What to Do Now

Actionable steps to dispute charges, request refunds, and escalate to consumer protection authorities.

1

Gather Evidence Immediately

Document everything before taking any action. This evidence will be critical for chargebacks and complaints.

  • Screenshots of your subscription dashboard (cancellation status, renewal settings)
  • Email confirmations (sign-up, cancellation attempts, billing notifications)
  • Bank/credit card statements showing the disputed charge
  • Any chat logs or support ticket responses from Semrush
  • Screenshots of any misleading UI elements or dark patterns you encountered
💡 Tip: Take screenshots with visible timestamps and URLs. Save emails in their original format (EML or PDF).
2

Report Your Case (Get Letter + Build Evidence)

Filing a report accomplishes two critical goals simultaneously:

🏦 For You: Instant Chargeback Letter

  • Personalized letter with consumer protection laws for your country (PSD2, FCBA, etc.)
  • Pre-filled with your details—name, address, charge amount, dates
  • Includes correct chargeback codes for your card type (Visa 13.1, Mastercard 4841, etc.)
  • Ready to print or email to your bank's chargeback department

⚖️ For Everyone: Evidence for Authorities

  • Anonymized data aggregation helps consumer protection agencies identify systematic patterns
  • Regulatory action: Reports may be shared with DGCCRF (France), FTC (US), CMA (UK), and other agencies
  • Public accountability: Statistics page shows collective impact (no personal info)
  • Email optional—report completely anonymously if you prefer
Report Your Case
3

Contact Semrush Support (Create a Paper Trail)

Attempt to resolve directly with Semrush first. This step is required for most chargeback and complaint procedures.

  • Email their support requesting a full refund (use email, not just chat)
  • State clearly: the charge was unauthorized/misleading, you're requesting a refund, and cite relevant consumer law if applicable
  • Keep it factual and professional—avoid emotional language
  • Set a deadline (e.g., "Please respond within 7 days")
Template email:
Subject: Refund Request - Account [your email] - Invoice [number]

I am requesting a full refund for the charge of [amount] on [date]. [Brief factual reason: e.g., "I cancelled my subscription on [date] but was still charged," or "The renewal process was unclear and I did not authorize this charge."]

Please process this refund within 7 days. I have documentation of [cancellation attempt/misleading flow/etc.] and am prepared to escalate to my bank and consumer protection authorities if necessary.

Invoice: [number]
Amount: [amount]
Date: [date]
4

Initiate a Chargeback (If Refund Denied)

If Semrush refuses or ignores your refund request, contact your bank or credit card company immediately.

  • Call your bank's chargeback/dispute department (usually on the back of your card)
  • State reason code: "Services not as described" or "Billing error" (depends on your case)
  • Provide all evidence: screenshots, emails, invoice, support refusal
  • Chargeback window is typically 60-120 days from the charge date—don't wait
⚠️ Important: File the chargeback as soon as possible. Banks have strict deadlines, and waiting reduces your chances of success.
Resources:
5

File a Complaint with Consumer Protection Agencies

Report the issue to official consumer protection bodies. This helps build a case for regulatory action.

🇫🇷 France (DGCCRF)

If you're in France or the EU, file with the DGCCRF (consumer fraud agency):

🇪🇺 European Consumers (CEC)

For cross-border disputes within the EU:

🇺🇸 United States (FTC)

🇬🇧 United Kingdom (Citizens Advice / CMA)

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a chargeback take?

Typically 30-90 days. Your bank will issue a provisional credit while investigating. Semrush may dispute it, requiring you to provide additional evidence.

Will Semrush ban my account?

They may terminate your account after a chargeback. If you don't plan to use their service again, this isn't a concern. If you still need access, try negotiating a refund first.

Can I report this even if I got a refund?

Yes. Reporting helps document the pattern of misleading practices, which helps regulatory agencies take action to protect future consumers.

Is this site affiliated with Semrush?

No. This is an independent consumer advocacy platform with no relationship to Semrush.