Hopper App Pays $35 Million to Settle FTC 'Hidden Fees' Allegations
The popular travel booking app agreed to a substantial payment to settle allegations from the U.S. consumer protection agency, accusing it of using deceptive design tactics to collect hidden service fees.
Hopper, the popular flight and accommodation booking application, has agreed to pay $35 million USD to settle allegations from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The FTC, a U.S. government consumer protection agency, stated that Hopper used “dark patterns” (deceptive design tactics) to intentionally confuse users and lead them to pay more unknowingly. The allegations claim the app subtly hid various fees and provided misleading information to users regarding true costs and the benefits of optional services offered, which constitutes unfair and deceptive consumer practices. This payment is part of a settlement agreement, meaning Hopper agreed to pay to close the case without officially admitting or denying the allegations.
This news serves as an important case study for users of international applications in Thailand, highlighting the need to be cautious of hidden fees and always thoroughly check the final price before payment.