How companies weaponize the terms of service against you
The Verge·May 14, 2026
Brendan Ballou, founder of the Public Integrity Project, discusses the rise of forced arbitration and its impact on consumers and employees. Forced arbitration is a private alternative to the justice system, where individuals are required to resolve disputes with companies through private arbitration, rather than through the court system. This can lead to unfair outcomes, as the arbitrator is often paid by the company and may rule in their favor. Ballou argues that forced arbitration is a major contributor to the erosion of trust in the justice system and the feeling of powerlessness among individuals. He suggests that individuals can take action by supporting legislation that limits forced arbitration and by demanding more transparency and fairness in the arbitration process. Ballou also notes that some states, such as California, have made progress in limiting forced arbitration, and that individuals can make a difference by getting involved in their local communities and advocating for change.
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