The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has launched a refund claims process for users of the anonymous messaging app NGL who were misled into paying for its premium service under deceptive practices.
The process targets users who subscribed to NGL Pro between January 2022 and July 2024 and were charged without proper authorization.
The refund program stems from a joint enforcement action announced in July 2024 by the FTC and the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office. The agencies alleged that NGL Labs Inc. and its co-founders used fake messages and manipulative marketing tactics to drive paid subscriptions. According to the complaint filed in federal court, NGL falsely claimed that upgrading to its Pro version would reveal the identities of anonymous message senders, functionality that never existed.
Investigators also uncovered that the company charged users on a recurring basis, up to $9.99 weekly, often without clear disclosure or user consent. Many customers reportedly believed they were making a one-time payment and were caught off guard by the recurring charges. Requests for refunds were routinely ignored, according to the FTC’s complaint.
NGL Labs, based in the United States, developed and operated the NGL app, a platform that allows users to receive anonymous messages, with heavy promotion on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Launched with viral appeal among teens, the app quickly gained traction, particularly with users under 18. The company reportedly capitalized on this popularity by targeting minors without obtaining parental consent, potentially violating the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).
Under the settlement, NGL and its co-founders agreed to pay $4.5 million to fund consumer refunds. Additionally, they are permanently banned from offering anonymous messaging services to users under the age of 18.
To qualify for a refund, consumers must have paid for NGL Pro between January 2022 and July 2024, and they must have experienced unauthorized charges. Claimants must be at least 18 years old to file, though parents or guardians may file on behalf of minors. The deadline to submit a claim is April 6, 2026.
The FTC emphasizes that no fees are required to submit a claim and warns consumers against scammers who might promise faster processing or guaranteed payouts in exchange for payment.
Approved payment amounts will vary depending on the number of claims received. Refunds are expected to be issued later in 2026, with updates to be posted on the FTC’s website as more information becomes available.
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