PDFe.com – Misleading Trial, Hidden Charges

I used PDFe to upload and edit a PDF, for which the fee was R13.11. The website did mention a 7‑day trial period, but trial periods are generally understood to mean free access to test a service. Instead, I was charged during the trial, which led me to believe I was purchasing a once‑off service — because honestly, who pays to use a trial period?

At no stage — from the main page, to uploading, to paying, and downloading — was it clearly disclosed that I would be placed on a monthly subscription plan. After the 7‑day trial ended, PDFe deducted R1000 from my account without my informed consent.

This lack of transparency is misleading and dishonest. Automatically enrolling users into costly subscriptions without clear disclosure is exploitative. I have since canceled my account, but I will be warning others about this experience. PDFe’s operations are deceptive, and I strongly advise potential users to be extremely cautious before providing any payment details.