Deceptive Patterns
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United States of America v. MyLife.com, Inc., and Jeffrey Tinsley

Jurisdiction
USA
Authority
United States District Court Central District of California, Western Division
Date
15 Dec 2021
Case number
2:20-cv-06692-JFW-PD
Outcome
$21 million in fines

Case summary

MyLife.com was held liable for luring consumers in hard-to-cancel subscription programs and deceptive billing practices.

Our analysis

Outcome

In the settlement, Tinsley and MyLife have agreed to separate judgments totaling $33.9 million, with Tinsley responsible for paying $5 million and MyLife paying a partially suspended judgment of $16 million due to financial constraints. These funds will be allocated for consumer refunds. MyLife will be obligated to pay the full remaining amount of the judgment if its financial misrepresentation is confirmed. Additionally, Tinsley and MyLife are permanently prohibited from offering products with negative option features and engaging in deceptive practices as outlined in the complaint, which includes misleading implications regarding individuals' criminal records in cases of traffic violations. Furthermore, MyLife is mandated to implement a monitoring program to ensure compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).

Parties

Federal Trade Commission, MyLife.com, Inc., and Jeffrey Tinsley

View the decision

Related deceptive patterns

Hidden costs ›The user is enticed with a low advertised price. After investing time and effort, they discover unexpected fees and charges when they reach the checkout.Hard to cancel ›The user finds it easy to sign up or subscribe, but when they want to cancel they find it very hard.

Related rules

Federal Trade Commission Act - Section 5(a), 15 U.S.C. § 45(a) ›Prohibits deceptive acts or practices that misrepresent or omit material facts.ROSCA - Section 4, 15 U.S.C. § 8404 ›Specifies the enforcement provisions for violations of the Act by the Federal Trade Commission, including penalties and privileges.Fair Credit Reporting Act - 15 U.S.C. §§1681-1681 ›Mandates consumer reporting agencies to implement fair and accurate procedures for handling consumer credit information, ensuring confidentiality and relevance while upholding consumer rights.