When a new application or Software as a Service (SaaS) offering makes its debut in the market, it is quite common for the organization behind it to present a “lifetime plan” to those who adopt it early. These plans are generally set at a premium cost—often equivalent to multiple years of subscription fees—and are promoted as a one-time payment for perpetual access.

However, it is crucial to recognize that “lifetime” in this instance denotes the duration of the company or service, not the customer’s lifespan. If the business ceases operations, the agreement essentially concludes. Nonetheless, many users perceive lifetime plans as a wise investment—if the service flourishes, they can enjoy continuous access without recurring payments, while others incur monthly or annual charges.

But what occurs when a business doesn’t close down but instead undergoes a change in ownership—and the new proprietors assert they were unaware of the lifetime offers?

This is the predicament confronting patrons of VPNSecure, a virtual private network (VPN) provider.

VPNSecure Ends Lifetime Accounts

As initially reported by Ars Technica, VPNSecure unexpectedly terminated all lifetime accounts on April 28, without any prior notice. Customers received an email on the same day notifying them that their lifetime access had been rescinded.

The new proprietors of VPNSecure claim they acquired the business in May 2023, but were not informed that the former owners had sold thousands of lifetime subscriptions, many through platforms such as StackSocial.

“Regrettably, the previous owner did not reveal that thousands of Lifetime Deals (LTDs) had been sold via platforms like StackSocial,” VPNSecure stated in its communication to affected customers. “We only became aware of this months later—when a significant portion of our resources were strained by these LTD accounts and the high support volume from users, who, according to part of the database, provided no sustainable income to assist us in enhancing and maintaining the service.”

The new ownership claims they only acquired the technology, brand, and infrastructure—not the business itself or any of its contractual commitments, inclusive of those associated with lifetime deals.

StackSocial, a well-known online marketplace for discounted software, had promoted VPNSecure’s lifetime plan as recently as 2022, with customers paying approximately $30 for unrestricted access.

Ownership Issues Add to the Confusion

Compounding the controversy is the unclear ownership framework of VPNSecure. While the organization’s website currently lists InfiniteQuant Ltd as its parent company, the Bahamas-based firm refutes any connection. At various points, VPNSecure’s terms of service have identified Dubai-based HOLDXB Trading FZCO and Australia-based Boost Network Pty Ltd as affiliated entities, but neither seems to have a publicly available contact.

In light of the backlash, VPNSecure has proposed former lifetime customers a discounted subscription rate to maintain access to the service. However, the harm may already be irreparable. The organization has been inundated with unfavorable reviews on Reddit and platforms such as Trustpilot, with many users articulating frustration and discontent over the abrupt cancellation of their plans.

For now, VPNSecure’s approach to the situation acts as a cautionary tale for both businesses offering lifetime deals and the customers who purchase them. While the allure of lifetime access can be tempting, it is only as dependable as the company behind it—and the clarity of any future ownership.