Ubisoft Criticized for Threatening to Close "Inactive" User Accounts, Possibly Contravening Consumer Protection Laws

Ubisoft is facing backlash from the public and media over its decision to close "inactive" Ubisoft Connect accounts, effectively blocking users from accessing their previously purchased games. The controversy was sparked by a notification sent by the company to one of its users.

The notification from Ubisoft states that accounts which remain inactive for a certain period will become permanently inaccessible, along with any games purchased on them, unless users follow a link to cancel the account suspension.

Responding to criticism, Ubisoft's support service explained that players who receive such a notification should log into their account and click on the "Cancel Account Closure" button within 30 days to prevent the account closure.

Ubisoft attributes this action to the need to comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), as the company claims it is obligated to close inactive accounts to comply with local personal data protection laws.

However, many players and media outlets point out that such actions may contravene consumer protection laws, particularly in France, where digital purchases are considered inalienable, just like physical goods. In light of this conflict of interests, a Twitter user has even filed a complaint about Ubisoft's actions with the French consumer rights association UFC-Que Choisir.