Question:

How can TeamViewer legally charge customers for “future services” after they cancel their subscription?

The question is based on a Facebook post that claims TeamViewer sent a collection agency to demand payment for a renewal term that the customer did not agree to. The post also warns other users of TeamViewer’s hidden auto-renewal and cancellation policy. The post includes a link to the letter from the collection agency, a screenshot of the original post, and a link to the post itself.

Answer:

TeamViewer is a popular software that allows users to remotely access and control other devices. However, some customers have recently complained that TeamViewer has charged them for “future services” after they canceled their subscription. A Facebook post shared a letter from a collection agency that demanded payment for a renewal term that the customer did not agree to. The post also warned other users of TeamViewer’s hidden auto-renewal and cancellation policy. How can TeamViewer do this, and what can customers do to avoid it?

According to TeamViewer’s End User License Agreement (EULA), the contract has an initial term of 12 months and shall be renewed automatically for additional periods of 12 months, unless either party notifies the other party no less than 28 days prior to the end of the initial or renewal term. This means that customers who want to cancel their subscription must submit a written request to TeamViewer at least 28 days before the end of their current term, otherwise they will be charged for the next term. TeamViewer claims that this policy is clearly stated on their website, in their order confirmation emails, and in their activation emails.

However, some customers have argued that TeamViewer has not notified them of the price changes, the contract changes, or the auto-renewal policy. They have also reported difficulties in contacting TeamViewer’s customer support or submitting a ticket to cancel their subscription. Some customers have even resorted to blocking their credit cards or disputing the charges with their banks. These actions, however, may result in TeamViewer referring the outstanding invoices to a collection agency, as shown in the Facebook post.

So, what can customers do to protect themselves from TeamViewer’s practices? Here are some possible tips:

• Read the EULA carefully before signing up for a subscription. Make sure you understand the terms and conditions, especially the auto-renewal and cancellation policy.
• Keep track of your subscription term and renewal date. Set a reminder to cancel your subscription at least 28 days before the end of your current term, if you do not wish to continue using TeamViewer.
• Submit a written request to cancel your subscription via the ticket portal. Keep a record of your request and the confirmation from TeamViewer. If you have not activated your license on your TeamViewer account, you will need to contact TeamViewer by email or phone.
• If you have been charged for “future services” after canceling your subscription, contact TeamViewer’s customer support and request a refund. Explain your situation and provide evidence of your cancellation request. If TeamViewer refuses to refund you, you may consider taking legal action or filing a complaint with the consumer protection agency in your jurisdiction.
• If you have received a letter from a collection agency, do not ignore it. Respond to the letter and dispute the debt. Provide proof of your cancellation request and the communication with TeamViewer. Request the collection agency to stop contacting you until they verify the debt. You may also consult a lawyer or a debt counselor for further assistance.

TeamViewer’s

auto-renewal and cancellation policy has caused frustration and anger among many customers. While TeamViewer may have the legal right to charge customers for “future services” after they cancel their subscription, it may not be the ethical or customer-friendly way to do business. Customers should be aware of their rights and responsibilities when signing up for a subscription, and take action to prevent or resolve any disputes with TeamViewer.