FTC sues Uber over deceptive Uber One subscription tactics

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) filed a lawsuit against Uber, alleging that the company enrolled customers into its Uber One subscription service without their consent, misrepresented potential savings, and made it unreasonably difficult to cancel memberships despite a 'cancel anytime' promise. The FTC claims Uber falsely advertised $25 per month in savings without clearly disclosing the $9.99 monthly subscription fee, often burying key details in hard-to-read text. Customers reported being charged before free trials ended and encountering cancellation processes that could require navigating up to 32 steps. The agency argues these practices violate consumer protection laws, which require clear disclosure and easy cancellation for recurring services. Uber has denied the allegations, asserting its sign-up and cancellation processes are lawful and straightforward, and said it is confident it will prevail in court. The FTC is seeking a permanent injunction to prevent Uber from continuing these alleged practices and monetary relief for affected consumers.