Data from Chargebacks911 was recently cited in Internet Retailing in an article which shines a spotlight on the hidden costs retailers face when consumers forget about subscriptions or struggle with cancellations. The feature emphasizes how these friction points are translating into growing chargeback losses.
Internet Retailing is a respected UK-based publication focused on eCommerce, multichannel retail, and the technologies that drive modern retail operations. The site offers insight and analysis for retail executives, operations teams, and tech decision-makers looking to stay ahead of consumer trends and payment risks.
“When facing post-transaction issues, 50% of cardholders bypass merchants and go straight to their bank – often at a cost to the retailer,” the article cites from Chargebacks911’s research.
The article digs deeper into Chargebacks911’s 2025 Cardholder Dispute Index, which reveals that consumers spend on average $2,600 per year on subscriptions. And, nearly half admit they pay for services they’ve forgotten about or no longer use. It also highlights alarming consumer behavior: 85% of cardholders say they would prefer their bank to cancel unwanted subscriptions on their behalf.
Against this backdrop, the piece underscores the regulatory pressure building in the UK via the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024, which introduces obligations around renewal reminders, clearer terms, and cooling-off periods.
“As subscription services proliferate, merchants must put clarity and control front and center,” said Ben Bridwell, President at Chargebacks911. “When cancellation is simple and transparent, customers are less likely to skip ahead to a dispute and more inclined to engage on retention or feedback.”
