The Italian antitrust opens an investigation against the companies Microsoft Ireland Operations Ltd e Microsoft Srl for unfair commercial practice relating to information on theincrease in the price of subscription to the “Microsoft 365” serviceThe group – explains a note from the Authority – did not adequately highlight that the subscription service was integrated with artificial intelligence services "Copilot" and "Designer." Furthermore, consumers would have been forced to choose a new subscription plan with a higher price, as a default option and subject to the right of withdrawal.
Microsoft investigates price increase for "365" subscription
According to the Competition and Market Authority, the conduct would be “contrary to consumerist discipline” because Microsoft "would not have provided users with sufficient information to appreciate the changes made to the service offered and, consequently, make informed and conscious choices on whether or not to proceed with the contractual renewal". According to theAgcm, the same communication method "would also constitute an aggressive practice because it would have unduly restricted the contractual autonomy of consumers".
Microsoft, consumers ready to ask for refunds
The news is welcomed by consumer associations. An initiative – explains the Codacons – which “demonstrates once again, if there was any need, the excessive power of big tech, which continue to implement unfair behavior in terms of competition and consumer rights in order to increase their profits". The association emphasizes how "the lack of transparency towards consumers and the vague information on the services provided and their costs produce significant economic damage, preventing users from making informed choices and diverting millions and millions of euros every year". Codacons says it expects "a huge fine if the irregularities are discovered" and says it is ready to take action "to ensure that all interested parties obtain the reimbursement of the largest sums paid due to unfair practices”.
