ExpressVPN Auto-Renewal Lawsuit Raises Legal and Ethical Concerns
ExpressVPN, one of the most widely used virtual private network services globally, is now under legal scrutiny in California. A class action lawsuit has been filed by a customer who claims the provider charged him automatically for a monthly subscription without proper consent. The ExpressVPN auto-renewal lawsuit is making waves not only due to the brand’s popularity but also because it touches on a broader issue affecting many digital services: the legality and transparency of auto-renewal billing practices. Many users search for clarity on how VPN providers handle recurring payments, and this case sheds light on how even tech-savvy customers can find themselves unexpectedly billed.
Filed on June 13, 2025, by California resident Timothy Millar, the complaint alleges that ExpressVPN violated state laws regarding automatic renewals. According to the suit, Millar was billed monthly without his knowledge or clear consent. He seeks to represent a class of fellow Californians who may have experienced similar unauthorized charges. The case falls under California’s Automatic Renewal Law (ARL), which requires companies to clearly disclose auto-renewal terms, get affirmative consent before charging, and provide simple cancellation options. This is part of a growing wave of legal action targeting tech firms’ recurring billing practices.
Legal Background of the ExpressVPN Auto-Renewal Lawsuit
California’s Automatic Renewal Law (ARL) is among the most robust consumer protection statutes in the U.S. Designed to prevent deceptive subscription tactics, ARL mandates transparency in terms and conditions, along with accessible cancellation procedures. The ExpressVPN auto-renewal lawsuit alleges that the company failed to uphold these legal responsibilities. Specifically, Millar claims he wasn’t clearly informed about the recurring nature of his VPN subscription, nor did he knowingly agree to such payments. If true, this could mean that ExpressVPN violated ARL’s consent requirements, making any resulting charges “illegal” under state law.
Auto-renewals themselves aren’t unlawful, but the way they're handled matters. Businesses must obtain “clear and conspicuous” consent and ensure users can opt out easily. The lawsuit could therefore serve as a wake-up call to the tech industry, reminding service providers that compliance with consumer protection laws isn’t optional. ExpressVPN has not yet responded publicly to the allegations, but the case could set a legal precedent that affects how subscription-based tech companies operate—not just in California, but nationwide.
Wider Impact on the VPN Industry and Users
ExpressVPN isn’t the only provider facing legal heat. NordVPN, another leading VPN service, is already entangled in multiple lawsuits for similar reasons. This suggests a systemic issue across the VPN industry where automatic subscription renewals might not always be handled transparently. As digital privacy tools like VPNs grow in popularity, so does scrutiny around how these services manage user payments and consent. The expressvpn auto-renewal lawsuit could inspire more legal challenges and regulatory actions against tech providers that rely on automatic billing.
For users, the lawsuit is a reminder to read the fine print when signing up for any online service. Even reputable companies may employ tactics that toe the legal line. Always look for clear explanations about renewal policies during checkout and make sure there's a straightforward cancellation process available. This is particularly important for services that offer free trials, as they often default into paid plans once the trial ends—sometimes without proper notification. Understanding your consumer rights, especially in jurisdictions like California, empowers you to challenge unexpected charges and push for more transparent business practices.
What Users and Businesses Should Do Next
Consumers impacted by ExpressVPN’s billing practices should closely monitor the outcome of this class action. If the court rules in favor of Millar and others in the class, refunds or compensations might be possible for affected users. Even outside California, the case may motivate users to audit their digital subscriptions more thoroughly. Consider reviewing your account settings, contacting customer support for billing clarifications, and setting up calendar reminders before free trials end. If you feel you’ve been unfairly charged, filing a complaint with consumer protection agencies or joining class actions could be viable options.
For businesses, this lawsuit serves as a critical lesson. Transparent subscription models that respect user consent aren’t just good ethics—they’re good business. Companies should prioritize compliance with local laws like California’s ARL and build trust through upfront communication. This includes making cancellation links easy to find, sending timely renewal notifications, and never hiding key terms in fine print. The expressvpn auto-renewal lawsuit could be a defining moment for how tech platforms balance automation with accountability. As regulations evolve, customer experience and legal integrity will become equally important pillars of subscription-based services.
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