Cloud storage: consumer law compliance review
Download the full outcome
Detail of outcome
Our review found that people find cloud storage services really valuable. The majority of consumers are generally satisfied with their services.
However, some cloud storage providers are using contract terms and practices that the CMA is concerned could breach consumer protection law. This includes terms giving businesses the ability to:
- change the service or terms of the contract at any time, for any reason and without notice
- suspend or terminate the contract without notice for any reason
- automatically renew a contract at the end of a fixed term without giving notice or withdrawal rights
The report sets out the CMA’s views about what it considers businesses should do to address its concerns and help ensure that their terms and practices are fair.
Alongside the report, the CMA has also published an open letter to businesses and guidance for consumers.
Original consultation
Consultation description
Cloud storage services allow consumers to store, manage, organise and retrieve their digital content on their devices using the internet.
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has looked at some of the business practices and terms and conditions used in the cloud storage sector. We have identified some potential consumer protection issues that we would like to assess further.
We’ve launched a review to find out how widespread the issues we have identified are, whether they breach consumer protection law and how they are affecting consumers.
We’re seeking views from:
- consumers who use or have used cloud storage services for personal use (not for business or job-related reasons)
- providers of cloud storage services
- others who have carried out research in this area or have views on the sector
Documents
Last updated 27 May 2016 + show all updates
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Findings report published.
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First published.