Petition to Apple: Remove Lumos VPN and Take Action Against Misleading Apps

 

 

 

 

We are calling on Apple to remove the app "VPN Lumos: Open and connect USA" from the App Store and to take stronger action against apps that use deceptive, manipulative tactics to exploit users.

Lumos VPN displays intrusive pop-up ads, including in Safari, even when the app isn’t actively in use.

 

 

It aggressively promotes a seven-day free trial that quietly turns into an expensive subscription if not canceled well in advance. Many users have reported being charged despite thinking they canceled in time. Deleting the app does not stop the billing.

 

What’s more alarming is the app’s apparent use of fake 5-star reviews to artificially inflate its rating. Honest user reviews that raise concerns often disappear or get buried under waves of suspiciously similar praise. This makes it difficult for new users to make informed decisions and hides the real problems with the app.

 

 

 

These practices are predatory. They take advantage of users’ trust in Apple and in the App Store’s review and subscription systems. Vulnerable users, including children and the elderly, are especially at risk.

We ask Apple to:

Remove Lumos VPN from the App Store
Investigate the app's review and rating practices
Audit similar apps that use aggressive marketing and subscription models
Strengthen enforcement of App Store guidelines to prevent abuse
The App Store should be a place where users feel safe, informed, and respected. Please sign and share this petition to help hold developers accountable and protect users from being misled.