The Fine Print: To Read or Not to Read

Each time you register with a new service or make a new purchase, you’ll be presented with terms and conditions which you must indicate you agree with by checking and signing a box. These often come in the form of fine print, an exhaustingly large list of terms written in small font which most people skim or immediately scroll over without reading. You may be surprised, however, how important this fine print is, as it outlines both your rights and those of the service you are using. Without looking at the fine print, you can later be hit by unexpected terms which can harm your wallet or use your data. More importantly, you may not discover terms hiding under your mortgage to do with taxes, or coverage for your insurance. Here are some specific reasons why you should always read the fine print:

1. Know What You’re Getting

Large print can be purposefully misguiding or confusing. When you sign up to a welcome offer, for instance, like an offer or promotion, the fine print will outline stipulations on the service. Online casinos, for instance, offer free spins and bonus matches for new customers; the fine print will outline the depositing and wagering requirements you must meet before the offer is valid.

2. Subscription Issues

When signing up to something like a subscription, the fine print may indicate the longevity you must commit to, including an inability to cancel before the period ends. Subscriptions are prone to hidden costs and details which you should know before you buy.

3. Protect Your Personal Data/Information

Even trivial subscriptions and services make use of your personal information. The fine print will tell you what exactly a company will do with your information. You may be surprised to learn that some services freely share your personal information with third parties, or sell your information on for a profit.

Otis Howe