I bought a digital download that doesn't work. What remedies do I have?

What the Law Says

The Consumer Rights Act 2015 gives you clear rights when digital content — such as music, films, e-books, software, or games — is supplied and turns out to be faulty, not as described, or not fit for purpose.

Digital content is treated separately from goods and services under the Act, but with strong protections. If it doesn’t meet the legal standards (satisfactory quality, fit for purpose, as described), you’re entitled to remedies.

Section 34 specifically sets out your rights for digital content that doesn’t conform to the contract. Unlike physical goods, there’s no automatic right to reject and get a full refund within 30 days — but you *do* have a short-term right to a repair or replacement first, and if those aren’t possible or timely, you can claim a price reduction or full refund.

The law also says that if the trader fails to provide a remedy within a reasonable time and without significant inconvenience, you may be entitled to a price reduction or to keep the content and claim a partial or full refund.

Statutory Text

If digital content does not conform to the contract, the consumer has the rights set out in this Chapter.

— Consumer Rights Act 2015, s. 34 — Digital content not conforming to the contract

What to Do

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