The OFT has today issued a set of principles for businesses using continuous payment authorities (CPAs) amid concerns that customers are not always being made aware of what they are signing up to and may be misled about their rights to cancel. Once agreed by a customer, a CPA allows a business to take a series of payments using a customer's debit card or credit card without having to seek express authorisation for every payment. CPAs are often used to collect renewal payments for things like vehicle breakdown services, insurance policies, gym memberships, online dating, mobile and broadband services or magazine subscriptions. CPAs can provide an efficient and convenient payment method for customers. It is important, however, that where they are used customers are fully aware of the commitment they are entering into and can cancel them without difficulty should they choose. The principles make clear to all businesses what they need to do to ensure that they fully meet their legal responsibilities when using CPAs, including that they:.....Read more here: OFT issues principles to traders using Continuous Payment Authorities - The Office of Fair Trading