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A concerning trend has emerged in the UK involving the Claude AI chatbot, where unsuspecting users are discovering unexpected charges on their credit card statements. One family, after subscribing to the chatbot for $20 a month (approximately £15), found two mysterious payments of $200 each for gift cards linked to the service.
David Duggan, the user in question, initially praised Claude for its capabilities in managing medical inquiries and family organisation. However, the sudden appearance of these large charges raised alarms, prompting further investigation into the subscription's terms and conditions.
This incident highlights a growing issue with AI services, where users may inadvertently sign up for additional costs or be targeted by scams that exploit their trust in technology. As AI tools become more integrated into daily life, consumers are urged to remain vigilant about their financial transactions and scrutinise subscription services closely.
Experts recommend that users regularly monitor their bank statements and report any suspicious activity immediately. Additionally, they advise reading the fine print of subscription agreements to understand potential hidden fees.
As the popularity of AI chatbots continues to rise, so too does the risk of fraud. Consumers are encouraged to exercise caution and seek assistance if they encounter unexpected charges related to such services.
Source: www.theguardian.com – https://www.theguardian.com/money/2026/may/03/ai-claude-chatbot-gift-card-subcription-scam-mystery-payments