The Polish competition authority, UOKiK, has taken a firm stance against Netflix for increasing subscription fees without obtaining explicit consent from its users. Many subscribers have reported being charged higher fees despite not changing their service plans or settings.

UOKiK President Tomasz Chróstny emphasized that such practices violate consumer rights, as Netflix interprets a lack of response from users as consent to the new pricing. He stated that it is unfair to assume agreement to significant contract changes without active user approval.

In August 2024, Netflix raised its subscription fees by up to 7 PLN per month without clear subscriber consent. UOKiK has challenged the terms that allowed Netflix to unilaterally alter prices and other essential contract conditions, which could harm consumer interests.

Under subscription models, any changes to pricing or contract terms must be made with the informed consent of consumers. Without this consent, contracts should not be renewed under altered conditions. UOKiK warns that companies using unfair clauses could face fines of up to 10% of their turnover for each violation and may be required to refund improperly charged fees.

This is not UOKiK's first action in this area; in 2023, the authority successfully intervened to change Amazon's practices regarding Amazon Prime and Amazon Prime Video. Currently, UOKiK is also reviewing the practices of other major companies, including Apple, Disney+, Google, HBO Max, Microsoft, Sony, and Adobe, with some already pledging to comply with Polish regulations.

Chróstny noted that while there are positive changes in the market, companies must also compensate consumers for past violations, particularly regarding unauthorized subscription fee increases.