British Columbia Bans Predatory Sales and Automatic Renewals

The Government of British Columbia updated the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Act on August 1, 2026, to increase transparency and curb predatory business tactics. Attorney General Niki Sharma announced that the amendments now prohibit businesses from renewing subscriptions automatically without providing advance notice and require that services be cancellable without penalty.

The new regulations specifically target high-pressure door-to-door sales of expensive household items, such as furnaces and air conditioners. To further protect vulnerable residents, the province has banned businesses from offering or arranging credit as part of these direct sales. Consumer Protection BC and the Better Business Bureau praised the measures, noting that predatory tactics have historically targeted seniors and newcomers.

Additional protections against identity fraud are being phased in through amendments to Bill 28. As of August 2026, residents can access their credit reports and scores once per month for free and establish credit freezes at no cost. Further requirements for lenders and credit reporting agencies are scheduled to take effect in August 2027 to strengthen the province's defense against financial fraud.