Amazon is trying to crush class action suits before they get started
Amazon updated its terms to require arbitration and a class-action waiver, blocking most lawsuits.Summary
On Friday, Amazon emailed customers about an update to its terms and conditions that mandates arbitration for all disputes and includes a class-action waiver. The company describes the change as a fast and efficient way to resolve issues, though it prevents most customers from pursuing lawsuits before a judge or jury. Customers may still use small claims court in limited cases, but payouts are usually capped at a few thousand dollars. Amazon had previously removed similar language in 2021 amid legal challenges over Alexa privacy and other issues, but now it is reinstating the waiver to steer larger disputes toward mass arbitration rather than individual hearings. Legal experts note that the agreement could still be challenged in court, where a judge might decide whether to allow class actions to proceed.
(Source：The Verge)