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Polish Watchdog Charges Netflix Over Unauthorized Price Hikes

By  |  August 25, 2025

Poland’s consumer protection authority has launched proceedings against Netflix over allegations that the streaming giant raised subscription fees without securing customer approval, according to Reuters.

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    The Office of Competition and Consumer Protection (UOKiK) said on Monday that Netflix had unilaterally increased monthly charges for some Polish users by as much as 7 zlotys ($1.92) in August 2024. Regulators argued that under national law, companies cannot alter key elements of a contract, including prices, without first obtaining explicit and informed consent from subscribers.

    Per Reuters, UOKiK accused the company of relying on consumer silence as a sign of agreement with the new fees, a practice the watchdog says falls short of legal standards. The regulator emphasized that simply informing customers of higher costs and continuing the service does not amount to valid consent. “The price of the service, like any provision, should not be changed unilaterally, without the explicit and informed consent of the user,” UOKiK President Tomasz Chrostny said in a statement.

    Read more: Turkey Probes Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Over Anti-Competitive Practices

    Netflix, in response, said it is committed to transparency and legal compliance. “Comfort and transparent communication with consumers are crucial for us, and acting in accordance with all applicable laws is our top priority,” the company’s press office said. It added that Netflix intends to cooperate with UOKiK “to clarify this matter, ensuring the most favourable solution for Netflix viewers in Poland.”

    According to Reuters, the watchdog has opened administrative proceedings, which could result in significant penalties. If the charges are upheld, Netflix could face fines of up to 10% of its turnover for each unlawful contract clause and may also be required to reimburse affected customers.

    This is not the first time UOKiK has acted against global streaming platforms. Earlier in 2024, the authority intervened in a similar case involving Amazon, leading the company to amend its terms for Amazon Prime and Amazon Prime Video.

    Source: Reuters