The Consumer Rights Act 2015 has been around for a while but enforcement is sharpening. The Competition and Markets Authority has made clear it will pursue any terms that leave consumers at a disadvantage. That means hidden fees, automatic renewal clauses buried in small print and terms that let businesses change prices or services unilaterally.
The shift is practical. If you pay for a subscription or service and the terms change after you signed up, you may have a right to cancel without penalty. The key test is whether the term is transparent and prominent. If it is not, the CMA considers it unfair and unenforceable. That applies to digital services, gym memberships and broadband contracts equally.
One area getting attention is pre-ticked boxes and default opt-ins. The law requires explicit consent. Silence or inaction does not mean agreement. If a company added a paid add-on without you ticking a box, it is likely an unfair practice under the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008.
The short version: read the renewal clauses. Challenge any fee for leaving early if the terms changed after you joined. And know that the regulator is actually acting on complaints now. The law is on your side but only if you push back.
Paul