DAZN under pressure: class action lawsuit over price increase

Dissatisfaction with the sports streaming service DAZN has recently worsened dramatically. In 2023, the consumer advice centers and the Federal Association of Consumer Organizations (vzbv) registered around 500 complaints about DAZN - almost seven times as many as in the previous year. Many of these complaints revolved around the sudden and steep price increases that DAZN introduced in August 2022. At that time, the monthly costs for existing customers jumped from 14.99 to 29.99 euros and the annual fee from 149.99 to 274.99 euros. The vzbv has therefore now filed a representative action against DAZN.

Consumer criticism of DAZN

The main criticism from consumers was the unilateral contract changes and the associated price increases, which were carried out without the customers' prior consent. Many customers not only felt poorly informed about the changes, but also complained about the sudden strain on their finances without warning. The anger is growing mainly because DAZN's methods of customer loyalty - such as the more difficult cancellation conditions - are perceived as particularly customer-unfriendly.

Procedure and legal basis

The aim of the representative action filed is to have the price increases made by DAZN declared inadmissible and to enable the affected consumers to receive repayment. The representatives of the vzbv argue that the price increase clauses used are non-transparent and unreasonably disadvantageous and should therefore not be permitted under German consumer protection law.

Questions and answers:

Question 1: What does the class action lawsuit mean for affected DAZN customers?
Answer 1: Affected customers can join the lawsuit and, if successful, expect a refund of the overpaid fees.

Question 2: How can consumers join the lawsuit?
Answer 2: Interested parties should register for the news alert at http://sammel Klagen.de to be informed about the opening of the lawsuit register and further steps.

Question 3: What does DAZN say about the allegations?
Answer 3: The company has not yet publicly commented on the specific allegations.

Question 4: What are the chances of success of the lawsuit?
Answer 4: The chances of success depend on many factors, including the court's assessment of the causes of action and the evidence presented.

Question 5: What can consumers do if they have similar problems with other providers?
Answer 5: You should report your complaints to the relevant consumer advice center and seek legal advice.

Conclusion

The class action lawsuit against DAZN marks a milestone for consumer protection in the digital age. It shows that consumer rights can also be enforced in fast-moving markets such as streaming. The case highlights the need for transparent business practices and fair contractual conditions. Consumers are well advised to actively exercise their rights and, if necessary, defend themselves.

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Source: Federal Association of Consumer Organizations

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