McAfee, Symantec Settle Investigation into Automatic Software Renewals

McAfee, Symantec Settle Investigation into Automatic Software Renewals

The New York Attorney General's office has announced a settlement of the investigation into McAfee's and Symantec's automatic antivirus subscription renewal practices. The investigation followed complaints filed by several New Yorkers regarding automatic renewal practices used by both software companies. The complainants had purchased the software online, only to later have their subscription automatically renewed without their knowledge or consent.

As part of the settlement, the two antivirus software companies will pay the state of New York $750,000. Additionally, they have agreed to improve the visibility of their subscription terms and renewal policies so customers won't be taken by surprise when the notice recurring charges on their credit cards. This will be undertaken by notifying customers before and after the renewal of the antivirus software subscription, in addition to offering a grace period of 60 days for refunds.

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Published on Jun-12-09