/0300035509/02/psg5x-mk2-ug2-en.pdf Instruction Manual]
|-
|Canon EOS 70D
|[http://gdlp01.c-wss.com/gds/5/0300011965/01/eos70d-im-en.pdf Instruction Manual]
|}

==Software details==

===EOS Webcam Utility===
[[File:Canon uvc manual.png|thumb|Canon's [https://cam.start.canon/en/C018/manual/html/UG-06_Network_0300.html instruction manual for the EOS R1] provides instructions on how to use the webcam via a standard USB connection with UVC/UAC at 1920x1080 resolution at 30 frames per second, with audio support.<ref name=":1" />]]

The Canon EOS Webcam Utility is a software application that enables webcam functionality on Canon cameras. While the free version of this utility supports basic features like 720p resolution, advanced settings, such as brightness adjustments, white balance, & 1080p resolution, are locked behind a subscription plan.

===Subscription requirement===
To access the advanced features of the EOS Webcam Utility, Canon requires users to subscribe to a paid plan, which costs $4.99 per month or $49.99 per year.<ref name=":2" />

==Impact and reception==

===Ownership concerns===
Critics argue that Canon's decision to monetize features already supported by the hardware undermines the concept of ownership. Additionally, the reliance on subscription-based software introduces risks of obsolescence should Canon discontinue the service or cease software support in the future.

===User frustrations===
Many users have reported frustrations with the EOS Webcam Utility, including mandatory account registration and server-related issues that hinder access to the free version. Such barriers have amplified dissatisfaction among consumers, especially given the availability of the free UVC/UAC mode for newer models.<ref>{{Cite web |last=@koenkooi |date=17 Jan 2025 |title=Canon to start charging for using cameras as webcams - Or you can set the USB mode to UVC/UAC for free and have it work as a webcam: https:// cam.start.canon/en/C018/manual/html/UG-06_Network_0300.html |url=https://www.canonrumors.com/forum/threads/canon-to-start-charging-for-using-cameras-as-webcams.44299/#post-1018704 |url-status=live |access-date=19 Aug 2025 |website=canonrumors.com}}</ref>

===Canon's response===
Canon's moderator, who represents himself as part of Canon by use of the verbiage ''"our dev team",'' stated the following concerning this software's business model:<ref>{{Cite web |last=Canon Moderator |first=Stephen |date=17 Sep 2024 |title=Why is the the "EOS Webcam Utility" a Subscription App? |url=https://community.usa.canon.com/t5/EOS-Webcam-Utility-Pro/Why-is-the-the-quot-EOS-Webcam-Utility-quot-a-Subscription-App/m-p/491093 |access-date=19 Aug 2025 |website=community.usa.canon.com}}</ref><blockquote>"The EOS Webcam Utility was originally developed during lockdown when webcams weren't available because everyone was working from home. Our dev team put it together for free to allow our users to be able to take advantage of the cameras they already had. When it became apparent that our users wanted the software to do more and be better than something thrown together in ''a week'', our dev team spent time revising the app, fixing bugs, and ensuring greater compatibility. At that point, we realized we couldn't keep devoting precious developer time and resources to an app that is pretty popular but free. At the same time, the team also needed a whole portfolio of other products to develop updates, drivers, and new software. The solution was an optional subscription model. We didn't remove anything from the original free version, but we added benefits users could opt into for a small monthly (or annual) fee. This allows us to allocate sufficient talent to the EOS Webcam Utility to keep enhancing and updating the software as new versions of Windows or macOS become available or new camera models hit the market."</blockquote>In response, users pointed to Canon's net profit of over $2 billion per year, combined with the high cost of the camera, as reasons they believe this was an unnecessary, anti-consumer move by Canon.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Financial Highlights |url=https://global.canon/en/ir/finance/highlight.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240618000518/https://global.canon/en/ir/finance/highlight.html |archive-date=18 Jun 2024 |access-date=19 Aug 2025 |website=Canon}}</ref><ref name=":0" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Purdy |first=Kevin |date=17 Jan 2025 |title=Camera owner asks Canon, skies: Why is it $5/month for webcam software? |url=https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2025/01/canon-charges-50-per-year-to-use-a-900-camera-as-a-functional-webcam/ |url-status=live |access-date=19 Aug 2025 |website=ArsTechnica}}</ref>

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Canon]]

Leadwerks

2025-12-13T18:00:09Z

ClippyFellow47: Super minor grammar edits to improve tone.

{{ToneWarning}}
{{Incomplete}}
{{InfoboxProductLine
| Title = Leadwerks
| Release Year =2025
| Product Type =Software PC gaming engine
| In Production =Yes, in development
| Official Website =https://www.leadwerks.com/
| Logo = Leadwerks.svg
}}

'''Leadwerks''' is a gaming engine, formerly known as Ultra Engine, created by Leadwerks Software. The engine is currently in early access and offers royalty-free licenses through either a $99.99 perpetual license or a $5.99/month subscription license.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Software |url=https://www.leadwerks.com/community/store/category/1-software/ |url-status=live |access-date=3 Sep 2025 |website=Leadwerks Community}}</ref>

==Consumer impact summary==
*User Freedom: The perpetual license does not give users the right to use the program as it is at the time of purchase. The purchased version cannot be used either online or offline.{{Citation needed}} Only specific releases selected by Leadwerks are available.

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

===Perpetual license blocking===
When Ultra Engine rebranded as Leadwerks, they required all users to update to a newer version of the client.{{Citation needed}} The new client prompted users to log in with their email address instead of their username, which blocked users with a perpetual license from accessing their installation until they re-verified that their perpetual license was active.{{Citation needed}}

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]

Mazda DMCA takedown of open source Home Assistant app

2025-12-13T17:56:19Z

ClippyFellow47: Minor grammar edits to improve tone.

{{ToneWarning}}

Mazda brand cars enable remote access to certain vehicle functions via servers owned by the company. To access these functions, Mazda provides an official app for smartphones. After an open-source project emerged that integrated support for Mazda vehicles into the Home Assistant suite, Mazda issued a false [[Digital Millennium Copyright Act|DMCA]] takedown notice, causing the project to be abandoned. A year after the incident, Mazda introduced a subscription model into its app, which costs $10/month, locking the previously free features behind a paywall.

==Background==
Many Mazda vehicles offer remote access to various car functions. These features include starting the engine remotely, rolling the windows up or down, and checking the fuel level. To control the car remotely, Mazda offers an official app<ref>{{Cite web |title=MyMazda App on the Google PlayStore |url=https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.interrait.mymazda&hl=en |url-status=live |access-date=2025-05-08 |website=MyMazda - Google Play}}</ref> for your phone that connects to a server, which then transmits the data to the vehicle.

Programmer Brandon Rothweiler released an open-source tool that integrates Mazda connectivity features into the open-source home management software "Home Assistant". This open platform enables users to access their products, which incorporate Mazda connectivity features into the open-source home management software "Home Assistant". Home Assistant is an open platform that allows users to access their products through<ref>{{Cite web |title=Open Source Integration on Github |url=https://github.com/bdr99/pymazda |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220717224306/https://github.com/bdr99/pymazda |archive-date=2022-07-17 |access-date=2025-05-08 |website=Github - Open source my MyMazda integration}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Mazda Connected Services on the Home Assistant website |url=https://community.home-assistant.io/t/mazda-connected-service/354221 |url-status=live |access-date=2025-05-08 |website=Home Assistant - Mazda Connected Service}}</ref> integrations that integrate Mazda connectivity features into the open-source home management software "Home Assistant". This platform enables users to access their products via these individually created integrations. The program functions in essentially the same way as Mazda's official app, connecting to Mazda's servers that control your car remotely.

==DMCA takedown notice and subsequent subscription fee==
On October 10, 2023, Mazda issued a DMCA takedown notice to GitHub, claiming that the integration adding connectivity to Mazda vehicles infringes on their intellectual property rights by stealing code from their official app and requesting that it, along with forks of the project, be <ref>{{Cite web |title=Takedown Notice by Mazda |url=https://github.com/github/dmca/blob/master/2023/10/2023-10-10-mazda.md |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231012182527/https://github.com/github/dmca/blob/master/2023/10/2023-10-10-mazda.md |archive-date=2023-10-12 |access-date=2025-05-08 |website=Github}}</ref> to GitHub claiming the integration that adds connectivity with Mazda vehicles infringes on their intellectual property rights by stealing code from their official app and wanted it, along with forks of the project, removed from the website. The developer did not want to challenge the claims and took down the repository within a few days to avoid potential legal repercussions. With the repository and all its forks gone, the integration was also removed from the Home Assistant app.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Removal of Mazda Connected Services on Home Assistant |url=https://www.home-assistant.io/blog/2023/10/13/removal-of-mazda-connected-services-integration/ |url-status=live |access-date=2025-05-10 |website=Home Assistant}}</ref>

Code from Mazda's official app is not required to develop a tool that functions similarly. The server's API is freely accessible and figuring out how to interact with it can be done entirely without infringing on anyone's copyright. 

===Mazda's response===

There was no public response from Mazda on the DMCA takedown notice.

===Official MyMazda app===
The official app can be used for free during a limited trial, which lasts either 1 or 3 years, depending on when the car was purchased<ref>{{Cite web |title=MyMazda Free Trials |url=https://mazda.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/192/~/is-there-a-subscription-fee-for-mazda-connected-services%3F |url-status=live |access-date=2025-05-10 |website=Mazda FAQ}}</ref>. However, after the trial period ends, a subscription fee of $10/month<ref>{{Cite web |title=10 dollars a month |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/mazda/comments/1egs0ik/connected_services_no_longer_free/ |url-status=live |access-date=2025-05-10 |website=Reddit}}</ref> must be paid to retain the MyMazda connectivity features. The price was not disclosed to buyers in advance, only that the service would incur a future cost<ref>{{Cite web |title=Mazda USA hasn't announced how much it will cost |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/mazda/comments/12s3sy9/comment/jgww4c2/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web3x&utm_name=web3xcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button |url-status=live |access-date=2025-05-10 |website=Reddit}}</ref>, only that the service would eventually cost money in the future. The durations of the free trials were staged to expire around the same time, starting around late 2024. The shutdown of the free, open-source alternative just a year prior paints this in a broader context of anti-consumer practices: First, the only free alternative is shut down via a dubious cease-and-desist letter, and then the official product starts requiring a subscription fee to be paid.

==Consumer response==

People were unhappy about the takedown of the open-source repository, as many felt the unofficial app worked better and was easier to use than Mazda's own MyMazda service. Additionally, some have stated that they would not have purchased a Mazda vehicle had they known the open-source project would be struck by a DMCA claim<ref>{{Cite web |title=Would not have purchased a Mazda had I know this was coming. |url=https://community.home-assistant.io/t/mazda-connected-service/354221/102 |url-status=live |access-date=2025-05-10 |website=Home Assistant}}</ref>, forcing the use of the official app, which many feel is not worth the price.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Reddit Discussion on Subscription fee for MyMazda app |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/mazda/comments/1hvntgn/is_anyone_paying_for_the_mazda_connected_service/ |url-status=live |access-date=2025-05-10 |website=Reddit}}</ref>

==References==
{{reflist}}
[[Category:MyMazda]]
[[Category:Mazda]]
[[Category:Subscription-based services]]

Star Citizen

2025-12-13T17:44:49Z

ClippyFellow47: Major grammar edits to improve tone.

{{Incomplete|Issue 1=Insufficient references and in-text citations.|Issue 2=Impromper formatting of references.}}{{Tone}}{{InfoboxProductLine
| Title = Star Citizen
| Release Year = 2012-present
| Product Type = Digital Game Content
| In Production = Yes
| Developer = Cloud Imperium Games
| Official Website = https://robertsspaceindustries.com/
|Logo=Star citizen logo.png}}
'''[[Wikipedia:Star Citizen|Star Citizen]]''' is a crowdfunded space station simulator game. Star Citizen combines features from space simulators, first-person shooters, and massively multiplayer online genres across its four playable modes. These modes, known as modules, offer distinct player experiences.

==Background==
Star Citizen began as a Kickstarter campaign in 2012 by Chris Roberts, creator of Wing Commander. The project promised a combination of space combat, trading, and exploration alongside a single-player campaign called Squadron 42. The campaign initially raised $2.1 million, with total crowdfunding exceeding $600 million by 2024 through the continuous sale of digital ships and game packages.

==Undelivered product sales==
Cloud Imperium Games (CIG) has maintained a practice of selling digital products years before implementation under the guise of calling it a 'concept', with several items or 'pledges' remaining undelivered after a decade:

===Ships and Vehicles===
*Idris-M: Military variant sold in 2012 for $1,000, incomplete version delivered May 2025.<ref>https://starcitizen.tools/Idris-M</ref>
*Idris-P: Civilian variant sold since 2012 for $1,250, price increased to $1,500, incomplete version delivered May 2025.<ref>https://starcitizen.tools/Idris-P</ref>
*Banu Merchantman | Merchantman: First sold in 2013 for $250 (original concept sale); currently priced at $600.<ref>https://starcitizen.tools/Merchantman</ref>
*Orion: First sold in 2014 for $325 (original concept sale), the industrial mining vessel remains undelivered; current price is $575.<ref>https://starcitizen.tools/Orion</ref>
*Genesis Starliner: Sold in 2015 for $400 (original concept sale), passenger transport remains undelivered.<ref>https://starcitizen.tools/Genesis_Starliner</ref>
*Endeavor: Made available in 2015 for $350 (original concept sale), with limited availability due to price increases.<ref>https://starcitizen.tools/Endeavor</ref>
*Hull D: Sold since 2015 for $350 (original concept sale), price increased in subsequent sales.<ref>https://starcitizen.tools/Hull_D</ref>
*Hull E: Offered in 2015 for $550 (original concept sale), increased to $950 in later sales.<ref>https://starcitizen.tools/Hull_E</ref>
*Crucible: Sold in 2015 for $350 (original concept sale), repair ship remains undelivered.<ref>https://starcitizen.tools/Crucible</ref>
*Pioneer: Marketed in 2017 for $850 (original concept sale), base-building vessel remains in concept phase<ref>https://starcitizen.tools/Pioneer</ref>
*Drake Kraken: First sold in 2018 for $1,400 (original concept sale), capital ship with privateer variant sold for $2,000, remains undelivered.<ref>https://starcitizen.tools/Kraken</ref>
*Railen: First sold in 2021 for $200 (original concept sale), remains undelivered.<ref>https://starcitizen.tools/Railen</ref>

Note: All listed vessels have been sold multiple times since their original concept sales, often at increased prices. Many remain in concept phase or early development despite years passing since initial sales.

==Consumer protection concerns==
The practice of selling digital products years before they are implemented has raised significant concerns regarding consumer protection. Despite marketing these items as 'pledges' or 'concepts', CIG continues to charge real money for digital goods with no firm delivery timeline or guarantee of implementation. The company's terms of service have been modified multiple times since 2012, changing the conditions under which refunds are offered and altering customer rights regarding purchased content. Many backers who attempted to obtain refunds for undelivered products have reported difficulties, with CIG often citing their evolving terms of service as justification for denial. The lack of concrete development schedules for sold items, combined with regular price increases for unreleased content, has led to criticism from consumer advocacy groups and gaming industry observers. Additionally, the practice of artificial scarcity through "limited-time sales" of digital products that don't yet exist has been questioned as potentially misleading marketing.
[[File:ASA Response .png|thumb|A response letter from the Advertising Standards Authority affirming that Cloud Imperium Games likely had breached the Advertising Rules. ]]
In 2021, following a consumer complaint to the UK Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) by a member of the /r/starcitizen_refunds community, Cloud Imperium Games was required to modify its concept ship marketing emails after the ASA determined that they violated UK advertising rules<ref>https://www.reddit.com/r/starcitizen_refunds/comments/pfgchs/uk_advertising_standards_agency_rule_concept_ship/</ref>, Cloud Imperium Games was needed to alter its concept ship marketing emails after the ASA determined they violated Advertising Rules in the UK. The issue centered on emails promoting concept ships without clear disclosure that the advertised vessels did not yet exist in the game. In response, CIG added a standardized disclaimer to their marketing emails stating that concept ships are "being offered here as a limited vehicle concept pledge". The disclaimer also notes that purchasers receive a temporary "loaner vehicle" until their bought ship becomes available.

==Development status contradictions==
A notable point of controversy surrounds CIG's inconsistent messaging regarding the development status of Star Citizen. When players report persistent bugs, server issues, or gameplay problems, CIG and community moderators frequently emphasize the game's "alpha" status as justification for these issues, suggesting the project is still in early development. However, when faced with questions about the delayed delivery of promised features or criticism of continuous sales practices, the company often presents Star Citizen as a delivered, playable product that is simply receiving ongoing development. This contradiction has been particularly evident in legal contexts, where CIG has defended against refund requests by asserting that the base game has been "delivered" to backers, while simultaneously using the alpha designation to deflect criticism about long-standing technical issues and missing core gameplay features promised in the original crowdfunding campaign. The dual narrative has led to growing skepticism within the gaming community about the project's actual development status and CIG's transparency regarding project completion criteria.

==Development communication issues==
Squadron 42's "Answer the Call 2017" marketing campaign ultimately failed when CIG failed to deliver the promised single-player campaign, despite extensive marketing featuring a star-studded cast, including Mark Hamill, Gary Oldman, and Gillian Anderson. <ref>https://starcitizen.tools/Squadron_42</ref> Following community backlash over the missed release, CIG announced plans for a new project roadmap in late 2017. However, this evolved into what became known as the "Roadmap to the Roadmap," with a release view being finally available in March of 2018. When finally delivered, the new roadmap consistently showed missed deadlines and delayed features. Rather than address these delays, CIG ultimately discontinued much of the roadmap's progress tracker in February 2022, dismissively labeling concerned backers as "roadmap watchers" <ref>https://robertsspaceindustries.com/spectrum/community/SC/forum/3/thread/roadmap-roundup-february-2nd-2022</ref> and claiming that showing development progress "puts too much attention on features that had a high probability of shifting around" and was "a distraction both internally at CIG and within the community". This marked a significant departure from their previous promises of transparency and was met with substantial community backlash, particularly from backers who had used the roadmap to track progress on features they had purchased years earlier.

==Consumer response==
[[File:-r-Starcitizen Corruption.png|thumb|CIG Employee Zac Preece is requesting that a post be removed from the /r/starcitizen Reddit in a private Discord server. This post, by the Reddit moderator Ian (MrRiceGuy), didn't violate the rules, yet it was still removed anyway. ]]
The prolonged development timeline and sales practices have led to organized consumer response movements, notably the /r/starcitizen_refunds subreddit community, which has over 18,000 members.<ref>https://www.reddit.com/r/starcitizen_refunds/</ref>. This subreddit serves as a platform for dissatisfied backers seeking refunds, documenting development delays, and tracking changes to terms of service that affect consumer rights. Discussion of these issues on official channels is heavily restricted, with CIG's Spectrum forum rules explicitly prohibiting posts deemed to spread "fear, uncertainty, and doubt" (FUD)<ref>https://support.robertsspaceindustries.com/hc/en-us/articles/115013196427-Spectrum-and-Website-Rules-and-Moderation-Responsibilities</ref> and the discussion of support tickets/moderation decisions.

While unofficial communities, such as the /r/starcitizen subreddit and Discord server, exist, these spaces are heavily moderated to prevent discussion of negative sentiment due to the strong ties between their moderators and Cloud Imperium Games employees.

As a result, /r/starcitizen_refunds has become the primary platform for maintaining records of unfulfilled promises and providing guidance for others seeking refunds.

==In-game moderation inconsistencies==
[[File:Example of Exessive Griefing .png|thumb|An example of a user being banned for the term 'Excessive Griefing' and being directed to review the terms of service and rules of conduct for a term that doesn't exist. ]]
The moderation practices of Cloud Imperium have drawn criticism for inconsistent and opaque enforcement. Users can receive bans for "excessive griefing" despite this term having no defined parameters in either the Terms of Service<ref>https://robertsspaceindustries.com/en/tos</ref> or Rules of Conduct<ref>https://support.robertsspaceindustries.com/hc/en-us/articles/4409491235351-Rules-of-Conduct</ref> documentation. Users receive these bans without stated reasons, requiring them to file support tickets to learn of their alleged infractions. This lack of transparency and disconnect between written policies and enforcement has created significant uncertainty about what constitutes acceptable behavior.

Star Citizen's Persistent Universe, or PU for short, is an open sandbox that allows players to engage in PVP activities such as Piracy and Bounty Hunting, yet participating in these activities could lead a player to being banned for 'excessively' engaging in this activity under the guise of it being 'harassment' to do so.

===The HuskyPie Incident===
On April 21, 2025, Cloud Imperium Games banned player HuskyPie for 17 days after German content creator Karolinger falsely accused him of stream sniping. The incident occurred in Pyro, a lawless system explicitly for PvP combat. HuskyPie was completing a mercenary mission when he encountered and killed Karolinger twice at Bueno Ravine. Despite having no evidence beyond the streamer's accusations, CIG suspended HuskyPie's account. [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M0eipkl66-8 As documented in an episode of the "Griefers Pub" podcast], HuskyPie was forced to appeal by providing his own game logs, which proved he was already at the location on mission objectives and had never watched Karolinger's stream. CIG eventually overturned the ban but offered no apology or explanation for its actions. This case directly demonstrates preferential treatment for content creators. It shows how regular players can be banned for engaging in permitted gameplay while content creators receive special protection from legitimate game mechanics.

==References==
{{reflist}}
[[Category:Star Citizen]]

Subscription service

2025-12-13T17:19:55Z

ClippyFellow47: Minor grammar edits to improve tone, article still requires significant work.

{{StubNotice}}{{ToneWarning}}

A '''subscription service''' is an ongoing transaction agreement between the customer and the company, where a user usually pays on a weekly, monthly, or yearly basis to use the services provided by the company. In many cases, this model is used where a company has a sustained cost of doing business, some of which include cloud storage, VPN's and many other SaaS products.

==How it works==
When an individual wishes to use a service like a VPN (Virtual Private Network) like Mulvad VPN, an ongoing payment agreement (subscription) is established so that the business can continue to be sustainable and profitable. Prices may increase or decrease depending on various factors and promotions that a company may offer to attract more customers to experience their service.

==Why is it a problem?==

===Subscription-based economy trend===
Subscription service revenue was estimated at "$3 trillion in 2024, up from estimates of around $2 trillion in 2023"<ref>[https://whop.com/blog/subscription-statistics/#:~:text=metrics%2C%20and%20more.-,Subscription%20Economy%20Statistics,%242%20trillion%20in%2020231. "100+ Subscription Statistics for 2025"] - whop.com - accessed 2025-01-23</ref>. Subscription services are becoming more prevalent. The replacement of permanent ownership with subscription services has some negative impacts that can harm consumer rights.

===Redefinition of ownership===
Instances of companies using the terms "ownership" and "own" when referring to subscription products and services have become prevalent. These instances are, at the bare minimum, misnomers: consumers do not own something if they have to pay a subscription to use it. The redefinition of language could be seen as a malicious attempt by companies to lessen the severity of the loss of ownership that consumers are now facing.

===OTA subscription paywall updates===
Companies like BMW paywall specific features on their cars that were once available without a subscription and advertised as a part of the original product that was purchased to get more money out of customers who may have bought the product for its feature lineup

===Making subscriptions hard to cancel===
Memberships and sign-ups, such as those for gyms, which offer a service, make it very easy to sign up online, and then, in turn, make it very hard to cancel. Specific gyms may even require you to certify that you are mailing them, just so that you can cancel the service you signed up for online. Additionally, some services like Adobe will even penalize you for canceling early instead of waiting for the subscription to expire and choosing not to renew. This practice is mainly designed to make consumers feel that it's not worth their time and effort to cancel the subscription.

===Licenses as subscriptions===
A [[license]] grants rights to use a product or service.<ref>[https://www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com/us/definition/english/licence "license"] - oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com - accessed 2025-01-23</ref> Licenses differ from subscriptions in that they are permanent, whereas subscriptions are not. In addition, many companies choose to make temporary "licenses" last longer than subscriptions, as [[Adobe]] does.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20250123232818/https://www.adobe.com/howtobuy/buying-programs.html "Adobe Buying Programs"] - archive.org - archived 2025-01-23 </ref> Licenses may also apply to large groups of people, e.g., a student license granted to students for free. The concern here is that [[License euthanasia|permanent licenses are being phased out]] using the [[retroactively amended purchase]] strategy, as [[Adobe Lightroom: Perpetual to Subscription Transition|Adobe has done]], possibly because subscriptions are more profitable. The term "license" is likely vulnerable to redefinition, as ownership is.

===Subscription inflation===
Subscription inflation occurs when companies increase subscription prices, often arbitrarily. This practice has been seen with Netflix subscriptions, where in 2025 "the standard monthly subscription without advertisements will climb from $15.49 to $17.99, and a standard monthly subscription with ads will increase one dollar to $7.99, Netflix said.<ref name=":0">[https://abcnews.go.com/Business/netflix-raises-prices-us-plans/story?id=117971949 "Netflix raises prices for all US plans. Here's what to know."] - abcnews.go.com - accessed 2025-01-23</ref> Subscription inflation need not be done to recoup lost revenue, as this Netflix subscription price increase actually occurred after a year of "a stellar earnings report" <ref name=":0" />, meaning that Netflix has the resources to improve its service without raising prices. Subscription inflation has been and will continue to be used solely to raise company profits by forcing consumers to pay more for what may be an inferior service.

==Examples of subscription services==

===TV/Film===

====Netflix====
<blockquote>Further reading: [[Netflix, Inc.]]</blockquote>Netflix is a subclass of subscription service, known as a streaming service, where consumers have access to a library of TV shows and movies that persist on the platform for a limited time.

===Gaming===
{{Main|Games as a service}}

====Game Pass====
<blockquote>Further reading: [[Game Pass]]</blockquote>Game Pass, also known as Xbox Game Pass or [[Microsoft Office 2019 for Mac|Microsoft]] Game Pass, is a subscription service provided by [[Microsoft]] where, for a fee, consumers have open (but temporary) access to games on both Xbox and PC.

====Nintendo Switch Online (NSO)====
<blockquote>Further reading: [[Nintendo Switch Online]] </blockquote>Nintendo Switch Online is a subscription service that offers features on previously available [[Nintendo]] platforms, such as online play and subscription-gated content that used to be one-time purchases, including their emulation library. Additionally, all DLC obtained freely via the service remains accessible only as long as the consumer continues to pay for the service.<ref>https://www.nintendo.com/us/switch/online/nintendo-switch-online/expansion-pack/#dlc</ref>

===Software as a service===
{{Main|Software as a service}}

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:Common terms]]

Reverse engineering vs illegal hacking

2025-12-12T18:32:57Z

ClippyFellow47: Grammar edits to improve tone.

{{ToneWarning}}

This article addresses the widespread, harmful misconception that breaking a digital lock or modifying software behavior is '''always''' ''considered "illegal hacking."'' In truth, U.S. law, while flawed, draws a clear line between lawful reverse engineering and criminal activity.

Companies often exploit this confusion to suppress ownership rights, discourage common repairs, and hinder interoperability under the guise of protecting security or intellectual property. The following information will clarify legal distinctions, correct the narrative, and explain why reverse engineering your own device to restore or preserve its functionality is not, and should never be, deemed a crime.

In this article, "hack" or "illegal hacking" is used interchangeably for illegally hacking, or "to get into someone else's computer system without permission in order to do something illegal" ([https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/hack#cald4-1-3 Hack | Cambridge Dictionary]). This should not be confused with the slang "hack" that describe the act of tinkering or modifying a device (like "a hackable laptop").

References to U.S.A. and E.U. (European Union) law can be found, alongside practical examples and hypothetical scenarios, to further understand where the line between legal and illegal activity resides.

==What section 1201 is for==
'''Section 1201 of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act''' (DMCA), passed in 1998, prohibits the circumvention of ''"technological protection measures"'' (TPMs) used to control access to copyrighted works. It also prohibits the distribution of tools designed primarily for circumvention of copyright protection measures.

What makes Section 1201 controversial is that it penalizes circumvention '''regardless of whether any copyright infringement occurred'''. In other words, even if you just want to modify or fix a product you legally own, you may still be in "violation" if the manufacturer practices overreach with DRM.

To soften this universal approach of limiting consumer rights, Congress allowed for temporary exemptions to be reviewed every three years by the Library of Congress. These exemptions currently include limited instances of repair, diagnosis, security research, accessibility, and jailbreaking of phones. However, the process is cumbersome, narrow in scope, and inconsistently applied.

==Legal reverse engineering vs. illegal hacking==
Contrary to what some CEOs and public relations departments have said, '''reverse engineering is legal in many contexts''' — especially when done for purposes of interoperability, repair, research, or personal use.

===What counts as legal reverse engineering===
The U.S. legal system has repeatedly upheld the right to reverse engineer in certain contexts, particularly when the intent is to facilitate interoperability or understand how a product works. Notable court decisions include:

*'''Sega Enterprises Ltd. v. Accolade, Inc.''' (1992): The Ninth Circuit ruled that disassembling code to understand how to make compatible software was fair use.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Sega Enters. Ltd. v. Accolade, Inc., 977 F.2d 1510 (9th Cir. 1992) |url=https://www.copyright.gov/fair-use/summaries/segaenters-accolade-9thcir1992.pdf |format=PDF}}</ref>

*'''Sony Computer Entertainment v. Connectix Corp.''' (2000): The court affirmed that reverse engineering to create a competing product (a PlayStation emulator) was legal and transformative, and that making intermediate copies of a copyrighted bios for use in software development constitutes fair use .<ref>{{Cite web |title=Sony Computer Entm’t, Inc. v. Connectix Corp., 203 F.3d 596 (9th Cir. 2000) |url=https://www.copyright.gov/fair-use/summaries/sony-connectix-9thcir2000.pdf |format=PDF}}</ref>

*'''Lexmark Int'l v. Static Control Components''' (2004): The Sixth Circuit ruled that Static Control could reverse engineer printer firmware to enable third-party toner cartridges. The court noted that interoperability took precedence over DMCA anti-circumvention claims.<ref name="lexmark">{{Wplink|Lexmark International, Inc. v. Static Control Components, Inc.}}</ref>

*'''Chamberlain Group v. Skylink Technologies''' (2004): The Federal Circuit ruled that creating universal garage door remotes through reverse engineering was a legitimate practice, establishing that DMCA violations must be directly connected to actual copyright infringement.<ref>{{Cite web |title=The CHAMBERLAIN GROUP, INC., Plaintiff–Appellant, v. SKYLINK TECHNOLOGIES, INC., Defendant–Appellee. No. 04–1118. United States Court of Appeals, Federal Circuit |url=https://www.law.berkeley.edu/files/Chamberlain_Group_v_Skylink_Technologies.pdf |format=PDF}}</ref>

*'''DSC Communications v. DGI Technologies''' (1995): Courts held that disassembling firmware to create compatible microprocessor cards constituted fair use, establishing that functional elements accessed only through disassembly can be lawfully copied.<ref>{{Cite web |title=DSC Communications Corp. v. DGI Technologies, Inc., 898 F. Supp. 1183 (N.D. Tex. 1995) |url=https://law.justia.com/cases/federal/district-courts/FSupp/898/1183/1464449/}}</ref>

*'''Assessment Technologies v. WIREdata''' (2003): The Seventh Circuit ruled that reverse engineering to access public domain data trapped within copyrighted software is permissible, preventing copyright from creating "locks" on non-copyrightable information.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Assessment Technologies of Wi, Llc, Plaintiff-appellee, v. Wiredata, Inc., Defendant-appellant, 350 F.3d 640 (7th Cir. 2003) |url=https://law.justia.com/cases/federal/appellate-courts/F3/350/640/625754/}}</ref>

Legal reverse engineering generally includes:
*Analyzing software you own for repair or maintenance
*Studying protocols to make devices work with third-party tools
*Extracting firmware from your own hardware
*Building alternate apps that communicate with your devices
*Publishing technical findings that don't contain copyrighted code
*Good faith security research under DMCA exemptions

===What constitutes illegal hacking===
Illegal hacking, by contrast, involves:
*Accessing remote systems without authorization
*Bypassing login or authentication mechanisms on someone else's network
*Stealing or distributing copyrighted code without a license
*Tampering with systems in ways that compromise others' data or services
*Continuing access after explicit revocation (see '''Facebook v. Power Ventures''', 2016)<ref>{{Cite web |title=FACEBOOK, INC., a Delaware corporation, Plaintiff-Appellee, v. POWER VENTURES, INC., DBA Power.com, a California corporation; POWER VENTURES, INC., a Cayman Island corporation, Defendants, and STEVEN SURAJ VACHANI, an individual, Defendant-Appellant. |url=https://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2016/07/12/13-17102.pdf |format=PDF}}</ref>

The key difference is ownership and scope: Reverse engineering stays within the boundary of what you own. Hacking crosses into systems that you don't.

Hacking, in most cases, ''involves'' doing reverse engineering. Companies usually use this to mislead ill-informed people into believing both are illegal hacking. Reverse engineering alone is ''not'' hacking.

==Current DMCA exemptions (2024-2027)==
The Library of Congress granted sweeping new exemptions in October 2024 that greatly expanded repair rights:<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/10/28/2024-24563/exemption-to-prohibition-on-circumvention-of-copyright-protection-systems-for-access-control |title=Exemption to Prohibition on Circumvention of Copyright Protection Systems for Access Control Technologies |website=Federal Register |date=28 Oct 2024}}</ref>

*'''Vehicle telematics data''': Owners can now circumvent software locks to access, store, and share their vehicle's operations and diagnostic data.
*'''Commercial Food Preparation Equipment:''' New Exemption for Retail-Level Restaurant Equipment Repair (Addressing the McDonald's Ice Cream Machine Problem'').''<ref>{{Cite news |last=Bowman |first=Emma |date=3 Nov 2024 |title=A new copyright rule lets McDonald's fix its own broken ice cream machines |url=https://www.npr.org/2024/11/02/g-s1-31893/mcdonalds-broken-ice-cream-machine-copyright-law |work=NPR}}</ref>
*'''Consumer devices''': Renewed exemptions for smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and IoT devices.
*'''Medical devices''': Continued exemption with FDA support, concluding that, contrary to claims otherwise, it wouldn't "necessarily and materially jeopardize" device safety.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://iamers.org/2024/07/fda-issues-letter-supporting-continuation-of-dmca-exemption-for-repair-of-medical-devices/ |title=FDA issues letter supporting continuation of DMCA exemption for repair of medical devices |publisher=IAMERS |date=July 2024}}</ref>
*'''Jailbreaking''': Expanded to cover smartphones, smart TVs, voice assistants, and routers for installing alternative software.

These exemptions require that circumvention be a ''"necessary step"'' for the permitted purpose and cannot be used to facilitate access to other copyrighted works.

==Reverse engineering in the European Union==

===Introduction and overview===
European law tends to subjectively favor the ''Reverse Engineer'' (RE), including in situations such as "'''observe, study or test the functioning of the program''', provided that those acts '''do not infringe the copyright in the program'''"<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=23 Apr 2009 |title=Directive 2009/24/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 April 2009 on the legal protection of computer programs (Codified version) (Text with EEA relevance) |url=https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2009/24/oj/eng |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250721222533/https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2009/24/oj/eng |archive-date=21 Jul 2025}}</ref>, while going as far as "'''Decompilation for Interoperability'''"<ref name=":0" /> and "'''Decompilation for Error Correction and Repair'''".<ref name=":0" /> A strong emphasis is placed on the intention and the desired outcome of the reverse engineering process.

While this is the general E.U. law, each country has it's own interpretation on it, the Directive being more of a guideline. For a safer approach, it is advised to carefully check the local legislation. Often times challenges come from the "legal speech" being difficult to understand by untrained personnel. {{Wplink|Large language model|Large Language Models}}<ref>{{Cite web |title=Large Language Model |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Large_language_model |url-status=live |website=Wikipedia}}</ref> (LLMs) could aid the legal research process, the bigger cloud-based LLMs often performing the best, double-checking the information is mandatory.

===Guidelines for safer reverse engineering===
To better understand the position a RE would find themselves into, it is recommended to try and understand where the manufacturer is acting upon their product. We can briefly categorize the potential infringement on three levels:

*Hardware
*Software
*Hardware + Software

Each one of these has its own technical challenges and will most likely be treated differently in the court of law.

====Full solutions====
The solutions are usually not complete, as the manufacturer has the most control over your product, regardless of its nature. Almost complete solutions are a more likely term, as most actions are rather reactive than proactive, because the consumer will first be hit by the overreach and then react to it.

====Partial solutions====

===Legal precedents===

==Narrowing computer hacking laws==
The Supreme Court's 2021 decision in '''Van Buren v. United States''' fundamentally changed how courts interpret the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA).<ref>{{Cite web |title=VAN BUREN v. UNITED STATES CERTIORARI TO THE UNITED STATES COURT OF APPEALS FOR THE ELEVENTH CIRCUIT No. 19–783. Argued November 30, 2020—Decided June 3, 2021 |url=https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/20pdf/19-783_k53l.pdf |format=PDF}}</ref> The 6-3 majority adopted a "gates-up-or-down" test: you either have permission to access a computer system or you don't. Violating terms of service or using legitimately accessed data for improper purposes doesn't constitute ''"exceeding authorized access"'' under CFAA.

This decision protects security researchers and reverse engineers who:
*Access publicly available systems
*Use credentials they were legitimately given
*Don't bypass technical access controls
*Violate only terms of service, not technical barriers

The Ninth Circuit applied this framework in '''hiQ Labs v. LinkedIn''' (2022), finding that scraping publicly accessible data doesn't violate CFAA since there are ''"no gates to lift or lower"'' on public websites.<ref>{{Cite web |title=HIQ LABS, INC. V. LINKEDIN CORPORATION, No. 17-16783 (9th Cir. 2022) |url=https://law.justia.com/cases/federal/appellate-courts/ca9/17-16783/17-16783-2022-04-18.html}}</ref>

==Futurehome example==
In May 2025, Norwegian smart home company Futurehome emerged from bankruptcy. The new owners, FHSD Connect AS, introduced a mandatory subscription model: Customers had to pay an annual fee of 1,188 NOK (approx. $117 USD) or lose access to basic functionality like the mobile app, automation, and local APIs - even though those features were previously included in the one-time purchase price.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.tek.no/nyheter/nyhet/i/alMe04/rasende-kunder-opplever-smarthjem-utpressing |title=Rasende og fortvilte Futurehome-kunder: – Oppleves som utpressing |website=Tek.no |access-date=14 Jul 2025 |language=nb}}</ref>

When customers began exploring ways to restore lost functionality through reverse engineering, Futurehome CEO Øyvind Fries accused them of ''"illegal hacking"'' and threatened legal action.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.tek.no/nyheter/nyhet/i/mPm4xl/lover-50000-kroner-for-aa-gjore-futurehome-gratis |title=Lover 50.000 kroner for å knekke programvaren til Futurehome |website=Tek.no |access-date=14 Jul 2025 |language=nb}}</ref>

However, no evidence was provided that users were:
*Accessing Futurehome's servers without authorization
*Distributing proprietary code
*Compromising the privacy of others

Consumer rights advocate Louis Rossmann offered a $5,000 bounty for someone to devise a method for using Futurehome devices locally without a subscription. His viewers began:
*Capturing network traffic from their own devices
*Analyzing firmware dumps from hubs they physically owned
*Attempting to restore functionality that had been removed post-sale
The purpose was to restore functionality customers had already paid for. Futurehome's management tried to frame this as a bounty for criminal activity.

==Other examples with legal clarity==
*'''John Deere Tractors''': Deere has long fought independent repair efforts, but under pressure from state laws and exemptions granted by the Library of Congress, some tractor repair activities (such as accessing diagnostic software) are now explicitly legal.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.repair.org/stand-up-for-repair |title=Stand Up for Repair |publisher=Repair.org}}</ref> The FTC and state attorneys general sued John Deere in January 2025 for allegedly monopolizing the agricultural equipment repair market.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.npr.org/2025/01/15/nx-s1-5260895/john-deere-ftc-lawsuit-right-to-repair-tractors |title=FTC sues John Deere over farmers' right to repair tractors |publisher=NPR |date=15 Jan 2025}}</ref>

*'''Sony PlayStation 3''' jailbreaking: Sony sued George Hotz (Geohot) after he jailbroke a PS3. While Sony sued him civilly, the case settled without establishing that his actions were criminal.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Sony and Hotz settle hacking case |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-13047725}}</ref>

*'''Lexmark Printers''': As mentioned above, the Sixth Circuit ruled that making third-party toner cartridges compatible with Lexmark printers, despite digital locks, was not illegal.<ref name="lexmark" />

*'''United States v. Elcom/Sklyarov''' (2001-2002): Although Russian programmer Dmitry Sklyarov was arrested for creating Adobe eBook circumvention software, charges were dropped against him personally, and his company, ElcomSoft, was acquitted, demonstrating the risks of prosecutorial overreach.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.eff.org/cases/us-v-elcomsoft-sklyarov |title=US v. ElcomSoft & Sklyarov |website=Electronic Frontier Foundation}}</ref>

=="Illegal Hacking" as a legal conclusion==
Using words like "hacking" to describe legitimate reverse engineering is not a legal conclusion. Section 1201 of the DMCA is written in a way that can make even normal ownership behavior sound suspicious. Courts have repeatedly ruled that '''reverse engineering, when done for lawful purposes, is protected'''.

==Key legal principles==
Courts now apply clear principles distinguishing lawful reverse engineering from illegal hacking:

'''Protected activities include:'''
*Lawfully acquiring software or hardware
*Analyzing it without circumventing authentication
*Conducting interoperability research under DMCA Section 1201(f)
*Accessing publicly available information
*Good faith security research with responsible disclosure

'''Risk Factors for CFAA/DMCA Liability:'''
*Bypassing passwords or authentication systems
*Continuing access after explicit revocation
*Accessing non-public systems
*Causing system damage
*Commercial exploitation of circumvention tools

The distinction often turns on technical circumvention - courts protect analytical activities that don't breach access controls while penalizing those who bypass passwords, authentication, or security measures.

==Conclusion==
Reverse engineering should not be a crime. Owning a product should mean having control over it. Efforts to restore, understand, or interoperate with devices you have legally purchased are not "hacking" - they are a cornerstone of innovation, user freedom, and the right to repair.

The legal landscape has evolved dramatically through decisions like '''Google v. Oracle''' (2021), which affirmed API re-implementation as fair use.<ref>{{Cite web |title=GOOGLE LLC v. ORACLE AMERICA, INC. CERTIORARI TO THE UNITED STATES COURT OF APPEALS FOR THE FEDERAL CIRCUIT No. 18–956. Argued October 7, 2020—Decided April 5, 2021 |url=https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/20pdf/18-956_d18f.pdf}}</ref>

The October 2024 DMCA exemptions represent the largest expansion of repair rights to date. Combined with Van Buren's limitation of CFAA liability, these create lots of legal space for legitimate reverse engineering to be considered legal.

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:Common terms]]

Discord

2025-12-12T18:11:39Z

ClippyFellow47: Minor grammar edits to improve tone.

{{ToneWarning}}

'''Discord''' is a proprietary VoIP and instant-messaging platform developed by Discord Inc. (formerly Hammer & Chisel, Inc.), co-founded by Jason Citron and Stanislav Vishnevskiy.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gonzalez |first=Guadalupe |date=3 May 2018 |title=There Are 2.6 Billion Online Gamers in the World. This Startup Just May Connect Them All |url=https://www.inc.com/guadalupe-gonzalez/30-under-30-2018-discord.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180503131556/https://www.inc.com/guadalupe-gonzalez/30-under-30-2018-discord.html |archive-date=3 May 2018 |access-date=13 Jul 2025 |website=Inc.}}</ref> Launched in 2015, the service has grown to over 150 million monthly active users as of 2025. While initially marketed towards PC gamers, Discord has expanded to multiple platforms, serving various communities and use cases, including education.<ref name="about-company">{{Cite web |date=15 Apr 2024 |title=About Discord <nowiki>|</nowiki> Our Mission and Values |url=https://discord.com/company/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250608013037/https://discord.com/company |archive-date=8 Jun 2025 |access-date=13 Jul 2025 |website=Discord}}</ref>

In April 2025, Humam Sakhnini (formerly King, Activision Blizzard) replaced Jason Citron as CEO.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Discord Appoints Humam Sakhnini as Chief Executive Officer |url=https://discord.com/press-releases/discord-appoints-new-ceo-humam-sakhnini}}</ref> {{InfoboxCompany
| Name = Discord Inc.
| Type = Private
| Founded = 2015
| Industry = Software
| Official Website = https://discord.com
| Logo = Discord.svg
}}

==Consumer Impact Summary==

===Privacy<ref name="terms-of-service3">[https://discord.com/terms/ "Discord's Terms of Service"]. April 15, 2024. ''Discord''. Retrieved January 16, 2025.</ref>===
Mentioned within the '''Discord ToS<ref name="terms-of-service3" />''' and '''Privacy Policy''':<ref name="privacy-policy3">[https://discord.com/privacy/ "Discord Privacy Policy"]. April 15, 2024. ''Discord''. Retrieved January 16, 2025.</ref><ref name="community-guidelines2">[https://discord.com/guidelines/ "Discord Community Guidelines"]. April 15, 2024. ''Discord''. Retrieved January 16, 2025.</ref>
*Collects extensive user data, including messages, voice communications, and server participation.
*Claims broad rights to user-generated content.
*Deleted messages are stored for undefined periods.
*Retains personal information until deemed "no longer needed".
*Processes user content for "safety features and platform improvement".
*Shares data with related companies, vendors, and third-party service providers.
*Opt-out behavioral tracking across platform features for personalization.
*Maintains logs of IP addresses and device information for an undetermined amount of time, flags any user who has ever signed in with an EU IP address for inclusion within DSA transparency reports
*Sends a web request when any UI element is clicked & when typing
In 2019, Discord started randomly requiring phone verifications. The account will be locked until a phone number is added, regardless of account age or recent activity. The account will be automatically locked if the phone number is removed.<ref>[https://archive.today/2022.10.28-141642/https://wowana.me/blog/guess-im-done-with-discord.xht guess I'm done with Discord – wowana.me]</ref><ref>[https://archive.today/2025.08.31-190346/https://cadence.moe/blog/2020-06-06-why-you-shouldnt-trust-discord Why you shouldn't trust Discord - cadence's weblog (personal blog)]</ref>

===Freedom===
Mentioned within the '''Discord ToS<ref name="terms-of-service3" />''' and '''Privacy Policy''':<ref name="privacy-policy3" />
*Mandatory [[Forced arbitration|binding arbitration]] with [[class action|class-action]] waiver for U.S. users (Started 19 October 2018).
*Users grant a perpetual, transferable license to their content.
*Users must accept the broad terms of service, which allow for unilateral changes.
*Accounts can be terminated without prior notice at Discord's discretion.

*No option to opt out of core data collection while using the service.
*Content may be retained by Discord even after deletion.
*Server owners have limited recourse if their servers are banned.
*Forced to use Discord's payment processing for all monetary transactions.

===Transparency===
Discord's terms of service are lengthy and complex. In October 2025, the base terms are 29 pages, with a reading level of 14th grade (Junior in college) and an estimated reading time of 42 minutes.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Calculated using readabilitychecker.com based on current discord TOS. discord.com/terms |url=https://readabilitychecker.com/url |access-date=9 Oct 2025}}</ref> The 2021 version of Discord's ToS would take an estimated 275+ hours to read.<ref>{{Cite web |title=EULA of despair |url=https://www.pilotlab.org/eulas-of-despair |access-date=9 Oct 2025 |website=Penn State University Pilot Lab}}</ref>

Mentioned within the '''Discord Privacy Policy'''<ref name="privacy-policy3" /> and '''Community Guidelines''':<ref name="community-guidelines2" />
*Unclear processes for handling law enforcement requests.
*Vague about specific data retention time frames.
*Limited transparency regarding content moderation decisions.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=BBB - Discord, Inc. |url=https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/san-francisco/profile/computer-software/discord-inc-1116-918699 |access-date=Aug 2, 2025 |website=Better Business Bureau}}</ref><ref name=":1">{{Cite web |title=Trustpilot - Discord |url=https://www.trustpilot.com/review/discord.com |access-date=Aug 2, 2025 |website=Trustpilot}}</ref>
**In some instances, the offending content is not displayed to the user, nor is any metadata, filenames, timestamps, or even the originating channel shown.
**No limits or restrictions on the age of content (e.g., users can be suspended due to something sent 1500 days ago)
*Server ban appeals process lacks transparency.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" />
*Limited disclosure of recommendation algorithm factors.
*There is no clear disclosure of how the content is used for platform improvement.
==Incidents==
===Introduction of forced arbitration (Oct. 2018)===
In October 2018, [[forced arbitration]] was added to the [[Terms of Service|terms of service]]. Users could opt out by sending an 'opt-out notice' to arbitration-opt-out@discord.com within 90 days of the ToS going in effect or registering their first account.'''<ref name="terms-of-service3" />'''

===Child safety concerns (June 2023)===
An [[wikipedia:NBC News|NBC News]] investigation in June 2023 uncovered widespread child safety issues on Discord, revealing systemic problems with the platform's user protection measures.

Investigators identified 35 separate cases where adults were criminally charged with "kidnapping, grooming, or sexual assault" involving contacts initiated through Discord. Additionally, 165 criminal prosecutions involving the sharing of child sexual exploitation material (CSAM) on the platform were documented.<ref><templatestyles src="Module:Citation/CS1/styles.css"></templatestyles><cite id="CITEREFGoggin2023" class="citation web cs1">Goggin, Ben (21 Jun 2023). [https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/social-media/discord-child-safety-social-platform-challenges-rcna89769 "Child predators are using Discord, a popular app among teens, for sextortion and abductions"]. ''NBC News''. [https://web.archive.org/web/20230621152318/https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/social-media/discord-child-safety-social-platform-challenges-rcna89769 Archived] from the original on 21 Jun 2023. Retrieved 13 Jul 2025.</cite><span title="ctx_ver=Z39.88-2004&rft_val_fmt=info%3Aofi%2Ffmt%3Akev%3Amtx%3Ajournal&rft.genre=unknown&rft.jtitle=NBC+News&rft.atitle=Child+predators+are+using+Discord%2C+a+popular+app+among+teens%2C+for+sextortion+and+abductions&rft.date=2023-06-21&rft.aulast=Goggin&rft.aufirst=Ben&rft_id=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nbcnews.com%2Ftech%2Fsocial-media%2Fdiscord-child-safety-social-platform-challenges-rcna89769&rfr_id=info%3Asid%2Fconsumerrights.wiki%3ADiscord" class="Z3988"></ref>

===FTC data collection investigation (Sept. 2024)===
In September 2024, the [[Federal Trade Commission]] (FTC) released a comprehensive report examining Discord's data collection practices as part of a broader investigation into the data collection practices of social media platforms.<ref><templatestyles src="Module:Citation/CS1/styles.css"></templatestyles><cite class="citation web cs1">[https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/Social-Media-6b-Report-9-11-2024.pdf "A Look Behind the Screens: Examining the Data Practices of Social Media and Video Streaming Services"] (PDF). ''Federal Trade Commission''. 11 Sep 2024. [https://web.archive.org/web/20240919133855/https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/Social-Media-6b-Report-9-11-2024.pdf Archived] (PDF) from the original on 19 Sep 2024. Retrieved 13 Jul 2025.</cite><span title="ctx_ver=Z39.88-2004&rft_val_fmt=info%3Aofi%2Ffmt%3Akev%3Amtx%3Ajournal&rft.genre=unknown&rft.jtitle=Federal+Trade+Commission&rft.atitle=A+Look+Behind+the+Screens%3A+Examining+the+Data+Practices+of+Social+Media+and+Video+Streaming+Services&rft.date=2024-09-11&rft_id=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ftc.gov%2Fsystem%2Ffiles%2Fftc_gov%2Fpdf%2FSocial-Media-6b-Report-9-11-2024.pdf&rfr_id=info%3Asid%2Fconsumerrights.wiki%3ADiscord" class="Z3988"></ref>

The investigation revealed Discord collects extensive user data, including:
*Message content and metadata
*Voice-chat participation
*Server membership and activity
*Device and location information
Particular concern was raised about:
*[https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-16/chapter-I/subchapter-C/part-312 Collection of data from users under 13]
*Handling of minors' user information
*Inadequate age-verification systems
The FTC identified multiple areas where Discord's practices put users at risk:
*Identity theft exposure
*Potential stalking risks
*Discrimination concerns
*Mental health and emotional impact

The FTC concluded that Discord's data practices posed unacceptable risks to users, particularly minors, and recommended significant reforms to the platform's privacy protection measures.<ref><templatestyles src="Module:Citation/CS1/styles.css"></templatestyles><cite id="CITEREFTolentino2024" class="citation web cs1">Tolentino, Daysia (19 Sep 2024). [https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/security/social-media-companies-engaged-vast-surveillance-ftc-finds-calling-sta-rcna171814 "Social media companies engaged in 'vast surveillance,' FTC finds, calling status quo 'unacceptable'"]. ''NBC News''. [https://web.archive.org/web/20240919171049/https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/security/social-media-companies-engaged-vast-surveillance-ftc-finds-calling-sta-rcna171814 Archived] from the original on 19 Sep 2024. Retrieved 13 Jul 2025.</cite><span title="ctx_ver=Z39.88-2004&rft_val_fmt=info%3Aofi%2Ffmt%3Akev%3Amtx%3Ajournal&rft.genre=unknown&rft.jtitle=NBC+News&rft.atitle=Social+media+companies+engaged+in+%27vast+surveillance%2C%27+FTC+finds%2C+calling+status+quo+%27unacceptable%27&rft.date=2024-09-19&rft.aulast=Tolentino&rft.aufirst=Daysia&rft_id=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nbcnews.com%2Ftech%2Fsecurity%2Fsocial-media-companies-engaged-vast-surveillance-ftc-finds-calling-sta-rcna171814&rfr_id=info%3Asid%2Fconsumerrights.wiki%3ADiscord" class="Z3988"></ref>

===Reinforcement of forced arbitration (Sept. 2025)===
Announced August 29th, 2025, and put into effect September 29th, 2025, Discord updated and re-iterated their [[forced arbitration]] clause but gave users another option to opt-out of forced arbitration until October 29th, 2025, for existing accounts, or 30 days after initial agreement for new accounts.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-09-29 |title=Discord's Terms of Service |url=https://discord.com/terms#16 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251007023150/https://discord.com/terms#16 |archive-date=2025-10-07 |access-date=2025-10-07 |website=Discord.com}}</ref> Users are automatically opted into the forced arbitration clause unless they take specific action to opt out of it within 30 days. Instead, if users chose to delete their accounts, the platform required them to accept the terms in order to access their account, from which they could then delete it, making acceptance of the new terms mandatory.
[[File:Discord Forced Arbitration 1.png|alt=An example of Discord forcing users to agree to arbitration if they want to continue using the application.|thumb|(2025-09-29) An example of Discord forcing users to agree to arbitration if they want to continue using the application. The terms of service at the time of this screenshot includes forced arbitration and disallows users from filing a class-action lawsuit.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Discord |date=2025-09-29 |title=Terms of Service {{!}} Discord |url=https://discord.com/terms |url-status=live |access-date=2025-09-29 |website=Discord}}</ref>]]

===Third-Party Customer Service Data Breach (Oct. 2025)===
In October 2025, Discord issued a press release announcing a "Security Incident Involving Third-Party Customer Service [5CA]", in which "the unauthorized party [...] gained access to a small number of government‑ID images (e.g., driver’s license, passport) from users who had appealed an age determination", as well as other personal data provided to support.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |date=2025-10-03 |title=Update on a Security Incident Involving Third-Party Customer Service |url=https://discord.com/press-releases/update-on-security-incident-involving-third-party-customer-service |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251006163040/https://discord.com/press-releases/update-on-security-incident-involving-third-party-customer-service |archive-date=2025-10-06 |access-date=2025-10-07 |website=Discord}}</ref> The number of ID images accessed was approximately 70,000, and the third-party in question was later named as 5CA.<ref name=":2" /> The hackers involved in the breach have revealed that the data was accessed via Zendesk.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hunt |first=Troy |date=2025-10-04 |title=X |url=https://x.com/troyhunt/status/1974558088847102289}}</ref>
===Inactive account deletions===
Discord has a [[Inactive account deletion|deletion policy on inactive accounts]], in which accounts that are not used for 2 years or more may be scheduled for deletion. Before the deletion of an inactive account, users may receive an email or text message warning that their account is scheduled for deletion. Such policies could adversely affect those who had good reasons to become inactive for a long time, such as hospitalization, prison incarceration, and being in totalitarian countries that have prolonged internet shutdowns. <ref>https://support.discord.com/hc/en-us/articles/5106714856215-Inactive-Account-Deletion</ref>

===Vague moderation===
{{Main|Discord's irresponsible moderation}}
Reported often by users on the BBB<ref name=":0" />, Trustpilot <ref name=":1" />, and a dedicated subreddit<ref>{{Cite web |title=/r/BannedFromDiscord |url=https://old.reddit.com/r/BannedFromDiscord/}}</ref>, users have complained that Discord's moderation is vague. One such user reported that their account was banned after being compromised on the BBB, with an automated system handling the entire process, replying only with templates, and with no human involvement<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mir |first=Zain |date=Jul 23, 2025 |title=BBB Complaint |url=https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/san-francisco/profile/computer-software/discord-inc-1116-918699/complaints?page=2#1116_918699_23643523 |access-date=Aug 1, 2025 |website=Better Business Bureau}}</ref> with an automated system handling the entire process, replying only with templates, with no human involved in the appeal process.

==Solution to delete an account without agreeing to the updated ToS==

*Visit [https://support.discord.com/hc/en-us/articles/212500837-How-to-Delete-your-Discord-Account How to delete Discord account] and scroll to "Having Trouble Deleting Your Discord Account?" Find the link titled "Reach out to our support team". Direct link subject to user instance - http://dis.gd/support

*Fill out the "Submit a request" form. (A web search for "Submit a request Discord" may help users find the form. Be sure to answer the question "What can we help you with?" with "Help and Support" from the drop-down.) '''Please fill out the form using the same email address associated with your Discord account, as this process may need to be restarted if it is not.''' In the form, under "Type of question," there is an option for "Account deletion request". Proceed to fill out and submit the form with any other relevant information. An email will then be sent with further instructions, including how to proceed with account deletion, which involves responding to the email with "I confirm that I would like to delete the account associated with [user email]." '''The response must be received from the same email as the one associated with the Discord account.'''

[[File:Discord Vague Infringement example.png|thumb|An example of how Discord handles its moderation from a user's perspective.]]

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:Discord]]
[[Category:Forced arbitration]]

Toyota

2025-12-12T18:02:24Z

ClippyFellow47: Minor grammar edits to improve tone, article still requires significan work.

ManyCam

2025-12-12T17:59:16Z

ClippyFellow47: Minor grammar edits to improve tone, article formatting might need to be fixed.

{{ToneWarning}}

{{InfoboxProductLine
| Title = ManyCam
| Release Year = 2024
| Product Type = Software
| In Production = Yes
| Official Website = https://manycam.com/
| Logo = Manycam.png
}}

'''ManyCam''' is a live video-streaming software application owned by [[Paltalk]], formerly known as [[AVM Software]]. ManyCam.com describes the application as:
<blockquote>
" .. an easy-to-use virtual camera and live streaming software that helps you deliver professional live videos on streaming platforms, video conferencing apps, and remote learning tools."
</blockquote>

==Revocation of lifetime licenses==
In the summer of 2022, Paltalk [[Retroactively amended purchase|retroactively amended]] the purchase of its ManyCam software, blocking "Lifetime" subscribers from updating to the newest version, leaving them without access to the software they had already purchased.

Prior to ManyCam's acquisition by Paltalk in 2022, ManyCam offered lifetime licenses, which were advertised as including all future versions and upgrades for a one-time payment, a fact made evident by the statements on the ManyCam website, up until March 2022, that <q>Any paid ManyCam Lifetime subscription allows you to upgrade the ManyCam software for free whenever a newer version of ManyCam is released</q> and that <q>ManyCam Lifetime subscription plans are a one-time payment, no renewal or other fees included.</q><ref name="ManyCam Knowledge Base: Will I get all future versions and updates of ManyCam for free?"> [https://web.archive.org/web/20220317113659/https://help.manycam.com/knowledge-base/manycam-devices-video-sources/ "ManyCam Knowledge Base: Will I get all future versions and updates of ManyCam for free?"] manycam.com via The Internet Archive </ref>

After acquiring ManyCam in June 2022, Paltalk released an update for customers to upgrade to ManyCam 8.0.0, a version of the software for which the lifetime licenses did not work.<ref name="ManyCam Forum: Activation many cam 8 and many cam lite - 2022-07-05"> [https://web.archive.org/web/20220705084722/https://forum.manycam.com/t/activation-many-cam-8-and-many-cam-lite/6448 "ManyCam Forum: Activation many cam 8 and many cam lite"] manycam.com via The Internet Archive on July 5th, 2022</ref>

[[File:ManyCam 7 Lifetime Studio notifies of updates by default.png|alt=A screenshot of ManyCam 7 with Lifetime Studio with default settings. The "Notify me about new ManyCam versions" setting is enabled by default.|thumb|A screenshot of ManyCam 7 Lifetime Studio with default settings. The "Notify me about new ManyCam versions" setting is enabled by default.]]
As ManyCam 7 was configured by default to notify users of any new versions available for upgrade under the "lifetime" license, many users followed the usual upgrade path to ManyCam 8 and were unable to activate their "lifetime" license as they had done previously.<ref name="ManyCam Forum: Activation many cam 8 and many cam lite - 2022-07-05" /> Presumably, this was not properly communicated to many customers, as many expressed surprise when their lifetime licenses stopped working as they had before.<ref name="ManyCam Forums: Don't Upgrade to ManyCam 8! - 2022-07-05">[https://web.archive.org/web/20220705095408/https://forum.manycam.com/t/dont-upgrade-to-manycam-8/6440 "ManyCam Forums: Don't Upgrade to ManyCam 8!"] forum.manycam.com via The Internet Archive on July 5th, 2022</ref>

On July 1, 2022, a "Guest Writer" who was posting under the guise of Visicom Media, the previous owner, made a blog post on the official ManyCam.com website:<ref name="ManyCam Blog: Update for ManyCam Lifetime Subscriptions">[https://web.archive.org/web/20230531011812/https://manycam.com/blog/update-for-manycam-lifetime-subscriptions/ "ManyCam Blog: Update for ManyCam Lifetime Subscriptions"] manycam.com via The Interner Archive</ref>

<blockquote>
"ManyCam is now under new ownership. The new owner does not offer Lifetime subscriptions. Some Lifetime customers have been concerned about their ability to use their subscription in the future. The intent was never to interfere with that ability of current Lifetime customers.
</blockquote>

Visicom Media stands by its Lifetime customers and will continue to support them by arranging a total of two years of free subscription with the new owner. This offer can be claimed in the ManyCam account on the webpage. At the user’s request, and upon the expiration of the two-year free subscription, Visicom Media will offer an upgrade to any current Lifetime customers who continue to need such access."
<nowiki>|width=80%|</nowiki>align=right|margin=0.5em}}

====Retroactive change to ManyCam FAQ Page====

After the release of the ManyCam 8.0.0 update, around June 18, 2022, Paltalk modified the ManyCam Knowledge Base webpage to change the stated terms regarding the ManyCam Lifetime subscription plans:<ref name="ManyCam Knowledge Base (Modified by Paltalk): Will I get all future versions and updates of ManyCam for free?">[https://web.archive.org/web/20220618021632/https://help.manycam.com/knowledge-base/manycam-devices-video-sources/ " Will I get all future versions and updates of ManyCam for free?"] manycam.com via The Internet Archive ''After being aquired by Patatalk'' </ref>

<blockquote>
'''ManyCam Lifetime subscription plans'''

Any paid 'ManyCam 7' Lifetime subscription allows you to upgrade the 'ManyCam 7' software for free whenever a newer version of 'ManyCam 7' is released, i.e. with 'ManyCam 7 Lifetime', you will get lifetime access to all future versions and updates of the 'ManyCam 7' application for free, which includes access to the paid 'ManyCam 7' features available in your subscription plan (Standard, Studio, Premium, Enterprise, Education). 'ManyCam 7 Lifetime' subscription plans are a one-time payment, no renewal or other fees included.
</blockquote>

This change replaced "ManyCam" with "ManyCam 7". Thus, their statement effectively made no promises of any upgrades, because ManyCam 8 had already been released, and Paltalk was no longer developing new versions of ManyCam 7.

==Customer reaction==
Following Paltalk's acquisition of ManyCam, many customers shared their experiences and complaints on both personal websites and the official ManyCam forums.

One user created a post on their personal web blog, describing the situation:<ref name="Amazing CTO (Blog): ManyCam dishonored my lifetime license">[https://web.archive.org/web/20230413205720/https://www.amazingcto.com/beware-manycam-licensing-pricing/ "ManyCam dishonored my lifetime license"] amazingcto.com via The Internet Archive</ref>

<blockquote>
How one day I've learned that lifetime license doesn't mean lifetime

I wanted to talk about customer relations and how to have a successful startup. And what not to do.

Let’s start with a story. I’ve bought a Premium Lifetime license from ManyCam. ManyCam is a software that does several things, I needed it to be able to use a webcam in two applications at the same time. One year after I’ve bought the Lifetime license, they released a new version and my Lifetime license effectively stopped working.

“ManyCam is now under new ownership. […] Visicom Media stands by the Lifetime customers and will continue to support them by arranging with the new owner for a total of two years of free subscription." Standing by the lifetime customer by offering two years and dishonoring the lifetime license? I call that a “Weasel License” not a “Lifetime Premium License” as the lifetime of a weasel is two years (Can you believe that? I didn’t know either).

There is the saying that a happy customer doesn’t talk, but an unhappy customer spreads their bad experience to ten people. The person you’ve sold the lifetime license to will probably never update, because they hate you, there is no money in it for you anymore from that customer except you can hold them hostage. In this case even more sinister, offering a free subscription to get you on the subscription bandwagon - screw you twice. But I chose a one time lifetime license exactly because I don’t want a subscription. So trying to get me on a subscription doesn’t make any sense at all. In the end money for you but the downside of an unhappy customer running around, telling their story.

I do understand the constraints of a business, and sometimes you need money right now, so you want to get all your future income from a customer and offer a lifetime license. I also understand selling a business and the new owner has new priorities (the reason I tell all my CTO coaches they need everything in writing from their boss in their contract, a new boss will probably only honor what is written down, not spoken promises). I understand the reason for the lifetime license might be to increase sales numbers before you sell the business. But then you should honor that deal and let the customer use your software for a lifetime, and not make it stop working after a year. You can argue it’s a new release, and lifetime was only for the old software. If you keep lifetime bug fixes coming and all the features working for the old software, this might be fine but still feels dishonest (they didn’t answer my question of how long my version would be supported with bug fixes - especially as it crashes rather often). And I’d argue from a software developer point of view it’s easier to let the customer use the newest software than updating and fixing older version for “Lifetime”, especially if you have a complete rewrite.

[…]

Coming back to customers. Do you invest in extracting short term money from customers? Or do you invest in long term relations. In the case of ManyCam they could have sold me add-ons that feel like they are worth it. By honoring the lifetime license the likelihood of me buying from them increases. It is the same as from the detour. In the beginning it’s about getting traction, then about getting money. And then the key to growth is retention. If you want to grow your customer base, the first thing is to prevent customers leaving. If you fill water in a bucket with a hole - something I’ve seen in to many startups on how they use marketing without product market fit - then after some time the bucket is empty when you stop pouring. So don’t make your customers run away.
</blockquote>

As evident from these posts, many customers were unhappy about being placed in the situation that Paltalk put them in and felt that Paltalk was being dishonest because their actions constituted a classic [[bait and switch|bait-and-switch]] tactic. Other users agreed with this assessment, saying that they were "disgusted":<ref name="ManyCam Forums: Lifetime Sub no longer valid">[https://web.archive.org/web/20231024221248/https://forum.manycam.com/t/lifetime-sub-no-longer-valid-manycam-8/6456 "ManyCam Forums: Lifetime Sub no longer valid"] forum.manycam.com via The Internet Archive</ref>

<blockquote>
[USERNAME REDACTED] June 15, 2022, 4:56pm

So, after using the beta for a while now, suddenly it tells me that my lifetime sub isnt valid for ManyCam 8 or higher.

There is no longer any lifetime pricing listed on their site.

They’ve basically sold lifetime subscriptions and spontaneously stopped supporting them in releases going forward.

Bait & Switch trash move. I’m disgusted.

</blockquote>

Other customers were thankful that people in the ManyCam online forums had posted their experiences to warn against upgrading.<ref name="ManyCam Forums: Don't Upgrade to ManyCam 8! - 2022-07-05"></ref>

<blockquote>|quote=[USERNAME REDACTED] June 21, 2022, 5:44pm

<nowiki>I just want to say, I came to the forums after seeing the option to pay was Annual or 2 years and I appreciate all the posts warning me against the newest upgrade. Looks like ManyCam ha[s] [sic] fallen victim to subscription greed. Disappointing, but good luck to them I guess. I’m going to a competitor where I can just buy the software, forced subscriptions are the refuge of the lazy. I’m not saying developers shouldn’t be paid, on the contrary, I WANT to pay them, but I’m not willing to be a steady stream of income for, lets be honest, slow innovation and perpetually out of date UI design. It was a good run though. 🫡
}}</nowiki>

At least one customer was evaluating ManyCam as a candidate for purchasing software licenses for their employees. However, they removed ManyCam from their software candidate list citing Paltalk's deceptive act of changing the "lifetime" license terms to only apply to ManyCam version 7.x.<ref name="ManyCam Forums: Don't Upgrade to ManyCam 8! - 2022-07-05"></ref>

<blockquote>|quote=[USERNAME REDACTED] June 21, 2022, 8:26pm #41

I think they take us for idiots, and hope we’ll all accept that ‘lifetime’ only referred to the lifetime of version 7,x, or not notice, or something.

<nowiki>I’ve already had ManyCam removed from a proof of concept candidate list at work on the basis that the company is no longer trustworthy
}}</nowiki>

Another customer who purchased the "lifetime" license noticed that the new version of "''ManyCam Lite''" had also been updated to put a feature gate on the high resolutions, which now required the new paid subscription.<ref name="ManyCam Forums: Don't Upgrade to ManyCam 8! - 2022-07-05"></ref>

<blockquote>|quote=[USERNAME REDACTED] June 22, 2022, 4:05pm #42

FYI - those who bought “Lifetime” - strongly suggest you do NOT get the newer ManyCam Lite.

They’ve gated high resolutions behind the new subscription.

So while yes, it will at least “run”, it’s been nerfed.

[[File:Manycam Screenshot- Feature Gated High Resolutions.png|alt=A screenshot of ManyCam Lite after the update, showing the newly locked (feature gated) high resolutions. |thumb|A screenshot of ManyCam Lite after the update, shows the newly locked (feature gated) high resolutions. Lifetime license holders were shown this screen in the app settings after the update.|none]]
<nowiki>}}</nowiki>

Yet another customer was upset about changes to the app which Paltalk made to advertise their other self-titled app, "Paltalk".<ref name="ManyCam Forums: Don't Upgrade to ManyCam 8! - 2022-07-05"></ref>

<blockquote>|quote=[USERNAME REDACTED] August 7, 2022, 10:59pm #54

<nowiki>To add insult to injury, when I restarted my mac today and opened Manycam, I had an ad pop-up for PalTalk (another app of theirs I gather). So, if the comments here are accurate, not only are they not honouring the terms of our lifetime subscriptions, they’re also advertising to us in-app?
}}</nowiki>

As evident from these forum posts, many paying customers were not pleased and driven away from ManyCam because of Paltalk's actions. Understandably, those paying customers were very unhappy when their "lifetime" license no longer worked, as it had for all other versions prior to ManyCam version 8. Customers noticed that the company had changed the terms of their lifetime licenses after they had purchased such licenses under the promises of free future upgrades. One customer related their experiences with previous upgrades to compare and contrast with the new situation and highlight their perception of the company's dishonest behavior:<ref name="ManyCam Forums: Lifetime Sub no longer valid"></ref>

<blockquote>
[USERNAME REDACTED] June 15, 2022, 7:55pm

MANYCAM 8 is a Rip Off-!!!

For all of us who have supported this company with a Premium Lifetime Subscription, of which I had purchased two, I feel very let down that my subscription of a ‘Premium Lifetime’ does not apply to version 8? Yet, for all the other versions up until v7 and its updates it applied. I cant work this one out. How can they charge for a Lifetime Subscription, which at the time included ALL FUTURE UPDATES, now not count with version 8.

Am I the only one who has fallen fowl of this Company? It seems they are Judge, Jury and Executioner when it comes to changing their policies, forgetting their loyal customers who paid good money for them to exist. If this is how they treat their loyal customers, just think what they must be like to work for! I pity their employees. If nothing else, ManyCam has FAILED to honour all customers who purchased a Premium Lifetime Subscription! Shame on you!!!
</blockquote>

Another customer agreed with the "AmazingCTO"'s assessment and proposal that Paltalk should honor their previous customers' Lifetime licenses by grandfathering them in:<ref name="ManyCam Forums: Lifetime Sub no longer valid"></ref>

<blockquote>
[USERNAME REDACTED] August 12, 2022, 9:35am

This is NOT the way you treat your customers.
The correct way would be to grandfather in Lifetime subscribers and let the new subscription model be for new users. Or AT LEAST give us a minimum of 10 year free use.

I have bought Studio Lifetime and upgraded to Premium Lifetime. And do not even get a full year of use before I need to convert to a subscription to continue to get updates?

I do believe my lifetime is more than ONE YEAR!!
</blockquote>

Indeed, as "AmazingCTO" and this user observed, most human beings would concur that a "lifetime" is a span of time much greater than one year. As such, these customers perceived Paltalk to be disingenuous by not honoring the "lifetime" license agreement.

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

Epic Games forces third party account creation in Rocket League

2025-12-11T19:54:09Z

ClippyFellow47: Minor grammar edits to improve tone

{{Incomplete|Issue 1=Needs more references and in-text citations.}}{{Tone}}
With the v2.48 patch on January 29th, 2025, Steam users wanting to play Rocket League were suddenly met with an error upon startup of the game, with the user being required to create an account with [[Epic Games, Inc.|Epic Games]] before being able to access the game they bought and paid for. This change was not mentioned in the patch notes and was done well after the game was moved from Steam to EGS in 2020.

==Background==
In 2015, Rocket League was released by the company Psyonix for all major platforms at the time. Being a sequel to the also popular SARPBC from 2008, the game became a major hit. In May of 2019, Psyonix would be acquired to undisclosed terms by Epic Games. This led to Rocket League being removed from Steam on September 23rd, 2020 (where it was [https://steamdb.info/app/252950/ 20$ at the time]) and going free to play on the Epic Games Store only. In 2020, support for the Linux and MacOS versions of the game was dropped, however, full refunds were offered. Players who bought the game on Steam were compensated with 3 in-game items, and since then, a system was in place allowing Steam users to keep playing without needing an Epic Games account.<ref>{{Cite web |title=ATTENTION STEAM USERS, you are forced to create an epic games account to play on steam |url=https://steamcommunity.com/app/252950/discussions/0/612032045420447780/ |access-date=18 September 2025 |website=Reddit}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Can't play the game - epic games login forced |url=https://steamcommunity.com/app/252950/discussions/0/612032045420447780/ |access-date=18 September 2025 |website=Steam}}</ref>

==Starting to require an account==
This changed on January 29th. As a part of the [https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/252950/view/527584837006001305?l=english v2.48 patch] made on January 29th, 2025, Steam users were now met with a network error upon launching the game, which forced users to make an account with Epic Games and accept their EULA and Privacy Policy. making this a case of [[post-purchase EULA modification]]. There was no option to continue playing online without making an Epic Games account. This incident has flown under the radar among most people, with only the [https://store.steampowered.com/app/252950/Rocket_League/#app_reviews_hash Steam reviews page] of the game experiencing an uptick in negative reviews.
==References==
{{reflist}}
[[Category:Epic Games]]
[[Category:Rocket League]]

Europe-based news sites enact consent-or-pay for data tracking

2025-12-11T15:16:43Z

ClippyFellow47: Minor grammar edits to improve tone

{{Stub}}
{{ToneWarning}}
The Mirror and The Independent are UK-based news sites that have recently implemented the [[consent-or-pay]] model, creating a binary choice where readers must either consent to cookies or pay to opt out of data tracking.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=15 August 2025 |title=The Mirror |url=https://www.mirror.co.uk/}}</ref><ref name=":1">{{Cite web |date=15 August 2025 |title=The Telegraph |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/}}</ref> This consent-or-pay model began rolling out on various websites when the UK and EU passed the [[General Data Protection Regulation|General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)]], which aims to protect internet users from data exploitation.

==Background==
After the [[GDPR]] passed in 2018, some companies responded to the regulation by implementing a consent-or-pay model, where users can either consent to data tracking via cookies or pay a small fee to opt out of all cookies. The purpose of the payment is to offset the loss of ad revenue per viewer.[[File:The Mirror Cookie Disclosure Notice.png|alt=The Mirror Cookie Disclosure Notice containing text "We have introduced these choices in accordance with data protection regulations."|thumb|The Mirror's cookie disclosure notice with the options of "I Agree" or "Reject and Pay."]]
==Consumer impact==
The consent-or-pay model violates the [[General Data Protection Regulation|GDPR]], and it also raises an ethical issue regarding privacy.<ref>{{Cite news |last= |first= |date=November 28, 2023 |title=Meta's 'Pay or Okay' Model: Legal and Ethical Implications for Publishers |url=https://www.uniconsent.com/blog/risks-of-pay-or-consent-models |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250427063707/https://www.uniconsent.com/blog/risks-of-pay-or-consent-models |archive-date=27 Apr 2025 |access-date=26 Aug 2025 |work=UniConsent}}</ref> The European Union at EDPB adopted this opinion following the requests of the Dutch, Norway, and Hamburg DPA's (Data Protection Authorities) regarding the consent or pay models deployed by large, popular platforms such as [[Facebook]] and other platforms.<ref>{{Cite web |date=17 April 2024 |title=EDPB: ‘Consent or Pay’ models should offer real choice |url=https://www.edpb.europa.eu/news/news/2024/edpb-consent-or-pay-models-should-offer-real-choice_en |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240726233856/https://www.edpb.europa.eu/news/news/2024/edpb-consent-or-pay-models-should-offer-real-choice_en |archive-date=26 Jul 2024 |access-date=26 Aug 2025 |website=European Data Protection Board (EU)}}</ref>

According to the UK's Information Commissioner's Office, consent is defined as “any freely given, specific, informed and unambiguous indication of the data subject’s wishes by which he or she, by a statement or by a clear affirmative action, signifies agreement to the processing of personal data relating to him or her.” 'Freely given' is later defined as giving people genuine choice over how their data is used, meaning they must be able to refuse consent without detriment, and must be able to withdraw consent easily at any time.<ref>{{Cite web |title=What is valid consent? |url=https://ico.org.uk/for-organisations/uk-gdpr-guidance-and-resources/lawful-basis/consent/what-is-valid-consent/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250716030925/https://ico.org.uk/for-organisations/uk-gdpr-guidance-and-resources/lawful-basis/consent/what-is-valid-consent/ |archive-date=2025-07-16 |access-date=2025-08-27 |website=ICO {{!}} Information Commissioner's Office}}</ref>[[File:News The Independent Today's headlines and latest breaking news.jpeg.png|thumb|The Independent’s cookie notice with the title "Privacy - it's your choice." The notice then gives viewers the option to either "pay to remove ads" or "accept" data collection for targeted ads.]]

==Uses==
News organizations across Europe, particularly in the UK and Germany, have enacted the consent-or-pay model for website visits. Meanwhile, users will see ads regardless of their monthly payment, but will be free of personalized ads generated from their personal data.
{| class="wikitable"
|+UK News Organizations and Cookie Rejection Fee
!News organization
!Website
!Monthly fee
|-
|The Mirror
|
|£1.99
|-
|The Independent
|
|£4
|-
|Mail Online
|
|£2.70
|-
|Express
|
|£1.99
|-
|Daily Mirror
|
|
|-
|The Sun
|
|£4.99
|-
|Reach
|
|£1.99
|}
In The Sun's frequently asked questions, they answer what Pay to Reject is with this explanation on their website:<blockquote>''"In response to recent enforcement action by the UK Information Commissioner against publishers, we have been forced to introduce new technology to ask our subscribers to consent to the advertising cookies that support our journalism, or pay a monthly fee that means we don’t need to use them."''<ref>{{Cite web |title=Advertising cookie consent settings |url=https://ptr.thesun.co.uk/ |website=The Sun}}</ref></blockquote>

The tech website "How-To-Geek" also demands payment to reject cookies https://www.howtogeek.com/

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

Games as a service

2025-12-11T01:59:02Z

ClippyFellow47: Minor grammar edits to improve tone

{{StubNotice}}{{ToneWarning}}
{{Main|Software as a service}}
'''[[wikipedia:Games_as_a_service|Games as a service]]''' (also known as live-service games) is a business model designed to monetize games after their initial sale or free download. It is typically through new updates, [[downloadable content]], and [[microtransaction]]s. This model exists in opposition to the traditional method of purchasing a game that can be used and played indefinitely, with no additional transactions required beyond the initial purchase.

A common practice in this model is allowing players to pre-purchase content with the promise that it will be released at a specified time and will include all features advertised in the product's listing. Games as a service also typically have a premium currency, which players purchase with real-world currency to acquire in-game items.

==Issues==
While GaaS incentivizes developers to keep producing content for their game, the game often risks becoming completely unplayable once support is discontinued.<ref>{{cite web|author=Accursed Farms|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w70Xc9CStoE|title=The largest campaign ever to stop publishers destroying games|website=YouTube|access-date=2025-01-24}}</ref> There is very little legal recourse for the user to recoup the cost of purchasing the game or its in-game content. The [[End-user license agreement|End-User License Agreement (EULA)]] typically disclaims the publisher's obligation to refund or compensate users, as it clarifies that they are purchasing a license rather than owning the software outright.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.kelleherbros.com/blog/2024/3/27/digital-ownership-2-the-eula-era|title=Precarious Digital Ownership: The EULA Era|website=kelleherbros.com|access-date=2025-01-28}}</ref>

Additionally, in some scenarios, content offered and even sold on GaaS may also be discontinued or revoked from consumers while the service continues.<ref name=":1">{{Cite news |last=Savage |first=Phil |date=Aug 23, 2020 |title=Here's everything being removed from Destiny 2 at the end of this season—it's a lot |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/heres-everything-being-removed-from-destiny-2-at-the-end-of-this-seasonits-a-lot/ |access-date=Mar 31, 2025 |work=PC Gamer}}</ref>

==Examples==

===Ubisoft===
{{Main|Ubisoft}}
XDefiant, developed by Ubisoft, is an example of a game-as-a-service. On December 3, 2024, the game announced the shutdown of its servers for June 3, 2025.<ref name=":0">[https://archive.is/ueESQ "'XDEFIANT IS SUNSETTING' Tweet"] - archive.is - archived 2025-01-28</ref> 49 days before the shutdown announcement, executive producer of XDefiant, Mark Rubin, posted online that the game had no plans to shut down after Season 4, despite being still in Season<ref>[https://archive.is/nEche "Mark Rubin Profile"] - archive.is - archived 2025-01-28</ref>, posted online that the game had no plans of shutting down after season 4, while the game was still in season 2, and they had recently discussed their plans internally for the second year of content.<ref>[https://archive.is/XmekP "Mark Rubin claims NO plans to shut down after season 4"] - archive.is - archived 2025-01-28</ref> The shutdown post announced that the last 30 days of purchases would be fully refunded.<ref name=":0" />

The shutdown of ''The Crew'' is one of the central issues of the [[Stop Killing Games]] campaign. Despite the game containing some code for an offline mode<ref>[https://steamcommunity.com/app/241560/discussions/0/3803901559414708777/ Offline Mode is in the game] steamcommunity.com - accessed 2025-02-06</ref> from the start, it was not made accessible to the user due to the game's [[Digital rights management|digital rights management]] (DRM) <ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2qKNY64-QSc The Crew Offline Mode - Setting The Record Straight] youtube.com - accessed 2025-01-28 </ref>, leaving the game in a completely unplayable state.

===EA===
{{Main|Electronic Arts}}
In recent years, Electronic Arts (often abbreviated as EA) has garnered a notorious reputation for being a company involved in these practices and has received criticism for its over-reliance on micro-transactions and DLC for generating revenue.

On July 3, 2025, EA announced that [[Anthem]], a game developed by BioWare and published by EA, will have its servers shut down on January 12, 2026.<ref name=":022">{{Cite web |date=2025-07-03 |title=Anthem Game Update |url=https://www.ea.com/games/anthem/news/anthem-game-update |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250704091220/https://www.ea.com/games/anthem/news/anthem-game-update |archive-date=2025-07-04 |access-date=2025-07-04 |website=EA}}</ref> As the title was developed exclusively under the live-service model, the closure of the servers will render the game unplayable.<ref name=":022" />

===Bungie===
{{Main|Bungie}}
The [[wikipedia:Destiny_(video_game_series)|Destiny]] franchise is Bungie's primary source of revenue, and its most recent title, Destiny 2, has featured a significant amount of content offered in the game that has been forcibly vaulted by the company.<ref name=":1" /><ref>{{Cite news |last=Glagowski |first=Peter |date=Jun 9, 2020 |title=Bungie To Remove Four Planets And All But Three Raids From Destiny 2 |url=https://www.thegamer.com/destiny-2-content-removal/ |access-date=Mar 31, 2025 |work=The Gamer}}</ref> Most notably, player-purchased content, including single-player content that shouldn't necessitate access to a server, has been removed from the game.<ref name=":1" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=The_Observer |date=Jun 18, 2021 |title=How could Bungie get away so easily with removing paid content from Destiny 2? |url=https://www.neogaf.com/threads/how-could-bungie-get-away-so-easily-with-removing-paid-content-from-destiny-2.1610927/ |access-date=Mar 31, 2025 |website=NeoGAF}}</ref> In mid-2022, Bungie did promise to stop removing content from the game,<ref>{{Cite news |last=Gach |first=Ethan |date=Aug 23, 2022 |title=Destiny 2 Promises No More Axing Old Parts Of Game, Something That Players Hated |url=https://kotaku.com/destiny-2-lightfall-vaulting-sunset-forsaken-expansion-1849446608 |access-date=Mar 31, 2025 |work=Kotaku}}</ref> but not all legacy content has been reintroduced to the game.<ref>{{Cite news |last=GB Times Gaming Team |date=Mar 21, 2025 |title=Why is Bungie Removing Content from Destiny 2? The Content Vault Controversy Explained |url=https://gbtimes.com/gaming/why-is-bungie-removing-content/ |access-date=Mar 31, 2025 |work=GB Times}}</ref>

Bungie's previous GaaS title, Destiny, requires an always-online connection, and while the company has stated that they will maintain legacy support for both modern platforms,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bungie |title=Legacy Support for Destiny 1 Activities |url=https://help.bungie.net/hc/en-us/articles/360049201951-Legacy-Support-for-Destiny-1-Activities |access-date=Mar 31, 2025 |website=Bungie Help}}</ref> and legacy console editions,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bungie |title=Destiny 1 on Legacy Consoles |url=https://help.bungie.net/hc/en-us/articles/360049497531-Destiny-1-on-Legacy-Consoles |access-date=Mar 31, 2025 |website=Bungie Help}}</ref> it is plausible due to software degradation for the servers<ref>{{Cite news |last=MorphNeo |date=Jul 29, 2024 |title=Destiny 1 - Have they really SHUT IT DOWN? - Error: This version of Destiny is no longer available. |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YfYzX58wMBs |access-date=Mar 31, 2025 |work=YouTube}}</ref> though, that the title could eventually become unplayable for consumers, especially as error frequency grows more common over time.<ref>{{Cite web |last=javagat10 |date=Jan 29, 2023 |title=Destiny Server issue on Xbox 360. |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/DestinyTheGame/comments/10o1t6l/destiny_server_issue_on_xbox_360/ |access-date=Mar 31, 2025}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=ICE BREAKER (Timelost) |date=Jul 19, 2025 |title=Is destiny1 servers shut down permanently? |url=https://www.bungie.net/en/Forums/Post/264186352?page=0 |access-date=Mar 31, 2025 |website=Bungie Forums}}</ref>

Bungie has also announced ''{{Wplink|https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marathon_(upcoming_video_game)|Marathon}}'',<ref>{{Cite news |last=Bungie |date=May 24, 2023 |title=Bungie Announces Marathon; Nathan Fillion To Return to Destiny 2 for The Final Shape Expansion |url=https://press.bungie.com/Bungie-Announces-Marathon-Nathan-Fillion-To-Return-to-Destiny-2-for-Th |access-date=Mar 31, 2025 |work=Bungie Press Room}}</ref> a reboot for their older franchise. This game has the plausibility to release as a live service title as well, considering Bungie's recent history with their games.

==References==
{{Reflist}}
[[Category:Services]]
[[Category:Common terms]]

2025-12-10T19:11:34Z

ClippyFellow47: Minor grammar edits to improve tone

{{ToneWarning}}{{InfoboxCompany
| Name = WhatsApp
| Type =Subsidiary
| Founded =2009
| Industry =Social Media
| Official Website =https://www.whatsapp.com/
| Logo =WhatsApp Logo green.svg
}}'''[[wikipedia:WhatsApp|WhatsApp]]''' (officially '''WhatsApp Messenger''') is an American instant messaging (IM) and voice-over-IP (VoIP) service owned by technology conglomerate [[Meta]].

==Consumer impact summary==

===User Privacy===
Collects and shares metadata, while competing apps intentionally collect less to avoid incursions on their users' privacy.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Elkind |first=Peter |last2=Gillum |first2=Jack |last3=Silverman |first3=Craig |date=7 Sep 2021 |title=How Facebook Undermines Privacy Protections for Its 2 Billion WhatsApp Users |url=https://www.propublica.org/article/how-facebook-undermines-privacy-protections-for-its-2-billion-whatsapp-users |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210907090516/https://www.propublica.org/article/how-facebook-undermines-privacy-protections-for-its-2-billion-whatsapp-users |archive-date=7 Sep 2021 |access-date=6 Mar 2025 |website=ProPublica}}</ref>

===Market Control===
The combination of [[Facebook]], WhatsApp, and [[Instagram]], all owned by Meta, serves billions of active users.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dixon |first=Stacy Jo |date=10 Jul 2024 |title=Most popular social networks worldwide as of April 2024, by number of monthly active users |url=https://www.statista.com/statistics/272014/global-social-networks-ranked-by-number-of-users/ |access-date=6 Mar 2025 |website=Statista |quote=''[...] Meta Platforms owns four of the biggest social media platforms, all with more than one billion monthly active users each: Facebook (core platform), WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Instagram.''}}</ref>

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

===Introduction of advertising (2025)===
In June 2025, Meta announced that personalized ads would be introduced globally on WhatsApp.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Scharon |first=Harding |date=2025-06-16 |title=Ads are “rolling out gradually” to WhatsApp |url=https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2025/06/ads-are-rolling-out-gradually-to-whatsapp/ |access-date=2025-06-18 |website=Ars Technica}}</ref> Previously, Meta (then known as Facebook) stated in 2014, after it acquired the application: <blockquote>''("[…] And you can still count on absolutely no ads interrupting your communication.")''.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Facebook |url=https://blog.whatsapp.com/facebook?lang=en |access-date=2025-06-18 |website=WhatsApp Blog}}</ref> </blockquote>The personalized ads also utilize data from linked accounts on other Meta platforms.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-06-16 |title=Helping You Find More Channels and Businesses on WhatsApp |url=https://about.fb.com/news/2025/06/helping-you-find-more-channels-businesses-on-whatsapp/ |access-date=2025-06-20 |website=Meta Newsroom}}</ref>

===Privacy policy update (2021)===
{{Main|WhatsApp updates privacy policy and millions of users flee the platform}}
There was widespread backlash over an upcoming privacy policy update related to the data-sharing procedures with Facebook. It outlined how businesses that use WhatsApp for customer service may store logs of their chats on Facebook servers.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Statt |first=Nick |date=12 Jan 2021 |title=WhatsApp clarifies it’s not giving all your data to Facebook after surge in Signal and Telegram users |url=https://www.theverge.com/2021/1/12/22226792/whatsapp-privacy-policy-response-signal-telegram-controversy-clarification |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210112161057/https://www.theverge.com/2021/1/12/22226792/whatsapp-privacy-policy-response-signal-telegram-controversy-clarification |archive-date=12 Jan 2021 |access-date=6 Mar 2025 |website=The Verge}}</ref> The update sparked a broader concern, prompting millions of users to abandon the platform.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hern |first=Alex |date=24 Jan 2021 |title=WhatsApp loses millions of users after terms update |url=https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2021/jan/24/whatsapp-loses-millions-of-users-after-terms-update |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210124165416/https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2021/jan/24/whatsapp-loses-millions-of-users-after-terms-update |archive-date=24 Jan 2021 |access-date=6 Mar 2025 |website=The Guardian}}</ref>

==="Advanced chat privacy"===
The "Advanced Chat Privacy" feature reduces data portability by disabling chat exporting. Chat exporting allows you to export the entire chat history, along with optional media attachments, into a ZIP file. This can now be remotely disabled by the other participant, meaning the user is at the mercy of the other participant to allow exporting.

There are legitimate reasons for exporting chats, such as creating backups in a human-readable and non-proprietary format, preempting erroneous account terminations (yes, [https://karl-voit.at/cloud they do happen]), searching using external tools, and preserving good memories with people, including those of deceased individuals (see [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rj5dxoMY-dE Ed Sheeran - Old Phone]). And if you don't trust someone to keep something secret, you shouldn't send it in the first place, just as you would not tell them in real life.

The developers of WhatsApp have threatened to block [[screenshot blocking|screenshots]] inside chats with "advanced chat privacy" enabled:<ref>[http://archive.today/2025.07.07-200053/https://cybersecuritynews.com/whatsapp-advanced-chat-privacy-feature/ WhatsApp’s New Advanced Chat Privacy Feature to Protect Sensitive Conversations]</ref>

<blockquote>
The company has stated that this is the first iteration of the feature, with plans to introduce even more robust protections in future updates, potentially including measures to block screenshots.
</blockquote>
==Mandatory updates==
WhatsApp forces users to stay on updated versions of the app by first giving them an in-app warning if they have not updated for a while. If the user still chooses not to update, usage of the app will be disabled entirely {{Citation needed|reason=how long before this happens? any screenshots?}}. This is problematic in certain cases, such as being in an area with poor or limited internet connectivity or using an older device that is no longer supported.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Cole |first=Dylan |title=WhatsApp drops support for Android KitKat |url=https://www.androidpolice.com/whatsapp-support-android-kitkat/ |website=Android Police}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Ro |date=2024-12-22 |title=WhatsApp to drop support for older Android devices on January 1, 2025 |url=https://www.gsmarena.com/whatsapp_to_drop_support_for_older_android_devices_on_january_1_2025-news-65834.php |website=GSMArena}}</ref> 

==Alternatives==
*[https://www.signal.org Signal] offers most of the same features, and while [[Signal data collection|not without some issues]], the app is open source, relies on Privacy by Design, and is operated by a non-profit.

*[https://matrix.org/ Matrix] is more private and uses a federated design, but setup is slightly more involved than that of a commercial messenger.

*[https://telegram.org/ Telegram] is the most popular alternative and is end-user-friendly, with minimal content moderation. Prior to a September 2024 policy change, it refused to hand over user data to law enforcement upon request.<ref>{{Cite web |first=Lily |last=Jamali |title=Telegram will now provide some user data to authorities |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvglp0xny3eo |website=BBC |date=23 Sep 2024 |access-date=22 Jul 2025 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240923225048/https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvglp0xny3eo |archive-date=23 Sep 2024}}</ref>

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:WhatsApp messenger]]

Flock Safety

2025-12-10T19:04:47Z

ClippyFellow47: Major grammar edits to improve tone.

{{ToneWarning}}
{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=2017
|Industry=Surveillance Technology
|Type=Private
|Website=https://www.flocksafety.com
|Description=Flock Safety is an American surveillance technology company that develops and operates a mass surveillance system combining automated license plate readers (LPRs), video surveillance cameras, gunshot detection, drones, and data analytics platforms used by thousands of law enforcement agencies and private entities across the United States.
|Logo=Flock Safety Logo (2025).svg}}
[[wikipedia:Flock_Safety|Flock Safety]] is a technology company that creates and operates an extensive surveillance network using automated license plate readers (ALPRs) and related technologies.<ref name=":7">{{Cite web |last=Rossmann |first=Louis |date=2025-10-23 |title=Highlights from Denver's Flock camera town hall – Mayor didn't show up |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1dkIiLWuXBE |access-date=2025-10-30 |website=YouTube |type=Video}}</ref> Flock was founded in 2017 by Georgia Tech alumni Garrett Langley (CEO), Matt Feury (CTO), and Paige Todd (CPO), beginning as a side project where they built their first surveillance cameras by hand.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Edmonson |first=Crystal |date=2023-08-22 |title=Flock Safety cameras help police amid worker shortage, CEO Garrett Langley says |url=https://www.bizjournals.com/atlanta/news/2023/08/22/flock-safety-cameras-police-shortage-langley.html |website=Atlanta Business Chronicle}}</ref> The company operates on a "surveillance as a service" business model, owning and maintaining camera infrastructure while charging recurring fees to law enforcement agencies, private communities, and businesses for access to its surveillance data and network.<ref name="FlockFunding">{{Cite web |date=13 Mar 2025 |title=Accelerating Innovation: Flock Secures $275 Million to Advance Crime-Solving Technology |url=https://www.flocksafety.com/blog/flock-safety-secures-major-funding |access-date=26 Sep 2025 |website=[[Flock Safety]]}}</ref>

As of mid-2025, independent reporting and public records indicate the Flock network comprised more than 80,000 AI-enabled cameras nationwide.<ref name="Koebler2025">{{cite web |last=Koebler |first=Jason |date=2025-08-25 |title=CBP Had Access to More than 80,000 Flock AI Cameras Nationwide |url=https://www.404media.co/cbp-had-access-to-more-than-80-000-flock-ai-cameras-nationwide/ |access-date=2025-10-29}}</ref> Flock’s materials state deployments in roughly 5,000 communities, and the company reports the system processes "over 20 billion" vehicle scans per month; these latter two figures are company-provided and should be read as Flock’s claims rather than independently verified totals.<ref>{{cite web |date=2025-05-28 |title=City Leaders Choose Flock Safety: A Proven, Community-Focused Public Safety Solution |url=https://www.flocksafety.com/blog/city-leaders-choose-flock-safety-a-proven-community-focused-public-safety-solution |website=Flock Safety |accessdate=2025-10-29}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Real-Time Vehicle Leads, Nationwide |url=https://www.flocksafety.com/products/national-lpr-network |website=Flock Safety |accessdate=2025-10-29}}</ref><ref name=":8">{{cite web |title=FlockOS |url=https://www.flocksafety.com/products/flock-os |url-status=live |accessdate=2025-12-01 |website=Flock Safety}}</ref>

The company reported surpassing roughly $300 million in annual recurring revenue. In March 2025, it closed a $275 million funding round led by Andreessen Horowitz, which independent reporting estimated valued the company at about $7.5 billion.<ref name="FlockFunding" /><ref>{{cite web |last=Hu |first=Crystal |date=2025-03-13 |title=US startup Flock Safety raises $275 million to fund manufacturing plant, R&D |url=https://www.reuters.com/technology/us-startup-flock-safety-raises-275-million-fund-manufacturing-plant-rd-2025-03-13/ |website=Reuters |accessdate=2025-10-29}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Accelerating Innovation: Flock Secures $275 Million to Advance Crime-Solving Technology |url=https://www.flocksafety.com/blog/flock-safety-secures-major-funding |website=Flock Safety |date=2025-03-13 |accessdate=2025-10-29}}</ref> As of 2025, the company has raised a total of $957.5 million in funding.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Flock Safety: 2025 CNBC Disruptor 50 |url=https://www.cnbc.com/2025/06/10/flock-safety-cnbc-disruptor-50.html |website=CNBC}}</ref>

==Consumer-impact summary==

===Privacy Violations===
Critics, including civil liberties organizations, argue that Flock's mass surveillance network violates privacy rights and represents a form of constant public monitoring that differs fundamentally from traditional, fleeting police observation.<ref name="ACLUStanley">{{Cite web |last=Stanley |first=Jay |title=Flock's Aggressive Expansions Go Far Beyond Simple Driver Surveillance |url=https://www.aclu.org/news/privacy-technology/flock-roundup |website=American Civil Liberties Union}}</ref> A lawsuit filed in 2024 challenges the constitutionality of warrantless searches of ALPR databases; courts have split on the issue in different jurisdictions, and rulings continue to be appealed. For example, a federal complaint in Schmidt v. City of Norfolk (E.D. Va.) alleges repeated location logging by ALPRs, while appellate activity in related Virginia cases continued into 2025. Readers should consult the cited court documents and reporting for further developments.<ref>{{cite web |last=Collier |first=Kevin |date=2025-09-18 |title=Police cameras tracked one driver 526 times in four months, lawsuit says |url=https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/security/virginia-police-used-flock-cameras-track-driver-safety-lawsuit-surveil-rcna230399 |accessdate=2025-10-29}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Flock Applauds Virginia Court of Appeals Ruling Affirming Constitutionality of LPR Cameras |url=https://www.flocksafety.com/blog/flock-applauds-virginia-court-of-appeals-ruling-affirming-constitutionality-of-lpr-cameras |date=2025-10-14 |accessdate=2025-10-29}}</ref> The system does not offer a public opt-out mechanism.<ref name=":0">{{cite web |date=2025-10-21 |title=Leaving the Door Wide Open: Flock Surveillance Systems Expose Washington Data to Immigration Enforcement |url=https://jsis.washington.edu/humanrights/2025/10/21/leaving-the-door-wide-open/ |accessdate=2025-10-30 |website=University of Washington Center for Human Rights}}</ref> This raised concerns about the potential for misuse, profiling, and long-term monitoring of individuals and their associations.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hamid |first=Sarah |last2=Alajaji |first2=Rindala |date=27 Jun 2025 |title=Flock Safety's Feature Updates Cannot Make Automated License Plate Readers Safe |url=https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2025/06/flock-safetys-feature-updates-cannot-make-automated-license-plate-readers-safe |website=Electronic Frontier Foundation}}</ref>

Specific privacy violations include:
*Warrantless tracking and data sharing: Flock's business model enables a nationwide data-sharing network that allows thousands of law enforcement agencies to access location data without warrants or reasonable suspicion of wrongdoing.<ref name="ACLUStanley" />
*Expanded audio surveillance: In 2025, Flock announced that its Raven gunshot detection systems would begin listening for "human distress" sounds, such as screaming, expanding beyond gunshot detection to voice monitoring.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Guariglia |first=Matthew |date=2025-10-02 |title=Flock's Gunshot Detection Microphones Will Start Listening for Human Voices |url=https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2025/10/flocks-gunshot-detection-microphones-will-start-listening-human-voices |website=Electronic Frontier Foundation}}</ref>
*Undermining state shield laws: Despite state laws protecting healthcare access, out-of-state officers from jurisdictions that criminalize abortion or gender-affirming care can access Flock data on residents of protective states.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Maass |first=Dave |date=7 Oct 2025 |title=Flock Safety and Texas Sheriff Claimed License Plate Search Was for a Missing Person. It Was an Abortion Investigation. |url=https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2025/10/flock-safety-and-texas-sheriff-claimed-license-plate-search-was-missing-person-it |website=Electronic Frontier Foundation}}</ref>
*Immigration enforcement: Research from the University of Washington Center for Human Rights documented systematic access to Flock data by federal immigration authorities, often in violation of state laws.<ref name=":0" /> This occurred through three methods: "front door" access, where agencies directly shared data with Border Patrol; "back door" access via a default "National Lookup" setting that granted federal access without explicit local authorization; and "side door" searches where local officers ran searches on behalf of ICE.<ref name=":0" />
*Contractual privacy overreach: The ACLU of Massachusetts found that Flock's default service agreement grants the company a "worldwide, perpetual, royalty-free" license to disclose agency data for "investigative purposes," even if a local police department has chosen to restrict data sharing with other agencies.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Flock Can Share Driver-Surveillance Data Even When Police Departments Opt Out, And Other Flock Developments |url=https://www.aclu.org/news/privacy-technology/flock-massachusetts-and-updates |website=American Civil Liberties Union}}</ref>
===Business '''Model'''===
Flock Safety operates on a subscription-based "safety-as-a-service" model.<ref name="Sacra">{{cite web |title=Flock Safety revenue, growth rate & funding |url=https://sacra.com/c/flock-safety/ |website=Sacra |access-date=2025-10-30}}</ref> The company charges approximately $2,500 per camera annually, plus a one-time installation fee.<ref name="Sacra" /> This subscription includes maintenance, software updates, and data hosting. Forbes reported in 2025 that a single license plate reader camera costs between $3,000 and $3,500, with additional fees for the FlockOS platform.<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |last=Brewster |first=Thomas |date=2025-09-03 |title=AI Startup Flock Thinks It Can Eliminate All Crime In America |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/thomasbrewster/2025/09/03/ai-startup-flock-thinks-it-can-eliminate-all-crime-in-america/ |access-date=2025-10-30 |website=Forbes}}</ref> This model has proven highly successful, with the company reporting over $300 million in annual recurring revenue as of 2024, reflecting a 70% year-over-year increase.<ref name="FlockFunding" />

Each subscription includes comprehensive services such as maintenance, software updates, data hosting, customer support, and unlimited user access.<ref name="Sacra" /> Flock's AI-enabled cameras capture detailed vehicle “[[Device fingerprint|fingerprints]]”—including make, model, color, bumper stickers, damages, and other distinguishing characteristics—in addition to license plates,<ref name=":4" /> with footage retained for 30 days before deletion.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2019-03-11 |title=How Flock Safety Eliminates Neighborhood Crime While Protecting Resident Privacy |url=https://www.flocksafety.com/blog/how-flock-safety-protects-resident-privacy |url-status=live |access-date=2025-12-01 |website=Flock Safety Blog}}</ref> The company’s network benefits from strong network effects. Investor Andreessen Horowitz has stated the system's power grows with adoption, as "digital evidence can be pooled across different law enforcement agencies," creating network effects that increase surveillance capabilities as more agencies join.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Investing in Flock Safety |url=https://a16z.com/investing-in-flock-safety/ |website=Andreessen Horowitz}}</ref> As cameras are deployed across more jurisdictions, participating agencies gain access to a broader shared data pool.

Flock initially focused on homeowner's associations—which still account for roughly 40% of its business—before expanding rapidly into law enforcement and enterprise sectors, illustrating a “land-and-expand” growth strategy.<ref name="Sacra" /> Major venture capital firms have invested heavily, signaling strong market confidence. In March 2025, a funding round of $275 million was led by Andreessen Horowitz, with participation from Green Oaks Capital, Bedrock Capital, and Tiger Global, among others, valuing the company at $7.5 billion.<ref name="FlockFunding" /><ref>{{cite web |title=Wilson Sonsini Advises Flock Safety on $275 Million Financing |url=https://www.wsgr.com/en/insights/wilson-sonsini-advises-flock-safety-on-dollar275-million-financing.html |publisher=Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati |date=2025-03-14 |accessdate=2025-10-30}}</ref> Major corporate clients include retailers like Lowe's and FedEx, mall operator Simon Property Group, and healthcare provider Kaiser Permanente.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Brewster |first=Thomas |date=2024-05-06 |title=America's Biggest Mall Owner Is Sharing AI Surveillance Feeds Directly With Cops |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/thomasbrewster/2024/05/06/simon-property-and-flock-safety-feed-ai-surveillance-feeds-to-the-cops/ |website=Forbes}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Brewster |first=Thomas |date=2024-06-26 |title=FedEx's Secretive Police Force Is Helping Cops Build An AI Car Surveillance Network |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/thomasbrewster/2024/06/26/fedex-police-ai-car-surveillance-network-flock-safety/ |website=Forbes}}</ref>

Strategic acquisitions and infrastructure investment fuel the company's expansion. Following its acquisition of Aerodome, Flock Safety is building a 100,000-square-foot U.S. manufacturing facility for drone production.<ref name=":1">{{cite web |title=Flock Safety: 2025 CNBC Disruptor 50 |url=https://www.cnbc.com/2025/06/10/flock-safety-cnbc-disruptor-50.html |publisher=CNBC |date=2025-06-10 |accessdate=2025-10-30}}</ref>

==Surveillance technology==
''See: [[Flock license plate readers]]''

Flock Safety offers an integrated ecosystem of surveillance hardware and software marketed as a public safety platform.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |title=Flock Safety Product Hub |url=https://www.flocksafety.com/products |website=Flock Safety |access-date=2025-10-30}}</ref> The hardware component includes solar-powered ALPRs that capture license plates and create a "vehicle fingerprint" based on make, model, color, and distinguishing features like bumper stickers or roof racks;<ref name=":2" /> video cameras with AI-powered analytics for people and vehicle detection;<ref name=":2" /> acoustic sensors that identify gunshots and breaking glass for real-time alerts;<ref name=":2" /> and drones acquired through Aerodome for "drone as first responder" systems automatically dispatched to emergency calls.<ref name=":1" /><ref>{{Cite web |title=Flock Expands Into Drones |url=https://www.flocksafety.com/blog/flock-safety-expands-into-drones-for-law-enforcement-with-acquisition-of-aerodome |website=Flock Safety |access-date=2025-10-30}}</ref>

Specific product models include the Falcon and Sparrow license plate readers, as well as the Raven gunshot detection system.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Katz-Lecabe |first=Mike |date=2022-04-01 |title=Dissection of Flock Safety Camera |url=https://www.chrp.org/blog/dissection-of-flock-safety-camera |website=The Center for Human Rights and Privacy}}</ref> Flock's software integrates with police vehicle systems, including widely used Axon dashcams.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Axon Partners with Flock Safety to Enhance Security for Cities and Neighborhoods |url=https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/axon-partners-with-flock-safety-to-enhance-security-for-cities-and-neighborhoods-302036099.html |website=PR Newswire}}</ref>

The software platform includes FlockOS, a real-time crime center platform that enables users to view maps and geographic data, body camera and drone feeds, 911 call data, as well as traffic camera and acoustic sensor data.<ref name=":8" /><ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-08-05 |title=The Evolution of FlockOS: How Customer Feedback Continues to Shape the Future |url=https://www.flocksafety.com/blog/the-evolution-of-flockos-how-customer-feedback-continues-to-shape-the-future |url-status=live |access-date=2025-12-01 |website=Flock Safety Blog}}</ref> FlockOS enables the National LPR Network, a nationwide database for sharing and searching LPR data across jurisdictions;[27] and Flock Nova, a data analytics platform that integrates LPR data with law enforcement systems, such as RMS and CAD,<ref name=":2" /> and Flock Nova, a data analytics platform integrating LPR data with law enforcement systems like RMS and CAD to identify patterns.<ref name=":2" />

==Incidents==
===Wrongful Package Theft Accusation in Bow Mar, Colorado (September 2025)===
In September 2025, Columbine Valley Police Sgt. Jamie Milliman wrongfully accused Denver resident Chrisanna Elser of package theft, relying exclusively on Flock Safety license plate reader data that placed her vehicle in Bow Mar during the robbery.<ref name=":5">{{cite web | title=Police used Flock cameras to accuse a Denver woman of package theft. She had her own evidence | website=Denverite | date=2025-10-28 | url=https://denverite.com/2025/10/27/bow-mar-flock-cameras-accusation/ | accessdate=2025-10-30}}</ref> The officer asserted "zero doubt" about her guilt, telling her verbatim, "It is locked in. There is zero doubt. I wouldn't have come here unless I was 100% sure," and bragged about the extensive surveillance network, stating "you can't get a breath of fresh air, in or out of that place, without us knowing."<ref name=":6">{{cite web | title=After police used Flock cameras to accuse a Denver woman of theft, she had to prove her own innocence | website=The Colorado Sun | date=2025-10-28 | url=https://coloradosun.com/2025/10/28/flock-camera-police-colorado-columbine-valley/ | accessdate=2025-10-30}}</ref> When Elser denied the accusation, Milliman refused to show her the supposed evidence, stating, "You have not been honest with me, so I'm not going to extend you any courtesy of showing you a video when I don't need to."<ref>{{cite web | title=Police use Flock cameras to wrongfully accuse Denver woman of theft | website=KDVR | date=2025-10-28 | url=https://kdvr.com/news/local/police-use-flock-cameras-to-wrongfully-accuse-denver-woman-of-theft/ | accessdate=2025-10-30}}</ref> Elser was compelled to compile extensive exculpatory evidence, including dashcam footage, Google Timeline data, witness statements, and surveillance images from her tailor. She ultimately submitted a 7-page affidavit and a voluminous Google Drive folder to prove her innocence.<ref name=":5" /> The summons was only voided after Police Chief Bret Cottrell reviewed her evidence, writing, "After reviewing the evidence you have provided (nicely done btw), we have voided the summons that was issued." However, the department provided neither an apology nor an explanation.<ref name=":6" /> This incident raises serious concerns about Flock's role in creating a surveillance state, where citizens are presumed guilty until they prove their innocence.

===Denver Contract and Surveillance Controversy (Ongoing)===
Denver Mayor Mike Johnston unilaterally renewed the city's contract with Flock Safety through an emergency executive order just hours before a town hall protest, after the Denver City Council had unanimously rejected the contract 12-0.<ref name="cbsdenver">{{cite web | title=Some on the Denver City Council upset after Mayor Mike Johnston moves forward with controversial Flock cameras | website=CBS News Colorado | date=2025-10-23 | url=https://www.cbsnews.com/colorado/news/flock-camera-denver-city-council-mayor/ | accessdate=2025-10-30}}</ref><ref name="coloradopolitics">{{cite web | title=Anger grows as Denver mayor extends Flock camera contract | website=Colorado Politics | date=2025-10-23 | url=https://www.coloradopolitics.com/2025/10/23/anger-grows-as-denver-mayor-extends-flock-camera-contract/ | accessdate=2025-10-30}}</ref> The council's rejection was due to a lack of guardrails around data access and privacy concerns.<ref name="cbsdenver" /> The mayor's move, described by Councilwoman Shontel Lewis as "'king' behavior," bypassed the democratic process and sparked immediate public backlash.<ref name="cbsdenver" /> A town hall protest organized by consumer advocate Louis Rossmann drew close to 700 attendees, filling a main conference room and overflow spaces.<ref name="coloradopolitics" /><ref name=":7" /> Rossmann has also published a guide for residents to oppose the cameras.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Rossmann |first=Louis |date=2025-10-20 |title=A guide to de‑flocking Denver: here's EXACTLY what you need to do, step‑by‑step. |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cxJIp_4RaWk |archive-date= |access-date=2025-10-30 |website=YouTube |type=Video}}</ref> The new, no-cost five-month extension included new safeguards, such as a $100,000 fine on Flock for any unauthorized data sharing and cutting off access for all jurisdictions outside of the Denver Police Department.<ref name="cbsdenver" /><ref name="coloradopolitics" /> The mayor's office cited the technology's role in recovering stolen vehicles and solving homicides, while critics remained concerned about executive overreach and the system's potential for misuse.<ref name="cbsdenver" /><ref name="coloradopolitics" />

===Data Sharing with Federal Immigration Authorities (Ongoing)===
Federal immigration enforcement agencies systematically accessed Flock's license plate data through multiple methods despite state laws prohibiting such sharing.<ref>{{cite web | last1=Koebler | first1=Jason | last2=Cox | first2=Joseph | title=ICE Taps into Nationwide AI-Enabled Camera Network, Data Shows | website=404 Media | date=2025-05-27 | url=https://www.404media.co/ice-taps-into-nationwide-ai-enabled-camera-network-data-shows/ | accessdate=2025-10-30}}</ref> This included direct "front door" access where at least eight Washington law enforcement agencies enabled 1:1 data sharing with U.S. Border Patrol,<ref name=":0" /> "back door" access where Border Patrol searched data from at least ten Washington police departments without explicit authorization,<ref name=":0" /> and "side door" searches where local officers conducted searches on behalf of ICE, visible only when officers typed reasons like "ICE" into search fields.<ref>{{cite web | last1=Koebler | first1=Jason | title=CBP Had Access to More than 80,000 Flock AI Cameras Nationwide | website=404 Media | date=2025-08-25 | url=https://www.404media.co/cbp-had-access-to-more-than-80-000-flock-ai-cameras-nationwide/ | accessdate=2025-10-30}}</ref> Internal Flock data revealed that CBP had access to more than 80,000 cameras nationwide, with searches conducted in multiple states, potentially violating state sanctuary laws.<ref>{{cite web | title=License plate camera company halts cooperation with federal agencies among investigation concerns | website=ABC7 Chicago | date=2025-08-26 | url=https://abc7.com/post/flock-safety-license-plate-camera-company-halts-cooperation-federal-agencies-among-investigation-concerns-including-il/17653876/ | accessdate=2025-10-30}}</ref>

===Investigation of Abortion Seeker (May 2025)===
A Johnson County, Texas sheriff's officer conducted a nationwide surveillance operation using Flock Safety's network to track a woman who had a self-managed abortion.<ref>{{cite web | last1=Koebler | first1=Jason | last2=Cox | first2=Joseph | title=A Texas Cop Searched License Plate Cameras Nationwide for a Woman Who Got an Abortion | website=404 Media | date=2025-05-29 | url=https://www.404media.co/a-texas-cop-searched-license-plate-cameras-nationwide-for-a-woman-who-got-an-abortion/ | accessdate=2025-10-30}}</ref> The search spanned 6,809 different Flock networks and queried data from over 83,000 cameras across multiple states.<ref name=":0" /> The officer specifically searched Flock camera data from Yakima and Prosser, Washington, accessing surveillance data from jurisdictions where abortion is legally protected to investigate someone from a restrictive state.<ref>{{cite web | last1=Koebler | first1=Jason | last2=Cox | first2=Joseph | title=Police Said They Surveilled Woman Who Had an Abortion for Her 'Safety.' Court Records Show They Considered Charging Her With a Crime | website=404 Media | date=2025-10-07 | url=https://www.404media.co/police-said-they-surveilled-woman-who-had-an-abortion-for-her-safety-court-records-show-they-considered-charging-her-with-a-crime/ | accessdate=2025-10-30}}</ref> While police initially claimed the surveillance was for the woman's "safety," internal documents revealed the case was officially logged as a "death investigation" and detectives had consulted the district attorney about charging the woman.<ref>{{cite web | title=Flock Gives Law Enforcement All Over the Country Access to Your Location | website=ACLU of Massachusetts | date=2025-10-07 | url=https://data.aclum.org/2025/10/07/flock-gives-law-enforcement-all-over-the-country-access-to-your-location/ | accessdate=2025-10-30}}</ref> The incident sparked a congressional investigation and led to multiple jurisdictions reevaluating their Flock contracts over concerns about reproductive rights surveillance.<ref>{{cite web | title=I'm Hearing About More Pushback Against Flock, Fueled by Concern Over Anti-Immigrant Uses | website=ACLU | date=2025-10-28 | url=https://www.aclu.org/news/privacy-technology/flock-pushback | accessdate=2025-10-30}}</ref>

===Paused Federal Pilots and Systemic Data Sharing with Federal Agencies (August 2025)===
Flock Safety announced it was pausing all ongoing pilot programs with Department of Homeland Security agencies, including U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |title=Ensuring Local Compliance |url=https://www.flocksafety.com/blog/ensuring-local-compliance |website=Flock Safety}}</ref> The company stated this pause was to "ensure local compliance" and admitted its previous public statements had "inadvertently provided inaccurate information" about the level of federal access to its network.<ref name=":3" />

This decision followed investigations revealing systematic data sharing with federal immigration authorities that potentially violated state laws in Washington, Illinois, and other states with sanctuary protections.<ref name=":0" /> A University of Washington Center for Human Rights report documented three methods of federal access:

*Front door access: At least eight Washington law enforcement agencies, including police departments in Yakima and Wenatchee, enabled direct data sharing with U.S. Border Patrol.<ref name=":0" /><ref name="wenatchee">{{cite web | title=Flock Safety setting allowed U.S. Border Patrol access to Wenatchee Valley license plate data without police knowledge | website=The Wenatchee World | date=2025-10-29 | url=https://www.wenatcheeworld.com/news/local/flock-safety-setting-allowed-u-s-border-patrol-access-to-wenatchee-valley-license-plate-data/article_8335941e-161c-594d-bc51-a56e0bd7251b.html | accessdate=2025-10-29}}</ref>

*Back door access: A default "National Lookup" setting allowed Border Patrol to access data from at least ten Washington agencies without explicit authorization. Police chiefs in Wenatchee and East Wenatchee stated they were unaware of this setting and disabled it upon discovery.<ref name=":0" /><ref name="wenatchee" />

*Side door searches: Law enforcement officers conducted searches on behalf of ICE, visible only when officers typed reasons like "ICE" or "illegal immigration" into search fields.<ref name=":0" /> A public interest law firm noted Flock's pause of direct federal access does little to prevent this workaround, as "federal law enforcement cannot directly access this trove of information; they can just ask other Flock customers to run searches or share log-in information."<ref name="ij">{{cite web | title=Public Interest Law Firm Responds to Flock Safety Pausing Federal Access to License Plate Reader Cameras | website=Institute for Justice | date=2025-08-26 | url=https://ij.org/press-release/public-interest-law-firm-responds-to-flock-safety-pausing-federal-access-to-license-plate-reader-cameras/ | accessdate=2025-10-29}}</ref>

===Consumer Complaints about Business Practices===
Multiple independent user reviews on Trustpilot, as well as reports from legal advocacy groups, detail a range of consumer complaints against Flock Safety. These issues span predatory billing practices, unreliable hardware, inadequate customer support, and concerns over the value and ethics of the service.

*Predatory billing and contract issues: Customers report aggressive auto-renewal practices. One review alleges the company sent termination notices to the incorrect party and then enforced an auto-renewed two-year contract for nearly $10,000, demanding payment because the customer did not provide a 30-day termination notice.<ref name="trustpilot">{{cite web | title=Flock Safety Reviews | website=Trustpilot | url=https://www.trustpilot.com/review/flocksafety.com | accessdate=2025-10-29}}</ref> Another customer claimed the company would not offer a refund for cameras they found to be useless, describing the system as a "rip off."<ref name="trustpilot" /> The Institute for Justice has raised concerns that Flock tries to "lock customers into its products."<ref name="ij">{{cite web | title=Public Interest Law Firm Responds to Flock Safety Pausing Federal Access to License Plate Reader Cameras | website=Institute for Justice | date=2025-08-26 | url=https://ij.org/press-release/public-interest-law-firm-responds-to-flock-safety-pausing-federal-access-to-license-plate-reader-cameras/ | accessdate=2025-10-29}}</ref>

*Poor camera reliability and performance: Reviews frequently cite hardware failures and poor video quality. One neighborhood reported that a camera, costing $4,000 per year, was operational for only nine days before failing and had been offline for 25% of its total service time.<ref name="trustpilot" /> Another customer complained that the cameras are "not live" and lack night vision, concluding that a "$300 video camera system from Harbor Freight is 100% better."<ref name="trustpilot" /> A different reviewer stated that the quality declined significantly after March 2025, alleging the company "got rid of all their competent employees."<ref name="trustpilot" />

*Inadequate customer support: Numerous complaints have been made about poor customer service, particularly among smaller communities and organizations. One reviewer felt that the company is "focused on big city/county government contracts" and that "little guys are at the back of the line for support."<ref name="trustpilot" /> The company's profile on Trustpilot indicates that it has not replied to negative reviews.<ref name="trustpilot" />

*High cost and poor value: Customers question the value of the service, given its high annual fee. Reviews mention yearly payments of $4,000 to $4,700 for a single camera, with one customer paying $8,700 over two years for a system they found ineffective.<ref name="trustpilot" /> Forbes reports that a single Flock license plate reader camera costs between $3,000 and $3,500, with additional fees for the FlockOS subscription.<ref name=":4" />

*Ethical and legal concerns: Some criticisms extend beyond business practices to the product's societal impact. One review labeled Flock a "profoundly immoral company" that provides governments with the means to violate Fourth Amendment rights against unreasonable searches and seizures.<ref name="trustpilot" /> Major civil liberties organizations, including the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) have published analyses raising significant privacy and Fourth Amendment concerns about the technology.<ref>{{cite web | last=Stanley | first=Jay | title=Flock's Aggressive Expansions Go Far Beyond Simple Driver Surveillance | website=ACLU | date=2025-10-28 | url=https://www.aclu.org/news/privacy-technology/flock-roundup | accessdate=2025-10-29}}</ref> The ACLU has also published analyses raising considerable privacy concerns about the technology.<ref>{{cite web | title=Flock Can Share Driver-Surveillance Data Even When Police Departments Opt Out, And Other Flock Developments | website=ACLU | date=2025-10-07 | url=https://www.aclu.org/news/privacy-technology/flock-massachusetts-and-updates | accessdate=2025-10-29}}</ref>
==Lawsuits==

===''Schmidt v. City of Norfolk'' (18 Sep 2025)===

A lawsuit in Norfolk, VA, revealed that the city's ALPR system has logged the location of a plaintiff's vehicle 526 times in 4 months.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Collier |first=Kevin |date=2025-09-18 |title=Police cameras tracked one driver 526 times in four months, lawsuit says |url=https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/security/virginia-police-used-flock-cameras-track-driver-safety-lawsuit-surveil-rcna230399 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251008230235/https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/security/virginia-police-used-flock-cameras-track-driver-safety-lawsuit-surveil-rcna230399 |archive-date=2025-10-08 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=NBC News}}</ref> The second plaintiff had their vehicle's position logged 849 times in a similar time period. The ALPR system is provided by Flock to the Norfolk Police Department in a deal costing $2.2 million, in return for Flock providing services through to the end of 2027. The camera installation began in 2023, and at present, there are 176 cameras around the city. The lawsuit is requesting that the plaintiff's data be deleted and the cameras be turned off, arguing that these actions constitute an infringement of the Fourth Amendment and a warrantless search. Flock counters this assertion by claiming that "LPRs do not constitute a warrantless search because they take point-in-time photos of cars in public and cannot continuously track the movements of any individual." This legal position was supported by a ruling from the Virginia Court of Appeals in October 2025, which reversed a lower court and found that warrantless use of Flock's system does not violate the Fourth Amendment.<ref>{{cite web | title=Flock Applauds Virginia Court of Appeals Ruling Affirming Constitutionality of LPR Cameras | website=Flock Safety | date=2025-10-14 | url=https://www.flocksafety.com/blog/flock-applauds-virginia-court-of-appeals-ruling-affirming-constitutionality-of-lpr-cameras | accessdate=2025-10-29}}</ref>

===''United States v. Martin'' (11 Oct 2024)===

In ''United States v. Martin'' (E.D. Va.), the district court denied a motion to suppress evidence obtained via an ALPR network, issuing a memorandum opinion on October 11, 2024. The court concluded that the images at issue were point-in-time photographs of vehicles on public roads and therefore did not establish a reasonable expectation of privacy for purposes of the Fourth Amendment.<ref>{{cite web |title=MEMORANDUM OPINION, United States v. Martin, No. 3:23-cr-150 (E.D. Va. Oct. 11, 2024) |url=https://case-law.vlex.com/vid/united-states-v-martin-1056100094 |accessdate=2025-10-29}}</ref>

Legal commentators have treated the ruling as a persuasive decision supporting warrantless searches of ALPR/Flock databases in that jurisdiction; however, it remains a district-court decision and not binding precedent outside the Eastern District of Virginia. Courts in other jurisdictions have reached different conclusions on the warrant requirements for ALPR searches.<ref>{{cite web |last=Grosdidier |first=Pierre |title=Authorities can search Flock databases without a warrant |url=https://www.texasbar.com/AM/Template.cfm?ContentID=67513 |website=Texas Bar Journal |date=2025-04 |accessdate=2025-10-29}}</ref>

===Public Records Lawsuits in Washington State (26 Aug 2024)===

Multiple public-records disputes over Flock camera data have led to litigation in Washington. In one high-profile example, the Cities of Sedro-Woolley and Stanwood filed a declaratory-judgment action in Skagit County (Case No. 25-2-00717-29), asking a court to declare that images and data stored in Flock’s AWS cloud are not “public records” under the Washington Public Records Act unless and until a public agency accesses and downloads them.<ref>{{cite web |title=City of Sedro-Woolley and City of Stanwood v. Jose Rodriguez — Complaint for Declaratory Judgment |url=https://www.scribd.com/document/901263718/City-of-Sedro-Woolley-v-Jose-Rodriguez-Complaint-for-Declaratory-Judgement |website=Scribd (court filing) |date=2025 |accessdate=2025-10-29}}</ref> The dispute became contested in multiple forums after the requester filed his own suit and responsive filings, alleging that the cities had violated the PRA. While the litigation proceeds, some municipalities have paused or disabled Flock camera deployments pending a judicial ruling on whether the raw images/data must be released as public records.<ref>{{cite web |title=Stanwood pauses Flock cameras amid public records lawsuits |url=https://www.heraldnet.com/news/stanwood-pauses-flock-cameras-amid-public-records-lawsuits/ |website=HeraldNet |date=2025-09-10 |accessdate=2025-10-29}}</ref>

===Norfolk Circuit Court Warrant Requirement (June 2024)===

In June 2024, a Norfolk Circuit Court judge granted a defendant's motion to suppress evidence obtained from the city's Flock ALPR system, ruling that, in that case, warrantless access to the system implicated the Fourth Amendment.<ref>{{cite web |title=Norfolk judge rejects police Flock camera evidence without warrant |url=https://www.pilotonline.com/2024/06/15/norfolk-judge-rejects-police-flock-camera-evidence-without-warrant/ |website=The Virginian-Pilot |date=2024-06-15 |accessdate=2025-10-29}}</ref>

That trial-court ruling was later reversed by the Virginia Court of Appeals in ''Commonwealth v. Church'' (Oct 2025), which concluded the circuit court erred and held that the ALPR images at issue were point-in-time photographs of vehicles in public and therefore did not require a search warrant; the appellate court reversed the suppression and remanded for further proceedings.<ref>{{cite web |title=Commonwealth v. Ronnie D. Church, No. 0737-25-1 (Va. Ct. App. Oct. 2025) (unpublished opinion) |url=https://www.vacourts.gov/static/opinions/opncavwp/0737251.pdf |accessdate=2025-10-29}}</ref>

For coverage and context. See reporting on the trial-court suppression and the later appellate reversal.<ref>{{cite web |last=King |first=Katie |title=Norfolk judge rejects police Flock camera evidence without warrant |url=https://www.govtech.com/public-safety/virginia-judge-rejects-alpr-evidence-without-warrant |website=GovTech |date=2024-06-17 |accessdate=2025-10-29}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Flock Applauds Virginia Court of Appeals Ruling Affirming Constitutionality of LPR Cameras |url=https://www.flocksafety.com/blog/flock-applauds-virginia-court-of-appeals-ruling-affirming-constitutionality-of-lpr-cameras |website=Flock Safety |date=2025-10-14 |accessdate=2025-10-29}}</ref>

==Further reading==

*[https://deflock.me/ DeFlock: ALPR Location Map]
*[https://www.noalprs.org/ No ALPRs: Advocacy Group]
*[https://www.eff.org/issues/license-plate-readers EFF: License Plate Readers]
*[https://www.aclu.org/issues/privacy-technology/surveillance-technologies/aclu-works-stop-license-plate-reader-surveillance ACLU: License Plate Reader Surveillance]
*[https://www.wired.com/tag/automated-license-plate-readers/ Wired: Automated License Plate Readers]
*[https://www.vice.com/en/topic/automated-license-plate-readers Vice: Automated License Plate Readers]
*[https://www.technologyreview.com/tag/surveillance/ MIT Technology Review: Surveillance]
*[https://www.flock-restrictions.org/ Flock Restrictions: Policy Tracking]
*[https://www.urban.org/features/how-police-use-technology Urban Institute: Police Technology Use]

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

Proton Mail

2025-12-10T18:27:09Z

ClippyFellow47: Minor grammar edits to improve tone

{{Stub}}
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ProtonMail is a privacy-focused email client based in Switzerland, which has partnered with non-Swiss content delivery networks, such as Radware. ProtonMail offers cloud email, calendar, VPN, and cloud storage services, with a marketing focus on privacy that sets it apart from competitors like Google and Microsoft.

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

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

[https://www.reddit.com/r/ProtonMail/comments/1i2nz9v/on_politics_and_proton_a_message_from_andy/ Proton official response on the Proton subreddit]

Proton has created video conferencing integrations with Zoom, a non-private platform.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Proton opts for Zoom videoconferencing |url=https://discuss.privacyguides.net/t/proton-opts-for-zoom-videoconferencing/24569 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.ph/jCW4k |archive-date=2025-11-20 |access-date=2025-11-20 |website=Privacy Guides Community}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=How to add Zoom meetings to event invitations |url=https://proton.me/support/calendar-zoom |access-date=2025-11-20 |website=Proton}}</ref> 

==Harsh inactive account policy==
In 2022, ProtonMail announced a policy that entails the [[Inactive account deletion|deletion of inactive accounts]], resulting in major controversy. Many users have criticized the decisions and advocated for nuanced versions of inactive account policies, such as deleting only the email contents of any inactive Protonmail accounts instead of the accounts themselves, as the latter would reportedly result in major inconvenience for users who used the accounts as multiple-factor authentications for important services, such as banking. It has also been said that the harsh policy will adversely affect those who had good reasons to become inactive for a long time, such as hospitalization, prison incarceration, and being in totalitarian countries that have prolonged internet shutdowns.<ref>{{Cite web |last=ProtonMail |date=2022-04-14 |title=Protonmail's dormant policy is now in effect. |url=https://old.reddit.com/r/ProtonMail/comments/u3ejjp/protonmails_dormant_policy_is_now_in_effect/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.ph/sn16C |archive-date=2025-11-20 |access-date=2025-11-20 |website=Reddit}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-04-14 |title=Protonmail's dormant policy is now in effect. |url=https://old.reddit.com/r/DataHoarder/comments/u3g406/protonmails_dormant_policy_is_now_in_effect/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.ph/3QW7N |archive-date=2025-11-20 |access-date=2025-11-20 |website=Reddit}}</ref>

In response, ProtonMail added an exemption, where the inactive account policy would not apply to any accounts that had premium subscriptions at one point; however,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Update to our inactive account policy |url=https://old.reddit.com/r/ProtonMail/comments/uca15y/update_to_our_inactive_account_policy/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.ph/3y16r |archive-date=2025-11-20 |access-date=2025-11-20 |website=Reddit}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Ashwin |first= |date=2022-04-27 |title=ProtonMail will not delete user accounts for inactivity if the user had paid for a subscription at any point |url=https://www.ghacks.net/2022/04/27/protonmail-will-not-delete-inactive-user-accounts-for-former-premium-subscribers/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.ph/UmKca |archive-date=2025-11-20 |access-date=2025-11-20 |website=ghacks.net}}</ref> at one point, although the exemption was revoked as of 2024.{{CitationNeeded|reason=any official announcements?}}  ProtonMail accounts created before April 9, 2024, have a two-year grace period before being subject to the policy, as opposed to one year for newer accounts.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Inactive Accounts |url=https://proton.me/support/inactive-accounts |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.ph/A1R9B |archive-date=2025-11-20 |access-date=2025-11-20 |website=Proton}}</ref> In some cases, users have reported success in recovering their inactive accounts after being locked under the policy.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Account is no longer available due to inactivity |url=https://old.reddit.com/r/ProtonMail/comments/1i7gbd7/account_is_no_longer_available_due_to_inactivity/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.ph/PwpYM |archive-date=2025-11-20 |access-date=2025-11-20 |website=Reddit}}</ref>

As of 2025, many users continue to voice their concerns regarding the inactive account policy, advocating for sensible measures such as deleting only the contents of inactive accounts while sparing the accounts themselves.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Inactive account policy - keep account when deleting data {{!}} How can we improve Proton? |url=https://protonmail.uservoice.com/forums/945460-general-ideas/suggestions/48235556-inactive-account-policy-keep-account-when-deleti |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.ph/15xvr |archive-date=2025-11-20 |access-date=2025-11-20 |website=protonmail.uservoice.com}}</ref>

The Proton team has stated on Reddit that the inactive account policy aims to "manage their resources in a sustainable way". In the comments, it was noted that retaining the accounts themselves indefinitely and only purging their contents would not noticeably increase operating costs compared to deleting entire accounts, given that login information is all that would have to be retained. ProtonMail also does not allow registering email accounts with the same address as deleted email accounts to prevent impersonation, which would be possible only because it retains the deleted email addresses in its records.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-04-09 |title=Proton's New Policy for Free Inactive Accounts |url=https://old.reddit.com/r/ProtonMail/comments/1bzt1ka/protons_new_policy_for_free_inactive_accounts/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.ph/b6w8s |archive-date=2025-07-06 |access-date=2025-11-20 |website=Reddit}}</ref> 

==Data portability==
Until around 2023, there was no way for users without a paid subscription to create local backups of all of their emails at once (an example of [[data lock-in]]). Paying users could utilize the Proton Mail Bridge to download their emails via the IMAP protocol using an external client, such as Thunderbird or Outlook. In contrast, free users were limited to downloading each email individually, making it impractical for backup purposes.<ref>{{Cite web |title=How to export and import emails |url=https://protonmail.com/support/knowledge-base/export-import-emails/ |url-status=unfit |archive-url=https://archive.ph/2020.06.12-083856/https://protonmail.com/support/knowledge-base/export-import-emails/ |archive-date=2020-06-12 |access-date=2025-11-20 |website=ProtonMail}}</ref>

Since approximately 2023, Proton Technologies has offered an export tool that anyone can utilize.<ref>{{Cite web |title=How to export and restore emails using the Proton Mail Export Tool |url=https://proton.me/support/proton-mail-export-tool |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.ph/xTKrm |archive-date=2025-11-05 |access-date=2025-11-20 |website=Proton}}</ref>

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

BMW feature lockout scandal

2025-12-10T17:27:15Z

ClippyFellow47: Minor grammar edits to improve tone

{{Tone}}

This article documents '''[[BMW]]'''<nowiki/>'s practice of including the hardware for its M adaptive suspension in many vehicles, while requiring customers to pay extra to activate the software that enables the feature. This model exemplifies modern consumer exploitation by eroding traditional notions of ownership and leveraging [[Subscription service|subscription services]] to control access to features that are physically present in a purchased product.

==Background==
Modern automotive manufacturers are increasingly using software and subscription models to control features within their vehicles.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" /> This approach differs significantly from older consumer protection issues, which focused on unsafe products or misleading advertising. BMW's adaptive suspension model is one example of how companies are shifting towards business practices that limit a consumer's [[Right to own|right to ownership]].<ref name=":1" />

==Adaptive Suspension as a Service==
BMW includes the hardware for its M adaptive suspension in many of its vehicles, but the customer must pay extra to activate the software that enables the feature.<ref name=":0" /> The way this is offered is as follows:<ref name=":0" />

*It is available as a factory option.
*It can be added to certain cars that weren't optioned that way originally via the 'connected drive store' in the car.
*It is available as a monthly or yearly subscription.
*It can be bought outright for a one-time charge of $500.

This means that even though a consumer has physically purchased the car with the suspension components, they do not have complete control or use of those components without paying an additional fee.<ref name=":0" /> The cost of the equipment was already included in the vehicle's price, meaning the customer is effectively paying twice for the same components.<ref name=":0">
{{cite web
|first=James
|last=Attwood
|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
|website=AUTOCAR
|url-status=live
|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250202040409/https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/bmw-will-not-charge-extra-activate-existing-functions-cars
|archive-date=2 Feb 2025
|access-date=19 Feb 2025
}}</ref>This represents a shift from traditional ownership models, where consumers have full access to the functionality of purchased goods.

This business model alters the definition of "purchase" and "own.” The consumer does not have complete control over the purchased item, as the manufacturer can effectively disable or restrict functionality through software. This raises questions about what it means to own a product if the manufacturer retains control over key features.

This practice is not an isolated incident. BMW has previously implemented similar business practices, such as charging a subscription fee for access to heated seats, despite the hardware being installed in the vehicle.<ref name=":1">
{{cite web
|first=Andrew J.
|last= Hawkins
|date=7 Sep 2023
|title=BMW drops plan to charge a monthly fee for heated seats
|url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/7/23863258/bmw-cancel-heated-seat-subscription-microtransaction
|website=The Verge
|url-status=live
|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250129020851/https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/7/23863258/bmw-cancel-heated-seat-subscription-microtransaction
|archive-date=29 Jan 2025
|access-date=19 Feb 2025
}}</ref> This demonstrates a pattern of behaviour that utilizes software to restrict a consumer's access to features they have already paid for.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" />

===Impact on consumers===
This incident highlights the following aspects of "new" consumer protection issues:<ref name=":1" />

*'''Control Through Software''': BMW controls access to the adaptive suspension through software, requiring an additional payment to unlock a feature that is already physically present in the vehicle.<ref name=":0" />
*'''Subscription Model''': The option of paying a monthly or yearly subscription to use the suspension exemplifies how companies are turning ownership into a service, rather than selling products outright.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" /> This model means that the customer is effectively renting a feature, rather than owning it.
*'''Erosion of Ownership''': The way that BMW offers this feature alters the definition of ownership, as the consumer does not have full control over the functionality of their vehicle, despite having already purchased the components that enable the adaptive suspension.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" />
*'''Exploitation of Legal Loopholes''': This practice is not explicitly illegal but exploits legal loopholes and relies on complexity to prevent resistance, which is a common feature of many new forms of consumer exploitation.
*'''Removal of the right to say no''': By including the hardware for the adaptive suspension in the vehicles, BMW effectively removes the consumer's right to refuse the sale or own a product outright without interacting with the manufacturer.<ref name=":0" />
*'''Difficult to Understand and Resist''': The way in which BMW offers its adaptive suspension, with the option of a subscription or one-time payment, is designed to be complex, creating a level of 'fatigue' that makes it harder for consumers to resist.<ref name=":0" />

==See Also==

*[[Software as a service]]
*[[Right to repair|Right to repair movement]]
*[[Subscription service|Subscription business model]]
*[[Mercedes Benz|Mercedes Benz disabling digital features]]
*[[Mercedes-Benz locks horsepower behind paid subscription]]

==References==

[[Category:Articles based on videos]]
[[Category:Incidents]]
[[Category:BMW]]
<references />

Chromium

2025-12-10T17:22:19Z

ClippyFellow47: Minor grammar edits to improve tone

{{ToneWarning}}

'''Chromium''' is a [[wikipedia:Free_and_open-source_software|free and open-source]] [[:Category:Web browsers|web browser]] developed by and primarily maintained by [[Google]].<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date= |title=Chromium |url=https://www.chromium.org/Home/ |url-status=live |access-date=2025-08-12 |website=The Chromium Projects}}</ref> Several major web browsers use Chromium as the base of their software, including [[Google Chrome]],<ref name=":0" /> [[Microsoft Edge]],<ref>{{Cite web |date=2019-05-06 |title=10 cool things to check out at Microsoft Build 2019 |url=https://blogs.microsoft.com/blog/2019/05/06/10-cool-things-to-check-out-at-microsoft-build-2019/ |url-status=live |access-date=2025-08-14 |website=blogs.microsoft.com}}</ref> [[Opera]]/[[Opera GX]],<ref>{{Cite web |date=2013-08-27 |title=Today, Opera 15 has been updated to Opera 16 |url=https://blogs.opera.com/news/2013/08/today-opera-15-has-been-updated-to-opera-16/ |url-status=live |access-date=2025-08-14 |website=blogs.opera.com}}</ref> [[Brave browser|Brave]],<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-08-14 |title=Brave - Homepage |url=https://brave.com/ |url-status=live |access-date=2025-08-14 |website=brave.com}}</ref> and others.

==Controversies==

===Manifest V3===
Manifest V3 is an update to the manifest structure used by browser extensions across the majority of the browser market, presented as an upgrade in security, privacy, and performance of these extensions.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Li |first=David |title=Resuming the transition to Manifest V3 |url=https://developer.chrome.com/blog/resuming-the-transition-to-mv3 |url-status=live |access-date=24 Mar 2025 |website=Chrome for developers}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=12 Sep 2024 |title=Overview and timelines for migrating to Manifest V3 |url=https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-edge/extensions-chromium/developer-guide/manifest-v3 |url-status=live |access-date=24 Mar 2025 |website=[[Microsoft]]}}</ref> The changes restrict the access browser extensions can have, thereby enhancing security by preventing them from loading remote resources immediately or significantly altering rendered content. These limitations effectively render the browser market's most effective ad-blockers ineffective.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Siddiqui |first=Aamir |date=17 Nov 2023 |title=Google's Manifest V3 changes will soon disable uBlock Origin on Chrome |url=https://www.androidauthority.com/google-chrome-manifest-v3-changes-3386506/ |url-status=live |access-date=24 Mar 2025 |website=Android Authority}}</ref> Despite the developers' efforts to bypass the issue using workarounds and updated versions of Manifest V3, the software's previous efficiency has not been fully restored. For example, blocked domains cannot be updated as conveniently.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Buria |first=Taras |date=3 Aug 2024 |title=uBlock Origin developer recommends switching to uBlock Lite as Chrome flags the extension |url=https://www.neowin.net/news/ublock-origin-developer-recommends-switching-to-ublock-lite-as-chrome-flags-the-extension/ |url-status=live |access-date=24 Mar 2025 |website=Neowin}}</ref> This manifest change is supported by leading Chromium-based browsers, making it challenging for other browsers to match previous ad-blocking capabilities without committing to retaining Manifest V2 (such as Firefox, which also utilizes Chromium-sourced manifests) or implementing their own ad-blocking solutions of varying<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sullivan |first=Edward |date=13 Mar 2024 |title=Manifest V3 & Manifest V2 (March 2024 update) |url=https://blog.mozilla.org/addons/2024/03/13/manifest-v3-manifest-v2-march-2024-update/ |url-status=live |access-date=24 Mar 2025 |website=[[Mozilla]]}}</ref>) or utilizing their own ad-blocking solutions<ref>{{Cite web |date=27 Jun 2024 |title=What Manifest V3 means for Brave Shields and the use of extensions in the Brave browser |url=https://brave.com/blog/brave-shields-manifest-v3/ |url-status=live |access-date=24 Mar 2025 |website=[[Brave]]}}</ref> of varied effectiveness.<ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Jun 2024 |title=Manifest v3 update: Vivaldi is future-proofed with its built-in functionality |url=https://vivaldi.com/blog/manifest-v3-update-vivaldi-is-future-proofed-with-its-built-in-functionality/ |url-status=live |access-date=24 Mar 2025 |website=[[Vivaldi]]}}</ref>

==Licensing==
Chromium's code is published under the 3-clause BSD license.<ref>{{Cite web |title=LICENSE |url=https://chromium.googlesource.com/chromium/src/+/master/LICENSE |url-status=live |access-date=2025-08-12 |website=Google Git}}</ref>

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

Autodesk

2025-12-10T17:20:05Z

ClippyFellow47: Minor grammar edits to improve tone

{{Incomplete}}{{ToneWarning}}{{CompanyCargo
| Founded = 1982
| Industry = Software
| Logo = Autodesk.png
| ParentCompany =
| Type = Public
| Website = https://autodesk.com
| Description =
}}
[[wikipedia:Autodesk|'''Autodesk, Inc.''']] is an American software company headquartered in San Francisco, California, that provides software products and services for the architecture, engineering, construction, manufacturing, media, education, and entertainment industries. The company was founded in 1982 by John Walker, who was a co-author of the first versions of AutoCAD.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Williams |first=Alex |date=6 Mar 2024 |title=John Walker, Tech Executive Who Popularized AutoCAD, Dies at 74 |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2024/03/06/technology/john-walker-dead.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250708174807/https://www.nytimes.com/2024/03/06/technology/john-walker-dead.html |archive-date=8 Jul 2025 |access-date=2 Aug 2025 |website=The New York Times}}</ref>

Autodesk primarily develops and maintains computer-aided design (CAD) software used globally across many engineering and design industries. Autodesk's extensive portfolio of proprietary software enables its programs to interoperate, facilitating cloud-based building information management (BIM) collaboration among owners, architects, engineers, and contractors.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Autodesk BIM Collaborate Pro: Create, collaborate, and stay up to date |url=https://www.autodesk.com/products/bim-collaborate/overview?plc=COLLRP&term=1-YEAR&tab=subscription |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250130014051/https://www.autodesk.com/products/bim-collaborate/overview?plc=COLLRP&term=1-YEAR&tab=subscription |archive-date=30 Jan 2025 |access-date=2 Aug 2025 |website=[[Autodesk]]}}</ref>

Modern versions of Autodesk Products, such as Inventor or AutoCAD, have been known to operate via [[Digital rights management#Always-online DRM|always-online DRM]]<ref>{{Cite web |title=Install network licensing software |url=https://www.autodesk.com/support/download-install/admins/network-deploy/install-licensing-software |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250130014417/https://www.autodesk.com/support/download-install/admins/network-deploy/install-licensing-software |archive-date=30 Jan 2025 |access-date=2 Aug 2025 |website=[[Autodesk]]}}</ref> and have served to provide significant inconvenience for consumers if their internet goes out or their license verification servers are offline for maintenance

==Consumer impact summary==

==='''User Freedom'''===
Autodesk ceased to sell perpetual licenses for HSMWorks (2016) and will eliminate access altogether (2025–2028), rendering locally stored information unusable{{Citation needed}}.

Future Fusion versions will lack support for Windows 10, with unclear implications for existing installations{{Citation needed}}.

==='''Business Model'''===
Transition from perpetual licenses to subscriptions (2016) and removal of legacy entitlements (e.g., HSMWorks from Fusion 360), in addition to the refusal to honor permanent licenses (e.g., Product Design Suite 2013){{Citation needed}}.

In the End User License Agreement (EULA) for Autodesk products, section 9.7 allows Autodesk to audit a users premises to verify compliance{{Citation needed}}. If the user or company is found to have overextended licenses, Autodesk requires the user to purchase additional licenses to cover the overextended licenses in question. However, the software does not limit the number of machines that can sign in and activate it simultaneously. Autodesk compliance agents threatened to increase fines if legal counsel is hired against Autodesk. <ref>{{Cite web |last=Vondran |first=Steve |date=2023-04-12 |title=Autodesk Internal Getting Very Aggressive in 2023 Beware of Over-Assigning Licenses |url=https://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/autodesk-internal-getting-very-7707218/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250730215441/https://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/autodesk-internal-getting-very-7707218/ |archive-date=2025-07-30 |access-date=2025-10-23}}</ref>

==='''Market Control'''===
Autodesk holds a majority of the market share on CAD software, especially in the BIM category{{Citation needed}}. This allows Autodesk to significantly raise its prices each year.

==Controversies==

{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Controversy
!Year
!Background Info
!Aftermath
!Related Article
!Related Video(s)
|-
|HSMWorks End of Life
|2028
|In 2012, Autodesk acquired HSMWorks, a computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) product for programming Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines, with the intention of integrating the technology into its own software and cloud services.<ref>{{Cite web |date=1 Oct 2012 |title=Autodesk Acquires HSMWorks Technology |url=https://investors.autodesk.com/news-releases/news-release-details/autodesk-acquires-hsmworks-technology |access-date=2 Aug 2025 |website=[[Autodesk]]}}</ref> HSMWorks could continue to be purchased with a perpetual license until 2016, when Autodesk announced that all Autodesk products, including HSMWorks, would transition to a subscription model, ending support and maintenance plans for perpetual licenses.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Johnson Swan |first=Keli |date=14 Jun 2021 |title=Recent Developments in Autodesk Licensing and Audits, Part I |url=https://scottandscottllp.com/recent-developments-in-autodesk-licensing-and-audits-part-i/#:~:text=Autodesk%20introduced%20subscription%20plans%20in,previous%20versions%20of%20perpetual%20software. |access-date=2 Aug 2025 |website=scottandscottllp.com}}</ref> In 2019, Autodesk transitioned HSMWorks subscribers to Fusion 360 subscribers, granting them entitlement to download and use HSMWorks.<ref>{{Cite web |date=23 Apr 2019 |title=HSMWorks 2020 now included with Fusion 360 subscriptions |url=https://www.autodesk.com/support/technical/article/caas/tsarticles/ts/4ZktnaH9yvV8DxOnwA0LCv.html |access-date=2 Aug 2025 |website=[[Autodesk]]}}</ref> In February 2025, Autodesk sent an email to Fusion 360 subscribers that HSMWorks entitlement would no longer be included on new subscriptions after March 25, 2025. and entitlement would end March 25, 2028, for all subscribers. "''At that point, you will no longer be able to download, access, '''or use''' HSMWorks.''"<ref>{{Cite web |last=@lenny_1962 |date=3 Feb 2025 |title=HSMWorks End Of Life March 25th, 2028 |url=https://forums.autodesk.com/t5/hsm-support-forum/hsmworks-end-of-life-march-25th-2028/td-p/13297431 |access-date=2 Aug 2025 |website=[[Autodesk]]}}</ref>
|'''Projected aftermath:'''
Because HSMWorks was subscription-only, or entitlement was only available through a Fusion 360 subscription, from 2016 onward, any person or organization that used up-to-date versions of HSMWorks since then will cease to have access to all data associated with HSMWorks, despite the data being locally stored and HSMWorks being installed (although unusable). HSMWorks data is not compatible with Fusion 360 nor Inventor CAM (products that share some technology with HSMWorks), thus, no solution exists to bridge users' data to actively supported software.
|
|
|-
|Discontinuing Win 10 support
|2026
|In 2024, Autodesk announced that Autodesk Fusion would no longer be supported for Windows 10 users after the start of January 2026. Stated in their support article, "Autodesk will no longer consider Windows 10 for Validation, bug fixing, and product support of future releases." The phrasing has rightfully baffled consumers, and with a lack of elaboration from support teams, it is unclear whether existing installations will continue to function, especially since the line "existing installations cannot be repaired or reinstalled" is confusing and leaves questions unanswered.<ref>{{Cite web |date=4 Dec 2024 |title=Fusion Announcing End of Support for Windows 10 |url=https://www.autodesk.com/support/technical/article/caas/sfdcarticles/sfdcarticles/Fusion-Announcing-End-of-Support-for-Windows-10.html?_ga=2.208606034.1190329573.1738186074-1680147263.1738186073 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250130015007/https://www.autodesk.com/support/technical/article/caas/sfdcarticles/sfdcarticles/Fusion-Announcing-End-of-Support-for-Windows-10.html?_ga=2.208606034.1190329573.1738186074-1680147263.1738186073 |archive-date=30 Jan 2025 |access-date=2 Aug 2025 |website=[[Autodesk]]}}</ref>
|Discontinuation yet to occur
|[[Autodesk Fusion ends support for Windows 10]]
|
|-
|Ending existing lifetime subscriptions
|2023
|YouTuber Ian Davis owned a permanent, standalone license for Autodesk Product Design Suite Ultimate 2013, which failed to renew. Autodesk refused to issue a new license without an additional subscription purchase.<ref>{{Cite web |last=@amymuckin |date=21 May 2023 |title=Need Activation Code for AutoCAD 2013 (full version) |url=https://forums.autodesk.com/t5/previous-version-support/need-activation-code-for-autocad-2013-full-version/td-p/11978768 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250130014846/https://forums.autodesk.com/t5/previous-version-support/need-activation-code-for-autocad-2013-full-version/td-p/11978768 |archive-date=30 Jan 2025 |access-date=2 Aug 2025 |website=[[Autodesk]]}}</ref>
|None
|
|<nowiki>https://youtube.com/watch?v=OHY9K8X45XA</nowiki>
|-
|Telemetry bugs and harmful fines
|2017
|Consumers reported that Autodesk's telemetry on paid versions of software detected pirated versions of their software on PCs, and they explicitly received<ref>{{Cite web |title=AUTODESK ANALYTICS PROGRAMS |url=https://www.autodesk.com/company/autodesk-analytics |access-date=2 Aug 2025 |website=[[Autodesk]]}}</ref> on paid versions of software detecting pirated versions of their software on PCs, and they explicitly sent large fines as a punishment.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Autodesk detected pirated programs after purchasing licenses |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/Architects/comments/1ct8nqd/autodesk_detected_pirated_programs_after/ |access-date=2 Aug 2025 |website=[[Reddit]]}}</ref> This software has also been reported to malfunction, and Autodesk is allegedly pressuring consumers into purchasing expensive versions of their licenses.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Autodesk detected pirated programs after purchasing licenses (Reply) |url=https://www.reddit.com/r/Architects/comments/1ct8nqd/comment/lod8lo2/ |access-date=2 Aug 2025 |website=[[Reddit]]}}</ref>
|
|
|
|}

==Products==
*AutoCAD - Autodesk's flagship CAD software, used for freeform 2D and 3D design.
*Revit - 3D design software that is primarily used by architects, engineers, and structural designers to design, draft, and model buildings and other structures.
*Autodesk Inventor - 3D digital modeling
*Autodesk Fusion - 3D digital modeling
*Civil 3D - 3D design focused on civil infrastructure
*3ds Max - 3D Animation
*Maya - 3D Animation

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

ASUS downgrades a well-reviewed monitor panel

2025-12-10T17:13:55Z

ClippyFellow47: Minor grammar edits, will return to see if I can complete this.

{{Incomplete|Issue 1=External linking is not proper citation|Issue 2=convert to incident article using [[Template:IncidentPreload]]}}{{ToneWarning}}{{ProductCargo
|Company=Asus
|ProductLine=VG259QM 280hz IPS LCD
|ReleaseYear=2020
|InProduction=No
|ArticleType=Product
|Category=Monitor, Display
|Website=https://www.asus.com
|Description=280hz IPS LCD Monitor
}}The VG259QM 280Hz IPS 24.5-inch monitor was released in late 2020 with a [https://www.panelook.com/Q250HTA00-A000_AUO_24.5_LCM_overview_47755.html Qisda Panel] to excellent reviews.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Qisda Q250HTA00-A000 Overview |url=https://www.panelook.com/Q250HTA00-A000_AUO_24.5_LCM_overview_47755.html |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=Panelook.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Breton |first=Samuel |last2=Lim |first2=Ryan |last3=Khong |first3=Yannick |date=2020-08-25 |title=ASUS TUF Gaming VG259QM Monitor Review |url=https://www.rtings.com/monitor/reviews/asus/tuf-gaming-vg259qm |website=RTINGS.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Eberle |first=Christian |date=2020-09-14 |title=Asus TUF VG259QM Monitor Review: Ultimate 280Hz Gaming |url=https://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/asus-tuf-vg259qm |website=Tom's Hardware}}</ref> Users eventually noticed that their VG259QM monitors appeared as an inferior [https://www.panelook.com/M250HAN01.A_AUO_24.5_LCM_overview_52042.html AUO panel].<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=cmdrgod |date=2022-11-23 |title=The Official *Asus VG259QM* Owners Thread (+ Secret Overdrive) |url=https://forums.blurbusters.com/viewtopic.php?t=7414&start=590 |access-date=2025-10-26 |website=Blur Busters}}</ref><ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=djexpert |date=2022-08-04 |title=The Official *Asus VG259QM* Owners Thread (+ Secret Overdrive) |url=https://forums.blurbusters.com/viewtopic.php?t=7414&start=580 |website=Blur Busters}}</ref> This change occurred around the same time ASUS released the VG259QM as a new product (with the same product number) in Japan in 2022.

==Consumer-impact summary==
There was no indication on any website or on the packaging that this change had happened. The product retained the exact same model number after the panel change; the only indication of the panel change is in the service menu.

The user-reported inferior performance of the new panel, the lack of any indication of a change (except service menu), combined with the glowing reviews of the original monitor, has led some people to make the unsubstantiated claim that it's possible that ASUS may have kept the exact same model number to intentionally deceive consumers who read reviews and discourage reviews of the new panel. However, there is no direct evidence that ASUS deliberately intended to deceive the consumer or review sites.

The same model number also meant that while no one seems to have actually measured the performance of the AUO panel version, TechSpot made the monitor "Best of 2022", directly referencing the 2020 Tom's Hardware review of the VG259QM with the old Qisda panel.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Asus TUF Gaming VG259QM 24.5" |url=https://www.techspot.com/products/monitors/asus-vg259qm.217665/ |website=TechSpot}}</ref>

==Details==
On 23 Nov 2022, cmdrgod sounds the alarm about the panel change on blurbusters.com. He provides a comparison of service menus between his old VG259QM and the new one. He claims the new panel is much worse, and that ASUS support told him there was a shortage, and that this kind of switch is normal. <ref name=":0" />

On the previous page of the thread, user djexpert mentions that in Japan, the VG259QM was released as a "new" product in July 2022. His service menu shows an AUO panel.<ref name=":1" />

Guru3d also mention VG259QM as a 2022 "new" product.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hagedoorn |first=Hilbert |date=2022-07-22 |others= |title=ASUS VG259QM 280Hz / 1ms 24.5-inch Fast IPS gaming LCD |url=https://www.guru3d.com/story/asus-vg259qm-280hz-1ms-24-5-inch-fast-ips-gaming-lcd |website=The guru of 3D}}</ref> 

Due to the unfortunate incident of ASUS releasing two different products with identical model numbers, no one properly tested the AUO version, so there's no technical proof that the motion clarity is actually as bad as it appears to the human eye.

==See also==

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

Apple App Store

2025-12-10T00:45:13Z

ClippyFellow47: Major grammar edits to improve tone.

{{ToneWarning}}
[[File:App Store (iOS).svg|thumb|150px]]

'''[[Apple]]''' uses a range of technical measures to protect its App Store ecosystem and reduce consumer choice. These measures obscure the company's business intentions, creating roadblocks for app developers and users, while typically citing security reasons for their existence. This actively hinders lawmakers' ability to advocate for the rights of consumers and businesses within Apple's ecosystem and prevents apps from being as useful as their customers expect.

A never-ending demand for a cut of every sale of a digital product, ranging from game currency to supporting content creators<ref name="patreon">{{Cite web |last=Roth |first=Emma |date=12 Aug 2024 |title=Patreon: adding Apple’s 30 percent tax is the price of staying in the App Store |url=https://www.theverge.com/2024/8/12/24218629/patreon-membership-ios-30-percent-apple-tax |url-status=live |access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[The Verge]]}}</ref> to booking a Zoom call with a local business<ref name="facebook">{{Cite web |last=Paul |first=Katie |last2=Nellis |first2=Stephen |date=28 Aug 2020 |title=Exclusive: Facebook says Apple rejected its attempt to tell users about App Store fees |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-facebook-apple-exclusive/exclusive-facebook-says-apple-rejected-its-attempt-to-tell-users-about-app-store-fees-idUSKBN25O042/ |url-status=live |access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[Reuters]]}}</ref>, hinders app developers from innovating. These developers, working hard and pulling countless hours to build a quality app, always need to take Apple's (and [[Google]]'s) demands into account - specifically, a fee of between 15% and 30% of all revenue collected via the app. This is revenue that can be reinvested in the app; however, it must be earmarked for the platforms they are '''required''' to use to reach their customers.

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

This being a significant threat to Apple's revenue stream (interestingly, one they claim to be unsure is profitable<ref>{{Cite web |last=Lovejoy |first=Ben |date=17 Apr 2024 |title=Schiller doesn’t know whether the App Store is profitable; there are no minutes of meetings |url=https://9to5mac.com/2024/04/17/app-store-is-profitable-apple-notes/ |url-status=live |access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[9to5Mac]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Lovejoy |first=Ben |date=17 Jan 2025 |title=Apple denies App Store profit margin is 75% – claims to have no clue |url=https://9to5mac.com/2025/01/17/apple-denies-app-store-profit-margin-is-75-claims-to-have-no-clue/ |url-status=live |access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[9t05Mac]]}}</ref>), they have responded with practices such as geo-blocking certain operating system functionality based on physical location,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Eligibility |url=https://theapplewiki.com/wiki/Eligibility |url-status=live |access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[The Apple Wiki]]}}</ref> misrepresenting/overstating risks, and using careful wording with commonly-understood terms to describe unreasonably difficult-to-use systems.

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

==Background info==
Important terms you'll run into in this article:

*'''[[wikipedia:Sandbox (computer security)|Sandbox]]''': Reduces the user's device/data exposure to security risks by reducing what an app is allowed to do.
*'''[https://theapplewiki.com/wiki/Entitlements Entitlements]''': Apple's method of "poking holes" in the sandbox to give the app more permissions. Some are available to developers, while many are only available to Apple.
*'''[[wikipedia:Digital Markets Act|Digital Markets Act]]''': The European Union's fairly sweeping recent regulations against forcing companies they classify as "gatekeepers" to play nice, giving smaller businesses access to software/hardware features they've historically reserved for their own use.

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

Apple requires that any purchase of a digital good or service within an app use its in-app purchase system. This may seem reasonable because the customer may inevitably call Apple support, demanding a refund for an app they have issues with. Apple would rather provide a refund and leave the customer with a positive support experience than initiate a messy process involving contact with a third party, whose customer service is likely to be of a lower quality.

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

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

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

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

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

Despite criticism of Apple forcing its fee into transactions with small businesses and creators on platforms such as [[#Patreon|Patreon]] and [[#Facebook online events|Facebook]], on January 23, 2025, Apple announced the Advanced Commerce API. It "support[s] developers' evolving business models - such as extensive content catalogs, creator experiences, and subscriptions with optional add-ons".<ref>{{Cite web |date=23 Jan 2025 |title=Introducing the Advanced Commerce API |url=https://developer.apple.com/news/?id=yxy958ya |url-status=live |access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[Apple Developer]]}}</ref> While positioned as a way for such businesses to save development time and avoid ongoing costs by building on top of Apple's mature payments platform, its use is, in fact, necessary for these businesses to comply with the App Store guidelines, as seen in the cases outlined below. The feature requires submitting a description of the app's business model to Apple for approval. This continues a trend of requiring Apple's consent to conduct business in a place where users have been trained to expect it.

Given Apple's strong incentives and a ticking clock as legal pressure builds, it is not hard to find stories from app developers regarding poor experiences with Apple's app review process.

:''This list is extremely incomplete. Please add examples if you know of any.''

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Apple disagreed, requiring the feature to use the in-app purchases system. This introduced Apple's 30% fee. As this increases the price the user pays, with no benefit to the small business the user intended to support, the cost was displayed as a line item in checkout. Apple did not accept this disclosure of the price, referring to it as "irrelevant".<ref name="facebook" /> Facebook was allowed to compromise on displaying the fee, but ''without'' indicating that it is specifically an App Store fee.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

==JIT==
The following paragraph is highly technical: JIT allows for speedy programs/apps, and due to its fast nature, it's used almost everywhere and represents a massive improvement over older code interpreters.

[[wikipedia:Just-in-time compilation|JIT]], which stands for Just-In-Time, is a method of code execution where code, instead of being compiled before being distributed (like an EXE), gets compiled into machine code in real time right before being executed. This method of code execution allows for much faster website loading times, speedier emulation, faster program execution (with programs written in JavaScript, Python, Lua...) compared to interpreters, which instead translate code into machine code line by line, which is much, much slower; JIT also employs many more optimization techniques meant to improve performance.

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

Third-party apps, such as Pythonista (a Python IDE), emulators like Delta and UTM, and terminal environments like iSH, are not allowed to use JIT; instead, they must interpret code, which results in severe performance degradation and increased computational expense, potentially draining more battery.

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

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

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

==Sandbox==
Sandboxing is a powerful security feature used on all modern platforms, from Windows to iOS, and it's used because most programs need only a few basic permissions. While sandboxing is a great security measure, users may sometimes want to develop or create programs that run outside the sandbox with fewer restrictions. When a program requires additional permissions beyond what the sandbox typically allows, the user is prompted with a permission request, which is particularly useful for basic programs (such as a flashlight app) that need access to sensitive information, like contacts.

As established in previous sections, a program can be granted more access to system features through entitlements. These come in different types:

*'''Completely safe''': Entitlements any developer can opt into, with little to no risk.
*'''Approval required''': Entitlements that might be more of a security risk to allow, e.g., giving considerably wider access to the system, or that Apple simply doesn't want to hand out to just ''anyone'' for competitive reasons. The developer must submit a request to Apple, accompanied by evidence of why they require the entitlement.
*'''Private''': Entitlements that are never allowed for any app developer to use. Many of these are reasonably fenced off because they handle user data that is highly sensitive, or bypass permission prompts, and so on, but can also be guarding features that Apple wants to keep private.

There have been [https://gizmodo.com/researchers-uber-s-ios-app-had-secret-permissions-that-1819177235 exceptions] where Apple quietly granted a company access to private entitlements, which has raised eyebrows.

On iOS, you also can't be ''more'' secure than the default, strictest sandbox. On macOS, there are several entitlements you must declare to decide whether you're allowed to access certain types of user data at all. Android has used this design from the very start - you can't even perform fundamental tasks, such as accessing the internet, without declaring it in your manifest. It makes it very explicit what the app's intentions are.

iOS has one sandbox used by all App Store apps. System apps and App Store apps developed by Apple are permitted to adjust their sandbox permissions as needed. Third-party apps do not get the right to expand or reduce their sandbox permissions at all. This is clearly less secure. To retake the example of Playgrounds, while it's allowed to run your code from a separate process executing in an ultra-locked-down sandbox with very few permissions, competing apps such as Pythonista must run your code in the same sandbox and address space as the primary app process. The Python interpreter crashing would therefore crash the entire app, possibly losing work. In the worst case, a vulnerability in third-party code could give access to all data stored by/accessible to the app. For example, it would be a nightmare if you accidentally tapped the wrong link in Safari and had a hacker easily steal your cookies from other websites. If that third-party code could run in its own limited sandbox, the risk is significantly reduced.

The only known workaround is to execute the code via JavaScript, as Apple's JavaScriptCore engine runs in a heavily sandboxed process. This requires you to port the code to JavaScript, which may be a lot of work or not viable. You wouldn't want to run the Python interpreter inside JavaScript - the performance would be terrible!

==In-app browsers==
Safari's in-app browser, which is the minimal version you get when tapping a link from social media, uses an entirely separate data store for each app. The in-app browser isn't aware of cookies in the "full" Safari app, or any other app, and doesn't support Safari extensions. Apple claimed this was to protect users from malicious apps stealing or setting cookies in Safari without their knowledge, which is a fair argument. However, it's hard not to notice that it makes web browsing inconvenient, encouraging users to install native apps where they can make transactions through Apple.<ref>{{Cite web |last=@whitehatguy |date=12 Jun 2017 |title=Impact of iOS 11 no longer providing shared cookies between Safari, Safari View Controller instances |url=https://github.com/openid/AppAuth-iOS/issues/120 |url-status=live |access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[GitHub]]}}</ref>

This also means that your browsing history in the in-app browser is lost; there's no history menu, and it is not logged to the history in the full Safari app either. Good luck recalling that article you read a few weeks ago.

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

==References==
<references />

[[Category:Apple App Store]]

Audible

2025-12-09T18:33:09Z

ClippyFellow47: Minor grammar edits to improve tone.

{{StubNotice}}{{ToneWarning}}{{CompanyCargo
|Founded=1995
|Industry=Entertainment
|Logo=Audible.svg
|ParentCompany=Amazon
|Type=Subsidiary
|Website=https://www.audible.com/
|Description=An audiobook and podcast service
}}

'''Audible''' is an audiobook and podcast service company owned by [[Amazon]]. The service platform has a dual content model that allows for individual purchases and downloads as well as streaming content available through a monthly subscription.

==Consumer-impact summary==
===Audiobook monopoly===
Amazon, the parent company of Audible, in collaboration with Apple Books (which would otherwise be its biggest competitor), controls approximately 80% of the audiobook market.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Mehta |first=Vaidehi |date=24 Sep 2024 |title=Authors Battle Amazon Over Audiobook Monopoly |url=https://www.findlaw.com/legalblogs/courtside/authors-battle-amazon-over-audiobook-monopoly/ |url-status=live |access-date=16 Sep 2025 |website=FindLaw}}</ref><ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Steinberg |first=Martin A. |date=25 Jun 2025 |title=ANTITRUST—S.D.N.Y.: Romance author’s claims of monopolization against Amazon Audible proceed |url=https://www.vitallaw.com/news/antitrust-s-d-n-y-romance-author-s-claims-of-monopolization-against-amazon-audible-proceed/ald01b74df89519124657a56b4e6c1589c2c8 |url-status=live |access-date=16 Sep 2025 |website=VitalLaw}}</ref> Audible itself is the world's leading retailer of audiobook purchases, with over 60% of domestic and global sales.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":2">{{Cite web |date=13 Jun 2024 |title=Amazon Audible Audiobook Antitrust |url=https://www.hbsslaw.com/cases/amazon-audible-audiobook-antitrust |url-status=live |access-date=16 Sep 2025 |website=Hagens Berman}}</ref>

===Exclusive file format===
Audible uses the AAX file format, which was developed by Audible and is [[DRM]]-encrypted,<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |title=All about AAX Files |url=https://filext.com/file-extension/AAX |url-status=live |access-date=16 Sep 2025 |website=FILExt}}</ref> making it so that only Audible-authorized players can play it.<ref name=":3" /><ref name=":4">{{Cite web |first= |date=10 Jan 2024 |title=Recommended AAX Player for Windows/Mac/Android/iOS |url=https://www.dumpmedia.com/audible-converter/aax-player.html |url-status=live |access-date=16 Sep 2025 |website=DumpMedia}}</ref> This creates an ecosystem lock-in<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" />, forcing users to rely on third-party software to break the DRM to listen to the audiobooks they have purchased outside of the Audible platform <ref name=":4" />, as evidenced by the multitude of converters that show up with a cursory "Audible AAX" search on any web browser.

===Geo-blocking===
Audible admits to restricting certain content based upon the geographic location of the user,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Update your country/marketplace |url=https://help.audible.com/s/article/update-your-country-marketplace?language=en_US |url-status=live |access-date=16 Sep 2025 |website=audible}}</ref> a practice known as {{Wplink|geo-blocking}}.

===Treatment of non-exclusives===
Audible has been accused of strong-arming authors into exclusivity deals<ref name=":0" /> by not only imposing higher distribution fees on non-exclusive distribution (75% in comparison to the 60% for exclusive distribution)<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" /> but also penalizing those who opt for non-exclusivity with practices such as reduced visibility of their titles, lower search rankings, diminished promotional opportunities,<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" /> and lower royalties (40% for exclusive deals, 25% for non-exclusive ones).<ref name=":1" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Scarcella |first=Mike |date=21 Jun 2025 |title=Amazon must face authors' lawsuit over audiobook distribution, US judge rules |url=https://www.reuters.com/legal/litigation/amazon-must-face-authors-lawsuit-over-audiobook-distribution-us-judge-rules-2025-06-11/ |url-status=live |access-date=16 Sep 2025 |website=Reuters}}</ref> For comparison, the actual cost of distributing the audiobooks is estimated to be around 5% to 10% of the sales price.<ref name=":0" />

==Incidents==
===Using credits to subsidize streaming service===
{{Main|Audible subsidizes its streaming plan via premium credits}}

In August 2025, Audible's new royalty structure took effect. It works by spreading the reader's plan value and premium credits across all books the reader listened to during the month, regardless of whether or not the audiobook was purchased or streamed using Audible's streaming service.

===Alleged non-consensual enrollment===
{{Main|Amazon sued for enrolling and charging customers into Audible without consent}}

Amazon, and Audible by extension, is currently facing a pending class-action lawsuit due to allegedly enrolling Amazon customers into Audible subscriptions without their permission. This is possible due to Amazon's [[forced retention of payment methods]] in which the company holds customers' card information for "faster checkout."

===Controversial encouragement of AI use===
As of 2025, Audible is planning to integrate AI Narration and Translation solutions later in the year, starting with a roll-out of select publishers,<ref>{{Cite web |date=13 May 2025 |title=Audible Expands Catalog with AI Narration and Translation for Publishers |url=https://www.audible.com/about/newsroom/audible-expands-catalog-with-ai-narration-and-translation-for-publishers |url-status=live |access-date=16 Sep 2025 |website=Audible}}</ref> which has been met with criticism by numerous writers, translators, and voice actors.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Knight |first=Lucy |date=13 May 2025 |title=Audible unveils plans to use AI voices to narrate audiobooks |url=https://www.theguardian.com/books/2025/may/13/audible-unveils-plans-to-use-ai-voices-to-narrate-audiobooks |url-status=live |access-date=16 Aug 2025 |website=The Guardian}}</ref>


==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]
[[Category:Amazon]]

Artificial intelligence

2025-12-09T18:25:51Z

ClippyFellow47: Minor grammar edits to improve tone, also, have made sure to do manual edits to maintain hyperlink.

{{Irrelevant}}{{ToneWarning}}

'''Artificial intelligence''' (AI) is a field of computer science that produces systems designed to solve problems that humans typically solve using intelligence. In the consumer and industry space, it is commonly referred to as chatbots or [[wikipedia:Large language model|large language models]] (LLMs), which have been a main focus of industry
since the November 2022 launch of [[ChatGPT]], with tens of billions of dollars in funding allocated to producing more popular LLMs. Also, a significant focus is on [[wikipedia:Text-to-image model|text-to-image models]], which "draw" an image using a written prompt, and less commonly, [[wikipedia:Text-to-video model|text-to-video models]], which extend the text-to-image concept across several smooth video frames.

So far, no AI solutions are intelligent. AI is not a new concept; it has been of interest since the 1950s. AI is a catch-all term; it encompasses many areas and techniques, so merely stating that something uses AI tells us little about it.

[[wikipedia:Generative artificial intelligence|Generative artificial intelligence]] models are trained through vast amounts of existing human-generated content. Using the example of an LLM, by gathering statistics on patterns of words that people use, the model can generate sequences of words that seem similar to what a person might have written. LLM does not understand anything; they cannot reason. Everything they generate is just a randomly modulated pattern of tokens. People reading sequences of tokens sometimes perceive things they think are true. Sequences that do not make sense to the reader, or that are false, are called [[wikipedia:Hallucination (artificial intelligence)|hallucinations]]. LLMs are typically trained to produce output that is pleasing to people, exhibiting [[dark patterns]]. For example, they often produce output which seems confidently written, use patterns which praise the user (sycophancy), and employ emotionally manipulative language.

LLMs are a glorified autocomplete. People are accustomed to interacting with others, and many overestimate the abilities of things that exhibit complex, person-like patterns. Promoters of “AI” systems take advantage of this tendency, using suggestive names (like “reasoning” and “learning”) and grand claims (“PHD level”), which make it harder for people to understand these systems.

From November 2022 to 2025, venture capitalists and companies invested hundreds of billions of dollars into AI but received minimal returns. When companies seek returns, consumers can expect that products may be orphaned, services may be reduced, customer data may be sold or repurposed, costs may rise, and companies may reduce staff or fail. Historically, AI has had brief periods of intense hype, followed by disillusionment, and “AI winters.”

The current well-funded industry of artificial intelligence tools has led to the rampant and unethical use of content. Startups aiming to develop AI services have been rapidly scraping the internet for content to train future models, and members of the field are concerned that they are approaching the limit of publicly available content to train from.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Tremayne-Pengelly |first=Alexandra |date=16 Dec 2024 |title=Ilya Sutskever Warns A.I. Is Running Out of Data—Here’s What Will Happen Next |url=https://observer.com/2024/12/openai-cofounder-ilya-sutskever-ai-data-peak/ |website=Observer}}</ref>

==Why is it a problem==
===Unethical training of data===
:Further reading: [[Artificial intelligence/training]]

Users' work is sometimes silently trained without their explicit consent, as was the case for [[Adobe's AI policy]].

===Privacy concerns of online AI models===
There are several concerns with using online AI models like [[ChatGPT]] ([[OpenAI]]), not only because they are proprietary, but also because there is no guarantee of where your data will be stored or used. Recent developments in local AI models offer an alternative to online AI models, as they can be used offline once downloaded from platforms like [https://huggingface.co/ HuggingFace]. Common models to run include Llama ([[Meta]]), DeepSeek ([[DeepSeek]]), Phi ([[Microsoft]]), Mistral ([[Mistral AI]]), Gemma ([[Google]]).

In some cases, these AI models can also be hijacked for malicious purposes. Demonstrated from the usage of Comet ([[Perplexity]]), users can run arbitrary prompts to the browser's built-in AI assistant via hiding text in the HTML comments, non-visible webpage text, or simple comments on a webpage.<ref>{{Cite web |date=Aug 20, 2025 |title=Tweet from Brave |url=https://xcancel.com/brave/status/1958152314914508893#m |access-date=Aug 24, 2025 |website=X (formerly [[Twitter]])}}</ref> These arbitrary prompts can then be exploited to hijack sensitive information, or worse, gain unauthorized access to high-value accounts, such as those for banking or gaming libraries.<ref>{{Cite web |date=Aug 23, 2025 |title=Tweet from zack (in SF) |url=https://xcancel.com/zack_overflow/status/1959308058200551721 |access-date=Aug 24, 2025 |website=X (formerly [[Twitter]])}}</ref>

==Further reading==
*[[Dark pattern]]
*[[Automatic content recognition]]
*[[Palantir]]
*[[Meta]]
*[[Yandex]]
*[[TikTok and AI-powered ad tracking]]
*[[Flock license plate readers]]
*[[Ring]]
*[[Waymo]]
*[[Google]]

==References==
{{Reflist}}

[[Category:Artificial intelligence]]

Amazon sued for enrolling and charging customers into Audible without consent

2025-12-09T18:18:11Z

ClippyFellow47: Minor grammar edits to improve tone

{{ToneWarning}}{{IncidentCargo
|Company=Amazon, Audible
|StartDate=2024
|EndDate=2025
|Status=Active
|ProductLine=Audible membership
|Product=Amazon Prime
|ArticleType=Service
|Type=Service Termination
|Description=Audible enrolled Amazon customers in Audible memberships without their knowledge or consent
}}'''[[Audible]]''', a subsidiary of Amazon, has two pending class action lawsuits against it for enrolling Amazon customers into the Audible membership without their consent and charging them the $14.95 monthly subscription fee<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |last=Stutland |first=Donielle |date=10 Jan 2025 |title=ADVERTISING—W.D. Wash.: Amazon and Audible can’t escape class action over auto-enrollment, (Jan 10, 2025) |url=https://www.vitallaw.com/news/advertising-w-d-wash-amazon-and-audible-can-t-escape-class-action-over-auto-enrollment/ald01d087b56ebb9f46a4a141a2e6b95e6cdd |url-status=live |access-date=18 Sep 2025 |website=Vital Law}}</ref>

==Background==
In Sherk v. Audible, the plaintiff alleges Audible enrolled existing Amazon account holders into Audible’s monthly subscription (“membership”) without their knowledge or consent.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Sherk |first=Grace |date=11 Mar 2025 |title=Sherk v. Audible, Inc |url=https://www.classaction.org/media/sherk-v-audible-inc-complaint_1.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=18 Sep 2025 |website=Class Action}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=2025-04-23 |title=Amazon Audible faces class action over unauthorized subscriptions |url=https://topclassactions.com/lawsuit-settlements/lawsuit-news/amazon-audible-faces-class-action-over-unauthorized-subscriptions/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250826232032/https://topclassactions.com/lawsuit-settlements/lawsuit-news/amazon-audible-faces-class-action-over-unauthorized-subscriptions/ |archive-date=2025-08-26 |access-date=2025-08-26 |work=Top Class Actions}}</ref> The complaint alleges that Audible utilized payment information already on file with Amazon, charged monthly membership fees, and made it difficult for users to discover, cancel, or obtain refunds for these subscriptions.

In Heck v. Amazon, the plaintiff used Amazon’s “FREE No-Rush Shipping” option, which came with a “digital reward.”<ref name=":2" /> She later discovered that redeeming this reward resulted in her personal and payment information being passed to Audible. The lawsuit alleges that Audible then enrolled her in a 30-day trial that automatically converted into a paid subscription unless it was affirmatively canceled. The plaintiff alleged she never received notice, confirmation, or cancellation information and was billed for several months without knowledge.

==Incident==
The plaintiff states that the victims of Amazon's enrollment in Audible had a difficult time cancelling the subscription service, which may be due to the company's failure to enact [[click-to-cancel]]<ref name=":0" /> that can result in customers continuing to be charged for the service during the time it takes them to cancel.

A similar lawsuit was filed on January 10, 2025, claiming that Amazon would pass consumer information to Audible, which would then sign up consumers for a free trial.<ref name=":2" /> After the free trial expired, the consumer would be transitioned to a paid subscription without notification.

===Corporate response===
Amazon and Audible responded to Heck’s claims by arguing that they had no duty to disclose any link between "No-Rush Shipping" rewards and Audible enrollment, since the rewards were marketed as digital credits and any Audible trial was separate, voluntary, and disclosed.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |last=Chun |first=John |date=8 Jan 2025 |title=ORDER DENYING MOTION TO DISMISS |url=https://www.courthousenews.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/heck-v-amazon-ucsd-western-washington-opinion.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=18 Sep 2025 |website=courthousenews.com}}</ref> They contended that Heck failed to show reliance or causation, as her choice of "No-Rush Shipping" was motivated by free shipping rather than Audible. They further claimed compliance with the California Auto-Renewal Law by providing clear terms, obtaining consent, and sending acknowledgment emails, suggesting that Heck either ignored or forgot these notices. Drawing on ''Viveros v. Audible'', they insisted that the signups were transparent and optional, meaning Heck must have given consent. Finally, they questioned whether she had suffered any real injury, noting that she had received both rewards and the Audible trial and could have canceled before charges accrued, making her losses the result of her own inaction rather than deception.

The court rejected most of these arguments at the dismissal stage.<ref name=":3" /> It found that Heck plausibly alleged non-disclosure, lack of consent, and ARL violations, which are sufficient to proceed. Notably, the court noted that the situation was unlike Viveros, as Heck alleged; she was enrolled in Audible without realizing it, whereas Viveros involved consumers knowingly signing up.

==Lawsuit==
In ''Sherk v. Audible'', the plaintiffs claim that customers were enrolled in Audible memberships without their consent, often without realizing they had been signed up at all.<ref name=":1" /> Audible allegedly used personal and billing information already stored in Amazon accounts to facilitate these enrollments and failed to provide explicit written confirmation or conspicuous notice of recurring charges. Many customers only discovered their membership after receiving unexpected billing, and, according to the complaint, Audible made cancellation difficult, with some users continuing to be charged even after attempting to cancel their membership. The lawsuit further alleges that many of these “nonconsensual enrollees” never used Audible’s services and that Audible either knew or should have been aware of the widespread problem, given numerous complaints on public forums and consumer watchdog sites. Despite this knowledge, Audible is accused of failing to correct the practice because it generated revenue. Additionally, Audible allegedly restricted refunds, making it difficult for customers to recover payments, and was therefore unjustly enriched by retaining subscription fees from customers who had never agreed to join. The plaintiffs seek restitution and disgorgement of these funds as relief.

In ''Heck v. Amazon.com Inc.'', the plaintiff alleges that Amazon and its subsidiary Audible automatically enrolled her in an Audible membership without her knowledge or consent after she selected the “No-Rush Shipping” option for Amazon Prime orders, which provided digital rewards.<ref name=":2" /> Heck claims that she was never informed that redeeming these rewards would result in an Audible trial that would automatically convert into a paid subscription, nor did she receive clear communications about the terms, cancellation policy, or how to opt out. She further alleges that Amazon had exclusive knowledge of this enrollment process and failed to disclose it, creating a situation in which she was charged $14.95 per month for services she did not knowingly subscribe to. The lawsuit asserts violations of California’s Consumers Legal Remedies Act (CLRA), the Unfair Competition Law (UCL), and the Auto-Renewal Law (ARL), focusing on non-disclosure, lack of affirmative consent, and the economic harm caused by these automatic charges. Relief sought includes damages and restitution for unauthorized subscription fees, highlighting the alleged deceptive practices and failure to obtain informed consent prior to billing.

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

,The below link includes the original Heck v Audible lawsuit:

https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/63576669/1/2/heck-v-amazoncom-inc/

The original lawsuit has some consumer responses that should be pulled and quoted here.

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Audible]]
[[Category:Amazon]]
[[Category:Articles requiring change in tone]]

Adobe

2025-12-09T18:14:48Z

ClippyFellow47: Grammar edits to modify tone.

{{Incomplete|Issue 1=Many claims made without proper citations.}}{{ToneWarning}}{{InfoboxCompany
| Name = Adobe
| Type = Public
| Founded = 1982
| Industry = Software
| Official Website = https://adobe.com/
| Logo = Adobe.svg
}}

[[wikipedia:Adobe_Inc.|'''Adobe''']] is a software company based in San Jose, California, that specializes in creative software, including photo editing, video editing, animation, illustration, web development, and more. Founded in 1982, the company developed the Portable Document Format (PDF) in 1992, along with a comprehensive suite of creative software. Widespread adoption of their products by novices, industry professionals, and nation-states has enabled Adobe to carve out a significant market share in the creative software industry. In FY24, Adobe's Digital Media Segment reported $15.86 billion in revenue to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). <ref>[https://www.adobe.com/cc-shared/assets/investor-relations/pdfs/adbe-2024-annual-report.pdf ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934] </ref>

==Consumer impact summary==

===Lack of ownership===
Adobe has switched from a perpetual license model to a subscription model (Creative Cloud).<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Cunningham |first=Andrew |date=2013-05-06 |title=Adobe’s Creative Suite is dead, long live the Creative Cloud |url=https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2013/05/adobes-creative-suite-is-dead-long-live-the-creative-cloud/ |url-status=live |access-date=2025-09-30 |website=Ars Technica}}</ref><ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Campbell-Dollaghan |first=Kelsey |date=2013-05-06 |title=Say Goodbye to Creative Suite: Adobe CS Is Now Creative Cloud |url=https://gizmodo.com/say-goodbye-to-creative-suite-adobe-rebrands-cs-as-cre-493155052 |access-date=2025-05-06 |website=Gizmodo}}</ref><ref name=":2">{{Cite web |date=2013-05-06 |title=Adobe heralds subscription-only future for Photoshop and Creative Suite |url=http://www.dpreview.com/news/2013/05/06/Adobe-kills-perpetual-licenses-as-creative-suite-moves-to-creative-cloud-cc |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130622072403/http://www.dpreview.com/news/2013/05/06/Adobe-kills-perpetual-licenses-as-creative-suite-moves-to-creative-cloud-cc |archive-date=2013-06-22 |access-date=2025-09-30 |website=Digital Photography Review}}</ref>

===Proprietary file formats===
Works created in Adobe software come in Adobe-exclusive file formats such as .psd for Photoshop<ref>{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Colin |date= |title=Most commonly used file types in Photoshop |url=https://photoshopcafe.com/commonly-used-file-types-photoshop/ |access-date=2025-09-30 |website=Photoshop CAFE}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Williams |first=Brendan |date=2023-10-12 |title=File Formats In Photoshop Explained (Complete List) |url=https://www.bwillcreative.com/file-formats-in-photoshop-explained/ |access-date=2025-09-30 |website=Brendan Williams Creative}}</ref> and .indd for InDesign.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Which File Format?: A Guide to INDD, IDML, INX and Everything In-Between |url=https://indesignskills.com/tutorials/open-indesign-files-in-earlier-versions/ |access-date=2025-09-30 |website=InDesign Skills}}</ref>

===Data breaches===
In 2013, Adobe disclosed a data breach affecting approximately 3 million customers. This number was later revised to approximately 38 million. <ref>{{Cite web |last=Finkle |first=Jim |date=29 Oct 2013 |title=Adobe data breach more extensive than previously disclosed |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/technology/adobe-data-breach-more-extensive-than-previously-disclosed-idUSBRE99S1DJ |website=reuters.com/}}</ref> This incident resulted in a $1,000,000 settlement and a commitment to implementing new security policies. <ref>{{Cite web |date=15 Nov 2016 |title=Adobe to Pay $1 Million, Update Security Policies to Resolve Multistate Investigation Into Data Breach |url=https://www.mass.gov/news/adobe-to-pay-1-million-update-security-policies-to-resolve-multistate-investigation-into-data-breach |website=mass.gov}}</ref> In 2019, researchers discovered that Adobe's Elasticsearch database was insecure, potentially exposing the information of approximately 7.5 million users. <ref>{{Cite web |last=Khandelwal |first=Swati |date=26 Oct 2019 |title=Unsecured Adobe Server Exposes Data for 7.5 Million Creative Cloud Users |url=https://thehackernews.com/2019/10/adobe-database-leaked.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com}}</ref> Breaches impacting U.S. federal agencies and Adobe Commerce/Magento stores also occurred in 2023 and 2024, respectively. <ref>{{Cite web |date=5 Dec 2023 |title=Threat Actors Exploit Adobe ColdFusion CVE-2023-26360 for Initial Access to Government Servers |url=https://www.cisa.gov/news-events/cybersecurity-advisories/aa23-339a |website=cisa.gov}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Sansec Forensics Team |date=1 Oct 2024 |title=Thousands of Adobe Commerce stores hacked in competing CosmicSting campaigns |url=https://sansec.io/research/cosmicsting-fallout |website=sansec.io}}</ref>

==Incidents==

===Transition to subscription-based software===
{{Hatnote|Read More: [[Adobe Lightroom]], [[Adobe Subscriptions]], [[Adobe CS Activation]] and
[[Adobe sued by FTC over hidden fees in subscription plans]]
}}

Adobe initially distributed its software with perpetual licenses, allowing its users to make a one-time payment to own and access a specific application or, through Adobe's Creative Suite, a collection of applications. In 2011, Adobe introduced Creative Cloud, a subscription service that provides users with access to individual applications or multiple applications for a monthly or yearly fee. In 2013, Adobe discontinued Creative Suite.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" /><ref name=":2" />

As of 2025, the only means to access up-to-date versions of many Adobe applications legally is through Creative Cloud. Additionally, the activation servers for perpetual licenses of previous versions of these applications have been shut down, which prevents consumers from activating the software using a legitimate copy and a serial number.

Creative Cloud offers various subscription options, including monthly plans (with monthly or annual billing) or prepaid yearly plans. There are also plans for individual applications and bundles containing multiple applications. Prices of individual applications range from $22.99 per month or $263.88 prepaid annually. The Creative Cloud Pro subscription, which includes 22 applications and additional extras such as 100 GB of cloud storage, is priced at $69.99 per month or $779.88 per year prepaid.

Plans billed annually but paid monthly have a cancellation fee 14 days after purchase. This fee is set at 50% of the remaining contract balance. For example, if the user cancels the plan in the seventh month of an annual plan that costs $69.99 per month, they will incur a fee of $174.98. Prepaid annual plans do not offer refunds or cancellation options after the 14-day period.

===Alleged use of user data for AI training===
{{main|Adobe's AI policy}}
Adobe has been accused of using user information for the purpose of training artificial intelligence. In 2024, Adobe updated its Terms of Service, granting itself a "non-exclusive, worldwide, royalty-free license" to users' content. This grants Adobe permission to reproduce, distribute, create derivative works from, publicly display, publicly perform, and sublicense their users' content. This change raises concerns over conflicts with existing non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) and intellectual property rights. Users were required to accept the new Terms of Service to access their previously stored content.

Adobe has stated that it does not use user content to train generative AI, but Adobe may use it for improving its machine learning systems, with an opt-out available. However, no opt-out option was presented during acceptance of the Terms of Service. 

===User documents forced into the cloud with no opt-out===
Some of Adobe's iPad applications, including, but not limited to, the digital painting application Adobe Fresco<ref>{{Cite web |author=PaulaArtist2 |date=2021-12-13 |title=[How To] Save work locally / work offline |url=https://community.adobe.com/t5/fresco-discussions/how-to-save-work-locally-work-offline/m-p/12390252 |access-date=2025-09-22 |website=Adobe Community}}</ref> and the document scanning application Adobe Scan<ref>{{Cite web |last=Tagra |first=Ria |date=2021-06-14 |title=Does Adobe Scan offer a way to not utilize the Adobe Cloud |url=https://community.adobe.com/t5/adobe-scan-discussions/does-adobe-scan-offer-a-way-to-not-utilize-the-adobe-cloud/m-p/12104402 |access-date=2025-09-22 |website=Adobe Community}}</ref>, require an account to access and do not offer any option to opt out of syncing all documents created in these applications with Adobe's cloud servers. Similarly, the new non-Classic versions of Lightroom are fundamentally built around uploading all images to Adobe's cloud.

There is no end-to-end encryption, i.e., Adobe has full access to all of these files. Disabling internet access allows you to work offline, but any files created in the affected apps will immediately sync to the cloud in the background as soon as the device is connected to a network again.

As an American company, Adobe is subject to the United States Cloud Act, which requires all US companies to grant the US government access to any user data, even if stored on servers outside their jurisdiction, and comply with requests to help with spy operations upon request.

===Tracking users' eBook reading activities===
In 2014, it was revealed that Adobe Digital Editions, Adobe’s e-book reading application, reported extensive information about users' reading habits back to Adobe. This included several unique identifiers, such as which e-books were added to the application, when each one was opened, and for how long, as well as the percentage read and page navigation information.

All of this information was transmitted completely unencrypted in plain text. This meant that someone else using the same public Wi-Fi as another user would have been able to track their reading activities in real-time, entirely undetected.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gallagher |first=Sean |date=8 Oct 2014 |title=Adobe’s e-book reader sends your reading logs back to Adobe—in plain text |url=https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2014/10/adobes-e-book-reader-sends-your-reading-logs-back-to-adobe-in-plain-text/ |url-status=live |access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[ArsTechnica]]}}</ref>

===User information leaks and data breaches===
In 2013, credit card information and personal data of 38 million users were exposed in a data breach.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Patel |first=Maaz |date=26 Mar 2023 |title=The Adobe Attack of 2013: A Cautionary Tale of Cybersecurity Failure |url=https://medium.com/@maazptl240602/the-adobe-attack-of-2013-a-cautionary-tale-of-cybersecurity-failure-1ef4ec74eb64 |url-status=live |access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[[Medium]]}}</ref>

In 2019, Adobe left approximately 7.5 million Creative Cloud customer records publicly accessible online due to gross negligence. The database was not protected with a password.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Cimpanu |first=Catalin |date=26 Oct 2019 |title=Adobe left 7.5 million Creative Cloud user records exposed online |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/adobe-left-7-5-million-creative-cloud-user-records-exposed-online/ |url-status=live |access-date=16 Mar 2025 |website=[ZDNet]}}</ref>

===Paywalls Pantone colors and changes user files===
Adobe and Pantone change colors in users' existing files in Photoshop and Illustrator to black unless they pay an additional $15/month. <ref>{{Cite web |title=You now have to pay to use Pantone colors in Adobe products |url=https://www.theverge.com/2022/11/1/23434305/adobe-pantone-subscription-announcement-photoshop-illustrator |website=The Verge}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Adobe Just Held a Bunch of Colors Hostage |url=https://www.wired.com/story/adobe-pantone-color-subscription-fee/ |website=Wired}}</ref>

==Products==

===Adobe Creative Cloud===
Adobe's previous line of creative software has been joined into a broader ecosystem called the ''Adobe Creative Cloud.'' The Creative Cloud includes updated versions of the previously purchasable software:

*Photoshop
*Lightroom
*InDesign
*After Effects
*Dreamweaver
*Illustrator
*XD
*and many more

Included with the Creative Cloud, depending on plan options, Adobe also offers cloud-based storage, typefaces, stock photos, and other stock files.

==References==
<references />
*{{cite web |author=((Wikipedia contributors)) |date=2025-02-03 |title=Adobe Inc. |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Adobe_Inc.&oldid=1273676016 |access-date=2025-02-06 |website=Wikipedia}}
*{{cite web |last=Rossmann |first=Louis |title=Adobe roofies all of their customers |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EXxMCm941WA |date=2024-06-07 |website=YouTube |access-date=2025-01-15}}

[[Category:Adobe]]

Allstate

2025-12-09T18:08:54Z

ClippyFellow47: Minor grammar edits.

{{StubNotice}}{{InfoboxCompany
| Name = Allstate
| Type = Public
| Founded = 1931
| Industry = Insurance
| Official Website = https://allstate.com/
| Logo = Allstate.png
}}

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

===Texas lawsuit (January 2025)===
{{Main|Allstate and Arity's alleged unauthorized driver data collection through mobile apps}}
Allstate, Arity, and their subsidiaries are currently defendants in a lawsuit filed by the state of Texas, which alleges multiple violations of data privacy regulations.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Stempel |first=Jonathan |date=13 Jan 2025 |editor-last=Gregorio |editor-first=David |editor2-last=Ellis |editor2-first=Aurora |title=Texas sues Allstate for collecting driver data without consent |url=https://www.reuters.com/technology/texas-sues-allstate-over-data-collection-cellphones-2025-01-13/ |url-status=live |access-date=24 Nov 2025 |website=Reuters}}</ref>{{Update needed|date={{subst:November}} {{subst:2025}}|reason=Progress?}}

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

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

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

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

==See also==

*[[:Category:Lawsuits]]

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

National Security Agency

2025-12-09T17:41:25Z

ClippyFellow47: Grammar edits also had to undo an edit, but it should still be functional with respects to the link to Wikipedia on the NSA.

{{StubNotice}}{{InfoboxCompany
| Name = National Security Agency
| Type = Government agency
| Founded = 1952
| Industry = Intelligence and counterintelligence
| Official Website = https://www.nsa.gov/
| Logo = NSA Seal of National Security Agency.png
}}

The [[wikipedia:National_Security_Agency|National Security Agency (NSA)]] is a member of the [[wikipedia:United_States_Intelligence_Community|United States Intelligence Community (IC)]] established in 1952. The NSA collaborates with universities, businesses, and other entities to enhance the United States' national security against both foreign and domestic threats.{{Citation needed}} Their methods have come under national scrutiny many times, most notably in 2013 when Edward Snowden blew the whistle on the NSA's mass warrantless surveillance of the American populace post-9/11.<ref>{{Cite web |date=11 June 2013 |title=Allies concerned about privacy, want answers about US surveillance programs |url=https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/allies-concerned-about-privacy-want-answers-about-us-surveillance-programs-flna6c10272406 |website=NBC News}}</ref>

==Incidents==

===Purchasing illegally-obtained data===
In January 2024, "NSA officials told [US Senator Ron Wyden] that not only is the intelligence agency purchasing data on Americans located in the US but that it also bought Americans' Internet metadata." Wyden also "suggested that the intelligence community might be helping data brokers violate an FTC order requiring that Americans [...] give informed consent before their data can be sold to third parties."<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Belanger |first=Ashley |date=26 Jan 2024 |title=NSA finally admits to spying on Americans by purchasing sensitive data |url=https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2024/01/nsa-finally-admits-to-spying-on-americans-by-purchasing-sensitive-data/ |website=Ars Technica}}</ref>

The FTC order in question is part of a settlement with X-Mode Social, Inc. and its successor, Outlogic, LLC. The order established a precedent prohibiting data brokers from collecting and selling sensitive consumer data without the consumer's explicit consent.<ref>{{Cite web |title=In the Matter of X-Mode Social, Inc., a corporation, and Outlogic, LLC., a Limited Liability Company {{!}} Decision and Order |url=https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/X-Mode-D%26O.pdf |website=Federal Trade Commission}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=12 April 2024 |title=FTC Finalizes Order with X-Mode and Successor Outlogic Prohibiting it from Sharing or Selling Sensitive Location Data |url=https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2024/04/ftc-finalizes-order-x-mode-successor-outlogic-prohibiting-it-sharing-or-selling-sensitive-location |website=Federal Trade Commission}}</ref> Notably, this order "seems to carve out exceptions for any [location] data collected outside the US and used for either 'security purposes' or 'national security purposes conducted by federal agencies or other federal entities.'"<ref name=":0" />

This incident may indicate pressure from the NSA on data brokers and collectors to continue violating privacy, adopting opt-in by default practices, and engaging in user tracking.

==See also==

*[[FTC settlement with X-Mode and Outlogic]]

==References==
<references />
[[Category:Articles in need of additional work]]
[[Category:Data collection]]
[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]

Mark Zuckerberg

2025-12-09T17:15:02Z

ClippyFellow47: General edits

''[[wikipedia:Mark_Zuckerberg|Mark Elliot Zuckerberg]]'' was born on May 14, 1984, and raised in Dobbs Ferry, New York.
==Professional background==
Zuckerberg is the co-founder, chairman, and CEO of Meta Platforms Inc., which is the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and other digital services. He launched "TheFacebook" on February 4, 2004, while he was studying psychology and computer science at Harvard University. Facebook, originally a campus directory to connect Harvard students, expanded rapidly, reaching one million users within a year and becoming the world’s largest social network by 2009.

==Stance on consumer rights==
Zuckerberg’s stance on consumer rights is marked by a pattern of reactive concessions under legal pressure rather than proactive protection. In 2002, he hacked Harvard's security system. He accessed students' ID photos to populate a website that would allow users to rate students by looks, FaceMash, which was shut down three days later by the University.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bellis |first=Mary |title=The History of Facebook and How It Was Invented |url=https://www.thoughtco.com/who-invented-facebook-1991791 |website=ThoughtCo.}}</ref> Publicly advocating for limited regulatory reforms, his actions regarding data privacy, antitrust, and civil rights prioritize Meta’s business model over consumer welfare. While he has consistently emphasized user control over privacy settings, his actions and business model reveal a pattern of undermining genuine data autonomy.

===Public statements supporting consumer control===
*2004: "People have very good control over who can see their information."<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |last=Balakrishnan |first=Anita |last2=Salinas |first2=Sara |last3=Hunter |first3=Matt |date=April 9, 2018 |title=Mark Zuckerberg has been talking about privacy for 15 years - here’s almost everything he’s said |url=https://www.cnbc.com/2018/03/21/facebook-ceo-mark-zuckerbergs-statements-on-privacy-2003-2018.html |work=CNBC}}</ref><ref name=":3">{{Cite news |last=Salinas |first=Sara |last2=Balakrishnan |first2=Anita |date=December 19, 2018 |title=Mark Zuckerberg has been talking and apologizing about privacy since 2003 - here’s a reminder of what he’s said |url=https://www.cnbc.com/2018/12/19/facebook-ceo-mark-zuckerberg-privacy-apologies.html |work=CNBC}}</ref>
*2010, "What people want isn’t complete privacy. It’s control over what they share".<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1">{{Cite news |last=Clifford |first=Catherine |date=October 24, 2019 |title=19-year-old Mark Zuckerberg: ‘Issues about violating people’s privacy don’t seem to be surmountable’ |url=https://www.cnbc.com/2019/10/24/19-year-old-mark-zuckerberg-on-privacy-issues-versus-today.html |work=CNBC}}</ref>
*In 2019, he acknowledged Facebook’s poor privacy reputation but pledged to build a "privacy-focused platform".<ref name=":1" /><ref name=":4">{{Cite news |last=Hern |first=Alex |date=March 7, 2019 |title=Mark Zuckerberg's privacy blogpost: what he did and didn't say |url=https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2019/mar/07/mark-zuckerbergs-privacy-blogpost-what-he-said-and-what-he-didnt |work=The Guardian}}</ref>

However, these statements often frame control narrowly, focusing on visibility settings rather than limiting Facebook’s own data collection or third-party sharing.

===Actions undermining control===
*Lax Data Policies: [[The Cambridge Analytica Scandal]] revealed that Facebook allowed third-party apps to harvest data from millions without explicit consent. Zuckerberg admitted, "[w]e simply did a bad job".<ref name=":0" /> Emails later suggested he was aware of privacy risks, but prioritized growth.<ref name=":2" />
*Deceptive Practices: The FTC found Facebook violated a 2012 consent decree by misleading users about data sharing.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Rushe |first=Dominic |date=June 12, 2019 |title=Facebook emails seem to show Zuckerberg knew of privacy issues, report claims |url=https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2019/jun/12/facebook-mark-zuckerberg-privacy-emails-report |work=The Guardian}}</ref> Attorney General Racine’s lawsuit accused Zuckerberg of personally enabling policies that exposed user data.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |title=AG Racine Sues Mark Zuckerberg for Failing to Protect Millions of Users' Data, Misleading Privacy Practices |url=https://oag.dc.gov/release/ag-racine-sues-mark-zuckerberg-failing-protect}}</ref>

*Opaque Controls: Privacy settings are buried and confusing. As critics note, "[o]ffering tools doesn’t help if they’re hard to find." One such example is ad-targeting controls being hidden under unrelated menus.<ref name=":5">{{Cite news |last=Barrett |first=Brian |date=April 10, 2010 |title=Mark Zuckerberg's Privacy Shell Game |url=https://www.wired.com/story/mark-zuckerbergs-privacy-shell-game/ |work=Wired}}</ref>
*Revenue relies on monetizing user data.
**"Zuckerberg’s Law": He predicted users would share twice as much data yearly, pushing openness over privacy.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":3" />
**Data Hoarding: Despite [[General Data Protection Regulation]] (GDPR) style pledges, Facebook resists limits on data collection, such as opposing regulations that would curb microtargeting.<ref name=":5" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Wheeler |first=Tom |date=2019-04-03 |title=Mark Zuckerberg’s call for internet rules only goes part way |url=https://www.brookings.edu/articles/mark-zuckerbergs-call-for-internet-rules-only-goes-part-way/ |website=The Brookings Institution}}</ref>

==Major consumer protection incidents==

===Cambridge Analytica Data Scandal===
The Cambridge Analytica scandal came to light when a former employee, Christopher Wylie, leaked internal documents to journalists. These documents demonstrated the uninformed consent for the collection of personal data from up to 87 million Facebook profiles, which served political advertising purposes through Facebook's Open Graph Platform and the Facebook application "This is Your Digital Life," developed by data scientist Aleksandr Kogan at Global Science Research.<ref>[https://www.cnbc.com/2018/04/10/facebook-cambridge-analytica-a-timeline-of-the-data-hijacking-scandal.html "Facebook-Cambridge Analytica: A timeline of the data hijacking scandal"] - cnbc.com - accessed 2025-02-03</ref> The appropriated personal data was used in the 2016 US Presidential election for Ted Cruz's and Donald Trump's campaigns.<ref>[https://www.businessinsider.com/cambridge-analytica-facebook-scandal-trump-cruz-operatives-2018-3 "There's an open secret about Cambridge Analytica in the political world: It doesn't have the 'secret sauce' it claims"] - businessinsider.com - accessed 2025-02-03 </ref>

'''Deceptive Marketing'''

In 2011, the FTC found Facebook guilty of deceptive practices, including sharing data with third-party apps without user consent and misrepresenting its privacy controls. Despite a 20-year consent order, Facebook continued to face allegations of similar violations, including post-2018 complaints about lax data policies.

A photo of Zuckerberg revealed in 2016 that he keeps his own laptop camera covered with tape.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-06-22 |title=Mark Zuckerberg Puts Tape Over His Webcam |url=https://abcnews.go.com/Technology/mark-zuckerberg-puts-tape-webcam/story?id=40040340 |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=abc News}}</ref>
==Regulatory response==
*Fines: Facebook paid five billion dollars to the FTC for privacy violations and faced lawsuits for deceptive practices.<ref name=":2" />
*Whistleblower Allegations: Internal documents show Zuckerberg prioritized engagement over safety, undermining claims of user control.<ref name=":4" /><ref name=":5" />

==Current status==
As of June 2025, Mark Zuckerberg remains the CEO and Chairman of Meta Platforms, Inc. (formerly Facebook). He continues to lead the company's focus on the ''metaverse'', artificial intelligence, and other emerging technologies.

===Recent developments===

*Meta's AI and Metaverse Push''':''' Meta is heavily investing in AI, including large language models (like LLaMA) and AI-driven products across Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp.
*Threads and social media: ''Threads'', Meta's answer to X (formerly ''Twitter), continues'' to grow, integrating more deeply with Instagram and the Fediverse (a decentralized social networking platform).
*Regulatory and Legal Issues''':''' Zuckerberg and Meta still face scrutiny over data privacy, antitrust concerns, and content moderation policies worldwide.

==Impact on consumer protection==
Mark Zuckerberg has significantly influenced consumer rights, both positively and negatively. His decisions have shaped digital privacy, data control, competition, and transparency, often sparking regulatory and public backlash.
*Data privacy and surveillance:
**Negative: Facebook (now Meta) has faced numerous scandals involving unauthorized data collection, including Cambridge Analytica (2018), where 87 million users’ data was harvested without consent.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Cadwalladr |first=Carole |last2=Graham-Harrison |first2=Emma |date=March 17, 2018 |title=Revealed: 50 million Facebook profiles harvested for Cambridge Analytica in major data breach |url=https://www.theguardian.com/news/2018/mar/17/cambridge-analytica-facebook-influence-us-election |work=The Guardian}}</ref>
**Positive: Meta introduced privacy tools and supported GDPR compliance in the EU, after the scandals.
*Algorithmic manipulation and mental health concerns:
**Negative: Studies revealed that Meta’s algorithms promoted harmful content, affecting mental health and spreading misinformation.<ref name=":6">{{Cite news |last=Wells |first=Georgia |last2=Horwitz |first2=Jeff |last3=Seetharaman |first3=Deepa |date=September 14, 2021 |title=Facebook Knows Instagram Is Toxic for Teen Girls, Company Documents Show |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/facebook-knows-instagram-is-toxic-for-teen-girls-company-documents-show-11631620739 |work=The Wall Street Journal}}</ref>
**Positive: Meta has since introduced wellbeing features, such as screen time limits and content warnings.
*Monopoly power and reduced consumer choice:
**Negative: Meta’s acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp led to antitrust lawsuits, limiting competition and consumer alternatives.<ref>{{Cite web |date=December 9, 2020 |title=FTC Sues Facebook for Illegal Monopolization |url=https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2020/12/ftc-sues-facebook-illegal-monopolization |website=Federal Trade Commission}}</ref>
**Positive: Some argue Meta’s ecosystem (Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp) provides convenience through integrated services.{{Citation needed|reason=Who is arguing this?}}
*Transparency and accountability:
**Negative: Facebook historically resisted transparency, including hiding internal research on harms.<ref name=":6" />
**Positive: Meta now publishes quarterly transparency reports on content moderation and government requests.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Transparency Center |url=https://transparency.fb.com/ |website=transparency.fb.com}}</ref>
*Ad targeting and consumer exploitation:
**Negative: Facebook’s micro-targeting has been criticized for enabling discriminatory ads <ref>{{Cite news |last=Angwin |first=Julia |last2=Parris Jr. |first2=Terry |date=October 28, 2016 |title=Facebook Lets Advertisers Exclude Users by Race |url=https://www.propublica.org/article/facebook-lets-advertisers-exclude-users-by-race |work=ProPublica}}</ref> and exploiting user behavior.
**Positive: Meta has restricted some ad-targeting categories (e.g., race, religion) in response to criticism.
The impact Mark and Meta have had on consumer rights is mixed. Meta has introduced some privacy and transparency improvements, but Zuckerberg's history of data exploitation, monopolistic behavior, and algorithmic harms has significantly weakened consumer trust. Regulatory pressure continues to shape Meta’s policies, but critics argue that more systemic changes are needed.

==References==

[[Category:Individuals]]
<references />

Echelon fitness firmware lockout

2025-09-11T17:39:32Z

ClippyFellow47: Grammar edits.

{{IncidentCargo
|Company=Echelon Fitness
|StartDate=2025-07
|Status=Active
|ProductLine=echelon exercie equipment
|Product=exercise equipment
|ArticleType=Product
|Type=Firmware lockout
|Description=Echelon pushed firmware updates blocking third-party apps, requiring server authentication & breaking QZ compatibility for users
}}A July 2025 firmware update pushed by Echelon Fitness retroactively blocked third-party fitness applications from connecting to their devices. The update affected users of QZ (qdomyos-zwift), an open-source bridging application that enables cross-platform compatibility with fitness platforms like [[wikipedia:Zwift|Zwift]], [[wikipedia:Peloton_Interactive|Peloton Digital]], & others.

==Background==

===QZ & cross-platform compatibility===
QZ (qdomyos-zwift) was created in September 2020 by Italian software engineer [[wikipedia:Roberto_Viola|Roberto Viola]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://robertoviola.cloud/2025/07/22/how-i-built-qz-and-how-echelon-is-now-breaking-it/ |title=How I Built QZ—and How Echelon Is Now Breaking It |author=Roberto Viola |date=22 July 2025 |access-date=23 July 2025}}</ref> The application functions as a Bluetooth bridge that intercepts proprietary communications from closed fitness devices & translates them into standard protocols compatible with other mainstream fitness platforms.

For almost five years, QZ maintained compatibility with Echelon devices. Viola notes that the app ''"helped Echelon sell tens of thousands of bikes"'' by making them compatible with multiple training platforms. Viola also recommended the Echelon as the ''"best indoor bike on the market."''<ref name="viola-blog">{{cite web |url=https://robertoviola.cloud/2025/07/22/how-i-built-qz-and-how-echelon-is-now-breaking-it/ |title=How I Built QZ—and How Echelon Is Now Breaking It |author=Roberto Viola |date=22 July 2025 |access-date=23 July 2025}}</ref> Before the incident, Echelon's official marketing materials explicitly promoted third-party compatibility. Their FAQ stated devices were designed to give users '''''"the flexibility to use your favorite devices"''''' & specifically mentions "third-party apps you can use as well."<ref name="echelon-faq" />

===Echelon's business model===
Echelon Fitness markets connected fitness equipment ranging from $500 entry-level models to $2,495 premium bikes. The company operates a subscription service priced between $29.99-$39.99 monthly or $399.99-$699.99 annually for access to live & on-demand fitness content.<ref name="echelon-faq">{{cite web |url=https://echelonfit.com/pages/app-faqs |title=APP FAQs |publisher=Echelon Fit |access-date=23 July 2025}}</ref>
[[File:Echelon.png|alt=Subscriptions from echelon's website [1]|thumb|Subscriptions from echelon's website <ref>{{Cite web |title=Choose your Premier Subscription – Echelon Fit US |url=https://echelonfit.com/collections/choose-your-united-sub?_ab=0&_fd=0&_sc=1}}</ref>]]

==July 2025 firmware update==
In July 2025, Echelon pushed a firmware update that implemented a server-based authentication system. The new system requires devices to:

*Connect to Echelon's servers during startup.
*Receive a temporary, rotating unlock key for device operation.
*Maintain internet connectivity for basic functionality.
*Block all third-party Bluetooth communications without server validation<ref name="viola-blog" />

According to Viola's technical analysis, the update is "non-reversible" - users cannot downgrade to previous firmware versions once installed.<ref name="viola-blog" />

===Technical implementation===
The firmware creates a '''boot-time server handshake''' requirement before any functionality is enabled. Devices send authentication requests to Echelon servers, which respond with rotating unlock keys. Without successful validation, devices become completely non-functional, including for basic manual workouts.<ref name="viola-blog" />

The system targets third-party apps explicitly through '''Bluetooth access control''' that only activates after server authentication. This hardware-level lockout cannot be bypassed through software, effectively transforming ownership into a subscription-based permission model.<ref name="viola-blog" />

===Impact on third-party applications===
The firmware update completely blocks QZ & similar third-party applications from communicating with Echelon devices. This affects advanced features like automatic resistance control and prevents basic manual workouts without internet connectivity & server approval.<ref name="viola-blog" />

==Consumer impact==

===Financial losses===
Users who purchased Echelon devices specifically for third-party compatibility are affected:

*Hardware investments ranging from $500 to $2,495 for devices
*Subscription costs of $29.99-$39.99 monthly to regain functionality
*Loss of free or alternative platform access previously enabled by QZ<ref name="viola-blog" />

One affected UK user commented: <blockquote>''"This is infuriating. I paid £1,199 for a bike in 2020, & a further £399 for 2 years of classes, so what I choose to do with the hardware I purchased outright is none of their business!"''<ref name="viola-blog" /></blockquote>

===Elimination of offline functionality===
The update removes all offline workout capabilities, requiring constant internet connectivity for any device operation. Users report being unable to perform basic manual workouts without server validation.<ref name="viola-blog" />

==Echelon's response==
===Press release===
On July 29, 2025, Echelon issued a press release announcing the implementation of "comprehensive security enhancements," including jailbreak detection mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access to their equipment.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/echelon-implements-advanced-security-measures-to-prevent-any-unwarranted-access-to-fitness-equipment-data-302208547.html |title=Echelon Implements Advanced Security Measures to Prevent Any Unwarranted Access To Fitness Equipment Data |publisher=PR Newswire |date=29 July 2025 |access-date=27 August 2025}}</ref> The company specifically targeted QZ developer Roberto Viola, describing him as a "bad actor" who "attempts to bypass Echelon's fitness ecosystem" by charging users $6.99 for access to unauthorized connections.

Echelon announced that they are "actively reviewing legal action under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) and other applicable laws" against third-party applications. The company stated that customers using applications like QZ would have their warranties voided for violating terms of service and "compromising the secure operation" of products.

CEO Lou Lentine framed the issue as protecting American intellectual property from "foreign individuals and entities," stating: <blockquote>"There are a few bad actors in the global marketplace who are constantly trying to shortcut the investments made by Echelon and other American companies—through fraud, copying, and stealing."</blockquote>

Concurrent with blocking third-party access, Echelon announced a new "Authorized Partnership Program" for companies seeking approved connections to their equipment. The program offers access to official APIs and developer support, though no timeline or application process was provided.

Echelon repositioned its offerings around two tiers:
*'''Freestyle Mode''' - Described as "no charge" but requires internet connectivity for "secure sign-in authentication"
*'''Premium Streaming Plans''' - Subscription plans starting at $19.99 monthly for access to classes and features

The press release did not address the removal of offline functionality or the impact on existing customers who had purchased devices with advertised third-party compatibility.

==FULU Foundation bounty==
After the story's initial publication, Louis Rossmann released a $20,000 bounty<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2zayHD4kfcA |title=Fulu Foundation offers $20,000 bounty to repair Echelon firmware lockout |author=Louis Rossmann |publisher=YouTube |date=July 2025 |access-date=27 August 2025}}</ref> for anyone who could create a method to bypass the restrictions placed on Echelon bikes. In August, the bounty winner was announced,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.404media.co/developer-unlocks-newly-enshittified-echelon-exercise-bikes-but-cant-legally-release-his-software/ |title=Developer Unlocks Newly Enshittified Echelon Exercise Bikes But Can't Legally Release His Software |author=Jason Koebler |publisher=404 Media |date=August 2025 |access-date=27 August 2025}}</ref> however, the solution used to claim the bounty was not released. Louis Rossmann stated that the reason for not releasing was the impact of a US law (17 U.S. Code § 1201), which prevents sharing methods to bypass a technological measure designed to manage access to a product.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=chPzslZKBhI |title=I started an organization to dismantle the DMCA - here's why |author=Louis Rossmann |publisher=YouTube |date=27 August 2025 |access-date=27 August 2025}}</ref>

==Consumer recourse==

===Immediate actions===
Roberto Viola made the following recommendations for affected users:
*'''Avoid all firmware updates''' & disable automatic updates.
*'''Delete the Echelon app''' to prevent forced updates.
*Make sure tablets can't access the internet independently.
*document current functionality for potential claims<ref name="viola-blog" />
If it prompts you to install a firmware update on reboot, you may avoid this by rebooting the bike again, then, in Wi-Fi settings at the first opportunity, entering a custom SSID and leaving it blank. For some reason, this appears to be the only way to get it to switch from an existing connection. You must again enter your actual Wi-Fi details on the member login screen.

===Optional actions===
You can lock the bike to a fixed resistance and use it as a basic exercise bike without innovative features. This is useful if you want to start a workout quickly without powering on the bike or adjusting the resistance again after pausing in the middle of a workout.

#Make sure the bike is plugged in.
#Begin pedaling so the bike powers on.
#Turn the resistance knob to your desired level. (It may take a moment for the knob to respond after powering on.)
#Unplug the bike — it will now stay locked at that resistance.
#If you want to change the resistance later, repeat the process.

==References==
<references />

==External Links==
*[https://robertoviola.cloud/2025/07/22/how-i-built-qz-and-how-echelon-is-now-breaking-it/ Roberto Viola's detailed technical analysis]
*[https://github.com/cagnulein/qdomyos-zwift QZ (qdomyos-zwift) GitHub repository]
*[https://github.com/cagnulein/qdomyos-zwift/issues/1752 GitHub Issue #1752 - Echelon connection problems]
*[https://www.classaction.org/news/ifit-class-action-says-software-update-left-fitness-equipment-totally-inoperable iFIT Class Action Settlement Information]

[[Category:CRW]]
[[Category:Incidents]]
[[Category:Fitness Industry]]
[[Category:IoT]]
[[Category:Firmware]]
[[Category:2025]]
[[Category:Right to Repair]]

ATSC 3.0

2025-09-10T21:14:01Z

ClippyFellow47: Minor grammar edits.

{{InfoboxProductLine
| Title = {{PAGENAME}}
| Release Year =2017
| Product Type =Television Transmission Protocol
| In Production =Yes
| Official Website =https://watchnextgentv.com/
| Logo =NextGenTVBug.png
}}

'''[[wikipedia:ATSC_3.0|ATSC 3.0]]''', also known as '''NextGenTV (in the US) or TV 3.0 DTV+ (in Brazil)'''<ref>{{Cite web |title=Decreto vai confirmar padrão ATSC e faixa de 300 MHz para a TV 3.0 |trans-title=Decree will confirm ATSC standard and 300 MHz band for TV 3.0 |url=https://telesintese.com.br/decreto-vai-confirmar-padrao-atsc-e-faixa-de-300-mhz-para-a-tv-3-0/ |website=Telesintese |language=pt-br}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Globo inaugura primeira estação de TV 3.0 do Brasil e inicia testes com DTV+ |trans-title=Globo inaugurates Brazil's first TV 3.0 station and begins DTV+ tests |url=https://www.minhaoperadora.com.br/2025/06/globo-inaugura-primeira-estacao-de-tv-3-0-do-brasil-e-inicia-testes-com-dtv.html |website=Minha Operadora |language=pt-br}}</ref>''',''' is a television protocol for terrestrial (over-the-air) broadcasting. It promises to deliver over 4K resolution and 120 FPS broadcast television using modern standards like HEVC, HDR, Dolby AC-4, and MPEG-H 3D audio, alongside better "interaction among the broadcasters and the users".

==Consumer impact summary==
NextGenTV has had privacy concerns over internet-based viewer metrics/analytics and targeted advertising, voiced by FCC commissioner Geoffrey Starks in 2020.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Balderston |first=Michael |date=29 Jan 2020 |title=Starks Warns of Potential Privacy, Data Issues With ATSC 3.0 |url=https://www.tvtechnology.com/atsc3/starks-warns-of-potential-privacy-data-issues-with-atsc-3-0 |url-status=live |access-date=28 Mar 2025 |website=tvtech}}</ref> More importantly, NextGenTV introduced [[Digital rights management]] and encryption to freely available television airwaves.

The authority for encryption in ATSC 3.0 is called A3SA.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Paving the Way for Enhanced Security |url=https://a3sa.com/ |url-status=live |access-date=28 Mar 2025 |website=A3SA}}</ref> According to a article on Techhive,<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Newman |first=Jared |date=28 Jul 2023 |title=NextGen TV’s DRM puts future of the over-the-air DVR in doubt |url=https://www.techhive.com/article/2009693/nextgen-tv-drm-puts-future-of-the-over-the-air-dvr-in-doubt.html |url-status=live |access-date=28 Mar 2025 |website=TechHive}}</ref> restrictions that could be imposed by A3SA's DRM might include:

*Blocking or setting expiry dates on recordings
*Blocking the remote access of tuners
*Always-on internet is required for viewing/streaming/playback.
*Pairing recordings to the tuner from which it was recorded
*"Blessing" devices that pass the A3SA's DRM certification and licensing program
The Techhive article also describes that implementing DRM could increase the cost of tuners due to the required licensing and certification programs for vendors.

Lon Seidman also discovered that tuner decryption certificates can expire after 10 to 30 years on certified devices.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Seidman |first=Lon |date=30 Jan 2024 |title=ATSC 3 TV Tuners Have an Expiration Date, Slow Progress on Gateway Devices and More.. |url=https://blog.lon.tv/2024/01/30/atsc-3-tv-tuners-have-an-expiration-date-slow-progress-on-gateway-devices-and-more/ |url-status=live |access-date=28 Mar 2025 |website=Lon.tv}}</ref>

==Incidents==
Many major US ATSC 3.0 pilot stations started encrypting their broadcasts in 2023,<ref name=":0" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Seidman |first=Lon |date=15 May 2023 |title=Broadcasters Roll Out Restrictive DRM Encryption on ATSC 3.0 Broadcasts |url=https://blog.lon.tv/2023/05/15/broadcasters-roll-out-restrictive-drm-encryption-on-atsc-3-0-broadcasts/ |url-status=live |access-date=28 Mar 2025 |website=Lon.tv}}</ref> locking out users of all pre-certification ATSC 3.0 tuners without decryption support. This has led to some resource websites like [https://www.rabbitears.info/ rabbitears.info] to become concerned about their future providing information on channels due to encryption becoming more widespread. They warn that the site may be unable to operate as the tools for analysis of channels become inoperable on encrypted channels.<ref>{{Cite web |title=ATSC 3.0 Encryption |url=https://www.rabbitears.info/static.php?name=atsc3_encryption |url-status=live |access-date=28 Mar 2025 |website=RabbitEars}}</ref>

In cases where encrypted channels could be decrypted using certified tuners, it has been reported that an active internet connection is required to tune or switch between encrypted channels.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Seidman |first=Lon |date=3 Sep 2023 |title=The ADTH Nextgen TV Box Shows Us Just How Bad ATSC 3.0 Encryption Will Be.. |url=https://blog.lon.tv/2023/09/03/the-adth-nextgen-tv-box-shows-us-just-how-bad-atsc-3-0-encrpytion-will-be/ |url-status=live |access-date=28 Mar 2025 |website=Lon.tv}}</ref>

LG has also encountered patent issues trying to incorporate tuners into its TVs, which resulted in a dispute with Constellation Design Inc. that ended ATSC 3.0 tuner support in new LG televisions as of September 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Seidman |first=Lon |date=26 Sep 2023 |title=New LG Televisions Will Not Have ATSC 3 Tuners Due to Patent Dispute |url=https://blog.lon.tv/2023/09/26/new-lg-televisions-will-not-have-atsc-3-tuners-due-to-patent-dispute/ |url-status=live |access-date=28 Mar 2025 |website=Lon.tv}}</ref>

SiliconDust of HDHomeRun has engaged in official correspondence with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in response to Pearl TV (ATSC 3.0) with regards to "Authorizing the Permissive Use of the “Next Generation” Broadcast Television Standard (GN Docket No. 16-142)"<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |date=2025-07-18 |title=Pearl Ex Parte Letter re HD HomeRun (7-18-25) |url=https://www.fcc.gov/ecfs/document/107180407509394/1 |url-status=live |website=FCC.gov}}</ref> pointing out Pearl TV is acting as a '''gatekeeper''' by deciding which tuners to allow and not allow even after being "certified" for NextGenTV ATSC 3.0 as well as making mention that strict '''exclusive use of (google) widevine''' prevents popular devices such as Roku, Xbox, Apple TV, iPhone, iPad, Windows, or Mac from ever accessing the encrypted channels.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-07-22 |title=Silicondust Response to Pearl Ex Parte Letter (7-22-25) |url=https://www.fcc.gov/ecfs/document/10722712322683/1 |url-status=live |website=FCC.gov}}</ref> The two responded back and forth, and Pearl TV attempted to claim that SiliconDust was using a black-listed chip. Pearl also claimed that SiliconDust must have a Widevine CDM license.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-07-25 |title=Pearl Ex Parte Letter re HD HomeRun (Reply 7-25-25) |url=https://www.fcc.gov/ecfs/document/1072583827524/1 |url-status=live |website=FCC.gov}}</ref> SiliconDust responded by claiming Pearl continues to push false narratives. They point out they are "not required or expected to have the Level 1 CDM license described by Pearl," as well as stating that the "SoC part used in a video gateway device [the blacklisted chip], is not relevant in any way to viewers accessing ATSC 3.0 content."<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-07-29 |title=SiliconDust Reply to 2nd Pearl |url=https://www.fcc.gov/ecfs/document/107301849911610/1 |url-status=live |website=FCC.gov}}</ref> In follow-up to this incident, Nicholas J Kelsey – President of Silicondust met with the FCC where he goes over in detail how the broadcast industry is attempting to use ATSC 3.0 DRM to limit access to public airwaves illegally, "The TV receiver market is being regulated by the private broadcast industry (a different industry)" by acting as gatekeeper, Stifling innovation, having "secret A3SA rules" as well as many other key points in relation to these issues.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2025-08-01 |title=SiliconDust Ex Parte Letter re FCC meeting (7-31-25) |url=https://www.fcc.gov/ecfs/document/1080140138248/1 |url-status=live |website=FCC.gov}}</ref> ''(*'''It should be noted that discussions regarding the A3SA specifications and rules are forbidden from being referenced in filings due to NDAs'''.)''

Pearl TV accuses SiliconDust HDHomeRun devices of using a chip manufactured by Chinese HiSilicon, which is black-listed by the US government. It uses their reasoning to not approve SiliconDust HDHomeRun for DRM certification. This suggests that any component from a black-listed company violates the industry’s secret, non-disclosable rules concerning decryption<ref name=":1" />. However, the SiliconDust devices have FCC certification & approval for sale in the USA, indicating broadcast networks are trying to regulate tuner devices despite private industry having no authority. It is also worth noting that A3SA & Pearl's use of "Selectively enforcing this rule" is based on the fact that their own DRM-certified device (Converter X1 by GTMedia (''A Chinese company'')) contains a similar chip that the US government also blacklists. Moreover, GTMedia devices ran an outdated Android OS with known security vulnerabilities. They required side-loading of all apps due to the absence of the Google Play Store, further compromising user safety.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Seidman |first=Lon |date=2025-07-22 |title=Did TV Broadcasters Just Admit to Selectively Enforcing Their Own Encryption Rules? |url=https://blog.lon.tv/2025/07/22/did-tv-broadcasters-just-admit-to-selectively-enforcing-their-own-encryption-rules/ |url-status=live |website=Lon.TV Blog}}</ref>

==See also==

*[https://www.rabbitears.info/market.php?request=atsc3 rabbitears.info page on ATSC 3.0, listing encrypted channels.]
*[https://blog.lon.tv/2023/07/10/the-fcc-responds-to-my-atsc-3-encryption-complaint-they-want-to-hear-from-you/ Lon Seidman Blogpost on the FCC response to ATSC DRM]

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:{{PAGENAME}}]]
[[Category:Articles in need of additional work]]

Digital Millennium Copyright Act

2025-09-01T17:28:25Z

ClippyFellow47: Minor grammar edits.

{{StubNotice}}

The '''[[wikipedia:Digital_Millennium_Copyright_Act|Digital Millenium Copyright Act]]''' (DMCA) is a copyright law passed in 1998 to amend Title 17 of the United States Code.<ref>[https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/PLAW-105publ304/pdf/PLAW-105publ304.pdf Digital Millennium Copyright Act]. [https://www.govinfo.gov/ ''GovInfo'']. Retrieved 12 Aug, 2025</ref><ref name=":0">[https://www.congress.gov/bill/105th-congress/house-bill/2281 Summary for the Digital Millennium Copyright Act]. [https://www.congress.gov/ ''Congress.gov'']. Retrieved 12 Aug, 2025</ref> Among its provisions are criminalizing the production and dissemination of information intended to circumvent copy protections that protect intellectual property, such as those considered digital rights management. It was later amended in 1998 to shield from liability ISPs that consumers may use to gain access to such information.

The law also provides that the Library of Congress issue exemptions from the prohibition when it is shown that access-control technology has had a substantial adverse effect on the ability of people to make non-infringing uses of copyrighted works. These exemptions are not granted in perpetuity. They are revised every 3 years, and existing exemptions must be resubmitted for the next rulemaking cycle alongside any new ones.

This law is one of the earliest to address the digital multimedia era, where previous law was deemed insufficient with the technology of the time period (even though its effect covers all digital information). Although the law is meant to supplement intellectual property rights, there are concerns that it conflicts with consumers' interests. This is due to the specific text of the law, as well as its interpretation being used to attack activity by consumers that would otherwise be permitted. Concerns over Right to Repair, Fair Use, and an overall lack of valid paths to refute or redress accusations of violating the law remain.

==Section 1201==

===Anti-Circumvention rule===
The DMCA prohibits breaking any digital lock that "effectively controls access" to a copyrighted material.<ref name=":0" /> Initially created under the premise of preventing internet piracy, critics have been apt to point out the ways that corporations have abused this legal restriction. Cory Doctorow argues that the rule prevents competition and "the creation of legitimate, otherwise legal technologies."<ref>{{Cite web |last=Doctorow |first=Cory |date=2015-12-01 |title=I Can’t Let You Do That, Dave |url=https://cacm.acm.org/opinion/i-cant-let-you-do-that-dave/ |url-status=live |website=Communications of the ACM}}</ref>

==References==
<references />
[[Category:Common terms]]
[[Category:Legislation]]
[[Category:US legislation]]