Italy launches probe into Microsoft 365 subscription price hike

Italy's Competition Authority launched an investigation into whether consumers were adequately informed about the price increase in Microsoft 365 subscriptions. The consumer association demanded that if a violation is found, the company be fined and users receive refunds.

Scraper SystemJune 26, 2026, 07:26 PM

Italy launches probe into Microsoft 365 subscription price hike

Italy's Competition Authority launched an investigation into Microsoft Ireland Operations Ltd. and Microsoft S.R.L. on suspicion of unfair commercial practices in the process of informing consumers about the price increase in Microsoft 365 subscription fees.

According to a statement from the authority, the information regarding the price increase was conveyed to users in a fragmented and insufficiently clear manner. Additionally, consumers were not properly informed about the integration of artificial intelligence-based Copilot and Designer features into the Microsoft 365 service.

One of the issues to be examined as part of the investigation is whether subscribers who did not cancel their contracts were automatically moved to a more expensive new plan. The Competition Authority considers that this practice may violate legislation protecting consumer rights.

The Italian Consumer Rights Association Codacons argued that the investigation once again highlights the unfair practices of big tech companies in the areas of competition and consumer rights. The organization stated that it expects a heavy administrative fine to be imposed on Microsoft if a violation is found. Codacons also announced that it will resort to legal action to seek refunds for users who suffered financial losses due to the company's alleged unfair practices.