The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has launched a federal court case against US-based eHarmony, alleging misleading and deceptive conduct regarding its auto-renewal subscriptions and claims of free dating. Hundreds of consumers complained about unexpected charges and debt collection notices.
After hundreds of complaints, eHarmony’s auto renewal subscription case begins in Australian federal court
Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC)AustraliaOnline dating
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TL;DR: Key points with love ❤️The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has launched a federal court case against US-based eHarmony, alleging misleading and deceptive conduct regarding its auto-renewal subscriptions and claims of free dating. Hundreds of consumers complained about unexpected charges and debt collection notices.
Trending- 1 November 2019 - June 2023: eHarmony's basic user features were very limited.
- 2 2023: ACCC received hundreds of complaints about eHarmony's practices.
- 3 February 2023: One consumer's subscription was renewed for nearly $480 without their awareness.
- 4 June 2, 2025: The ACCC's case against eHarmony begins in the federal court.
- 5 June 6, 2025: The case is expected to conclude.
- eHarmony is facing a significant lawsuit in Australia.
- Consumers have faced unexpected charges and debt collection notices.
- The outcome could impact eHarmony's business practices and consumer protection laws in Australia.
What: The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is suing eHarmony for alleged misleading and deceptive conduct concerning its automatic subscription renewals and claims of providing free dating services.
When: The case began on Monday, June 2, 2025, and is expected to run until Friday. The ACCC received hundreds of complaints from consumers in 2023. The alleged misleading practices occurred between November 2019 and June 2023.
Where: The case is being heard in the Australian federal court, in Australia.
Why: Consumers reported being charged for renewals they were unaware of and being misled about the extent of 'free' services, leading to unexpected costs and debt collection. The ACCC alleges eHarmony's practices were deceptive.
How: The ACCC is presenting confidential consumer affidavits as evidence. eHarmony is arguing that renewal information is clearly stated in its terms and conditions and on its subscription pages.