SiriusXM made it too hard for NYers to cancel subscriptions, ordered to change practice: judge

Core Viewpoint - A New York state judge ruled that SiriusXM Holdings made it excessively difficult for customers to cancel their subscriptions, violating the federal Restore Online Shoppers' Confidence Act [1][2]. Group 1: Legal Findings - The judge, Justice Lyle Frank, found that SiriusXM's cancellation process was not as easy as signing up, requiring customers to engage with live agents and listen to multiple offers before cancellation [2]. - SiriusXM is mandated to change its cancellation practices to comply with legal standards and is liable for unspecified damages [2]. Group 2: Customer Experience - Subscribers reportedly spent an average of 11.5 minutes to cancel by phone and 30 minutes to cancel online, indicating a cumbersome process [4][5]. - The New York Attorney General, Letitia James, emphasized that the cancellation process should be simplified to protect consumers [6]. Group 3: Company Response - SiriusXM announced plans to appeal the decision made on November 21 and stated its commitment to adhere to a Federal Trade Commission rule that mandates an easy cancellation process [3]. - The "click-to-cancel" rule will take effect on January 14, 2025, further emphasizing the need for companies to streamline cancellation procedures [4].