Kuku FM Accused of Misleading Subscriptions Amid Record Growth
Consumer complaints and industry critics raise alarm as Kuku FM grabs attention over auto-renewals, hidden charges—despite closing a $25 million funding round 19 June 2025, New Delhi Kuku FM, one...
Consumer complaints and industry critics raise alarm as Kuku FM grabs attention over auto-renewals, hidden charges—despite closing a $25 million funding round
19 June 2025, New Delhi
Kuku FM, one of India’s leading regional language audio platforms, is facing increasing scrutiny after multiple users accused the company of unethical billing practices. Allegations of unauthorized deductions, auto-renewal confusion, and poor customer service have triggered widespread backlash, even as the company reportedly prepares to close a fresh round of funding.
The controversy erupted on social media, where users claimed the app charged them ₹399 or ₹699 without clear consent, especially after promotional trials priced as low as ₹2. Several subscribers reported challenges in cancelling subscriptions and long delays in refund processing. Some users also alleged that the platform’s customer support was unresponsive, prompting the hashtag #DontTrustKukuFM to trend across X (formerly Twitter).
Kuku FM, widely recognized for its regional audiobooks and self-help content, has witnessed impressive growth in recent years, particularly among audiences in India’s tier-2 and tier-3 cities. In the financial year 2024, the platform reported a revenue of ₹88 crore, marking a 114% surge from the previous year. The company also claims a robust user base, with over 2.5 million paid subscribers. In 2023, it secured $25 million in a Series C funding round led by Nandan Nilekani’s Fundamentum Partnership and the International Finance Corporation (IFC). Industry insiders now indicate that Kuku FM is in advanced talks to close another round of investment.
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However, digital rights advocates argue that such financial milestones should not come at the expense of consumer trust. Experts have flagged Kuku FM’s alleged use of “dark patterns” — deceptive design techniques that subtly mislead users or complicate cancellation — a practice increasingly seen in India’s subscription-based app ecosystem.
Consumer rights groups have strongly criticized these practices, warning that they not only breach ethical standards but may also violate India’s consumer protection and digital commerce regulations. They stress that companies must adopt transparent communication and prioritize user consent over aggressive monetization strategies.
Despite mounting pressure, Kuku FM has yet to issue an official statement addressing the allegations. The controversy has reignited a broader debate around ethical conduct in the Indian tech sector, with many calling for stricter regulation and greater investor accountability. As subscription-based services continue to dominate digital engagement, industry leaders are being urged to uphold responsible business practices rooted in transparency and trust.
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