Manage Media24

How to cancel your media24 subscription and claim your refund in south africa

What is media24 and why you might want to cancel

Media24 is South Africa's largest media company, publishing digital subscriptions across News24, City Press, YOU magazine, Netwerk24 and other premium titles. The company operates from its head office at the Naspers Centre (40 Heerengracht Street) in Cape Town, with regional offices across the country.

You access Media24 content through web subscriptions, Apple App Store, Google Play, or bundled multi-period upfront plans. If you've decided the subscription no longer serves you-whether due to cost, unused access, or a change in reading habits-Stopee is here to guide you through cancellation with confidence and clarity.

Understanding your media24 subscription options

Media24 offers flexible subscription models: month-to-month recurring charges through the web, annual upfront payments (6 or 12 months), and app-store subscriptions managed by Apple or Google. Each cancellation method follows a different process, and understanding which one applies to your account is the first step toward successful cancellation.

Why stopee can help

Cancelling media subscriptions involves navigating multiple platforms, different refund policies, and South African consumer protection laws. Stopee specialises in breaking down these processes, helping you avoid common pitfalls and claim what you're entitled to. We've handled thousands of Media24 cancellations-and we're here to make yours straightforward.

Your consumer rights under south african law

South Africa's Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008 protects your right to cancel subscriptions and demand fair treatment. Knowing these rights strengthens your position when dealing with Media24.

What the consumer protection act says about cancellations

The Consumer Protection Act gives you the right to cancel a distance contract (including online subscriptions) within 14 calendar days of concluding the agreement, without penalty or cost. For subscriptions that auto-renew, you also have the explicit right to cancel future renewal at any time, and Media24 must respect that cancellation without delay.

If you're cancelling an upfront 6 or 12-month payment and the company refuses a pro rata refund, the National Consumer Commission (NCC) is your escalation authority. Stopee recommends keeping a copy of your cancellation request and any response from Media24 to support a complaint if needed.

Your refund entitlements

For web-based upfront payments, you are entitled to a pro rata refund for the unused portion of your subscription-that is, the price divided by the number of days, multiplied by the days remaining. Media24 must process this within a reasonable timeframe (typically 5-10 business days), unless they can prove a legitimate cancellation penalty applied to your contract.

App-store subscriptions (Apple and Google) follow their own refund policies, which are often stricter. However, South African law still applies: if the app store refuses a refund you believe you deserve, you can escalate the dispute via the NCC or through Stopee's guidance.

How to cancel your media24 subscription by platform

Cancellation steps depend on whether you subscribed via the Media24 website, Apple App Store, or Google Play. Follow the platform-specific instructions below to avoid missed steps and ensure your cancellation is processed correctly.

Cancel via the media24 website (monthly recurring)

This is the simplest cancellation method and gives you the most control over your account. Most readers who subscribe directly through Media24's website use this process.

1. Visit the Media24 website and log into your account using your email and password.
   • If you've forgotten your password, use the "Forgot password?" link on the login page.
   • Ensure you're logged into the correct account if you manage multiple subscriptions.
2. Navigate to your account settings or subscription management section (usually found in your profile menu).
   • Look for labels like "My Subscriptions," "Billing," or "Account Settings."
   • The exact layout may vary depending on which Media24 title you subscribed to (News24, City Press, etc.).
3. Locate your active subscription and select "Cancel" or "Terminate Subscription."
   • Media24 may ask you to confirm your cancellation or offer a discounted renewal rate-decline this if you're certain.
4. Confirm the cancellation on the next screen.
   • Take a screenshot of the confirmation message for your records.
   • You will typically retain access until the end of your current paid billing period.
5. Check your email for a cancellation confirmation from Media24 within 24 hours.
   • Warning: If you don't receive a confirmation email within 24 hours, log back in to verify the cancellation was processed. Some accounts display a delay.

Cancel upfront 6 or 12-month payments (written request required)

Upfront multi-period payments require a formal written cancellation request. This protects both you and Media24 but adds a 20 business day processing window. Plan ahead if you need access to end by a specific date.

1. Prepare a written cancellation request email or letter.
   • Include your full name, email address, account number (if you have it), and subscription title (e.g., "News24 Premium").
   • State the date you want the cancellation to take effect (the effective date will be 20 business days after Media24 receives your request).
2. Send your request to the subscription contact email for your title.
   • For News24, contact subs@news24.com
   • For other Media24 titles, check the publication's contact page or subscription terms for the correct address.
   • Send via email to create a documented record of your request and its timestamp.
3. Wait for Media24's acknowledgement email (you should receive one within 2-3 business days).
   • If you don't receive an acknowledgement, resend your request or contact the subscription team via phone.
4. Mark your calendar for 20 business days after your email was sent.
   • This is when your cancellation officially takes effect.
   • Media24 may contact you to confirm the cancellation or process a refund calculation.
5. Monitor your account and bank statement to confirm no further charges are applied after the 20 business day period.
   • Pro tip: If a charge appears after the 20 business day period, contact the subscription team immediately with your original cancellation email as proof.

Cancel via google play (Android)

Google Play manages all billing for Android app subscriptions, including News24. You must cancel through Google's system, not within the News24 app itself.

1. Open the Google Play app on your Android smartphone or tablet.
   • Ensure you're using the same Google account linked to your News24 subscription.
2. Tap your profile icon in the top right corner, then select "Payments and subscriptions."
   • You'll see a menu with payment methods, billing history, and subscriptions.
3. Tap "Subscriptions" to view all active subscriptions on your account.
   • Look for News24 or any other Media24 title in the list.
4. Select the Media24 subscription you want to cancel.
   • You'll see renewal date, price, and subscription details.
5. Tap "Cancel subscription" and confirm your choice.
   • Google may ask why you're cancelling (optional feedback).
   • Confirm the cancellation-do not tap "Keep subscription" or accept a discounted offer unless you've changed your mind.
6. You'll see a confirmation screen stating "You have cancelled your subscription."
   • Screenshot this confirmation for your records.
   • Your access continues until the end of your current billing period; no immediate refund is issued for partial periods.

Cancel via apple app store (iPhone or iPad)

Apple controls all App Store subscriptions and billing. You must cancel through your Apple ID settings, not within the News24 app.

1. On your iPhone or iPad, open the Settings app.
   • Do not open the News24 app-Apple's cancellation settings override the app's interface.
2. Tap your name at the top of the Settings menu to access your Apple ID.
   • You'll see options for iCloud, passwords, subscriptions, and more.
3. Select "Subscriptions."
   • You'll see all active App Store subscriptions linked to your Apple ID.
4. Tap the Media24 subscription (e.g., "News24 Premium").
   • Review the renewal date, price, and subscription details.
5. Tap "Cancel Subscription" and confirm your choice.
   • Apple may offer a discounted renewal; decline unless you've decided to stay subscribed.
   • You must confirm the cancellation on the final prompt.
6. You'll return to your subscriptions list; verify the Media24 title no longer shows as "Active."
   • Access continues until your renewal date; no refund is issued for partial periods under Apple's standard policy.
   • Pro tip: If you cancelled within 14 days of purchasing the subscription, you may qualify for an Apple refund. Contact Apple Support directly via the App Store, and reference South African consumer protection rights if needed.

What happens immediately after you cancel

Cancellation is just the start. Understanding what to expect after you confirm the cancellation helps you avoid confusion and ensures Media24 honours the agreement.

Your access after cancellation

When you cancel a monthly subscription, you retain full access to your subscription content until midnight on the last day of your paid billing period. For example, if your billing date is the 15th and you cancel on the 20th, your access continues until the 14th of the following month.

Upfront 6 or 12-month cancellations may allow continued access until the end of the purchased period, depending on Media24's terms. Cancellation of app-store subscriptions works the same way: your access lasts until the renewal date, even after you've cancelled.

Auto-renewal stops immediately

Once you cancel, no future charges should be applied to your payment method. If you see a charge after your cancellation takes effect, contact Media24 or the relevant app store immediately. Stopee recommends checking your bank statement 5-7 days after cancellation to confirm no surprise renewals appear.

Your account data and profile

Cancellation does not automatically delete your account or saved preferences. Your profile, bookmarks, and reading history remain on Media24's servers unless you request deletion. If you want Media24 to delete your account and personal data, submit a separate written request to the subscription team-they must comply within 30 days under the Consumer Protection Act and Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).

Will you receive a refund?

Refund eligibility depends on your subscription type and how you paid. Stopee breaks down the rules for each scenario so you know exactly what to expect.

App-store refunds (Apple and google)

Apple App Store and Google Play do not issue refunds or credits for partial billing periods when you cancel. If you cancel on day 5 of a 30-day billing cycle, you forfeit the remaining 25 days-no pro rata refund is available through the standard app-store policy.

However, if you cancelled within 14 calendar days of purchasing the subscription, you may qualify for an exception. Contact Apple Support or Google Play Support directly and cite South African consumer protection laws. Reference your cancellation date and request a refund of the full amount paid. Many users have success with this approach when they act quickly.

Warning: Uninstalling the Media24 app does not cancel your subscription. Your billing continues until you formally cancel through the app store settings. This is a common trap-Stopee has seen readers lose hundreds of rand by assuming app deletion equals cancellation.

Web and upfront payment refunds

Media24 subscriptions purchased directly through the website are eligible for pro rata refunds when you cancel an upfront 6 or 12-month plan. The calculation is straightforward: divide the total price by the number of days in your subscription period, then multiply by the number of unused days.

Example: You paid R1,200 for a 365-day annual subscription. You cancel after 100 days, leaving 265 days unused. Refund = (R1,200 ÷ 365) × 265 = approximately R870.

Media24 processes refunds within 5-10 business days of approving your written cancellation request. The refund returns to your original payment method (credit card, debit card, or digital wallet). Check your bank statement 7-10 days after Media24 confirms the refund to ensure the money arrives.

When media24 may refuse a refund

Media24 reserves the right to withhold refunds if you've violated the subscription terms-for example, sharing access across multiple accounts, using a VPN to access geo-restricted content, or breaching the terms of service. If Media24 claims a violation, ask for written proof of the breach and the specific clause you've violated. If you believe the refusal is unfair, escalate to the National Consumer Commission.

Media24 subscription pricing and plan comparison

Understanding the plans you're currently paying for (or considering) helps you decide whether cancellation is the right choice and validates whether you're receiving fair value.

Common mistakes to avoid when cancelling media24

Cancelling a subscription sounds simple, but small oversights can leave you paying months longer than intended. Here are the traps Stopee has seen readers fall into-and how to sidestep them.

Mistake 1: assuming app deletion cancels your subscription

This is the most costly error. Deleting the Media24 app from your phone does not cancel your subscription or stop future charges. Your billing account remains active on Apple or Google's servers, and your next renewal charge will process automatically. Always cancel through the app-store subscription settings before deleting the app.

Mistake 2: missing the 20 business day deadline for written cancellations

If you're cancelling an upfront 6 or 12-month plan, your cancellation takes effect 20 business days after Media24 receives your written request. If you need access to end by a specific date (e.g., end of month), send your cancellation request well in advance-not days before your deadline. Stopee recommends sending written cancellation requests at least 25 days before your intended cancellation date to account for processing delays.

Mistake 3: not checking for confirmation

After you cancel via the website or written request, confirm that Media24 acknowledges the cancellation. Check your email for a confirmation message within 24 hours. If none arrives, log back into your account and verify the subscription status. If you cancelled via app store, take a screenshot of the cancellation confirmation before closing the settings app. These records protect you if a dispute arises.

Mistake 4: forgetting to monitor your bank statement

Even after cancellation, accidental charges sometimes occur due to system delays or human error. Check your bank statement 5-7 days after your cancellation takes effect. If an unexpected Media24 charge appears, contact your bank and Media24 immediately. The sooner you report it, the faster you can recover the funds.

Mistake 5: accepting a discount offer instead of cancelling

Media24 and the app stores often offer discounted renewal rates when you attempt to cancel-sometimes 50% off the next month or a 3-month extension at a reduced price. If you've decided to cancel, decline these offers. Accepting them restarts your auto-renewal, and you'll need to cancel again. Stopee recommends a firm "No, cancel my subscription" response to these prompts.

How to claim a refund if media24 refuses

If you've submitted a cancellation request and Media24 refuses a refund you believe you deserve, South African law gives you a clear escalation path. Stopee walks you through the process.

Step 1: request written justification from media24

Email the subscription team and ask why your refund request was denied. Request a detailed written response within 5 business days. Media24 must explain the specific reason-for example, "breach of terms," "refund policy limitation," or "cancellation outside the 14-day window." A vague refusal is not sufficient under the Consumer Protection Act.

Step 2: escalate internally within media24

If the first response is unsatisfactory, escalate to Media24's customer service manager or complaints department. Include your original cancellation request, their refusal, and your detailed response explaining why you believe a refund is due. Set a 10 business day deadline for a meaningful response.

Step 3: file a complaint with the national consumer commission

If Media24 does not resolve your complaint, lodge a formal complaint with the National Consumer Commission (NCC). The NCC is South Africa's official consumer protection authority and has the power to order Media24 to issue a refund plus penalties. You can file a complaint online at ncc.org.za or by post. Include all documentation: your subscription agreement, cancellation request, Media24's refusal, and communication attempts.

Pro tip: Stopee recommends filing an NCC complaint if you're owed more than R500. The NCC process is free and has proven effective in recovering refunds for South African consumers in similar disputes.

Step-by-step checklist for a smooth cancellation

Use this checklist before, during, and after you cancel to ensure nothing falls through the cracks.

Before you cancel

• Confirm your subscription type (monthly web, annual upfront, or app store).
• Check your current billing date and next renewal date.
• Write down your account email and subscription title (e.g., "News24 Premium").
• Review Media24's cancellation and refund policy on their website.
• Take a screenshot of your active subscription status for your records.

During cancellation

• Follow the cancellation steps for your platform (website, Google Play, or Apple App Store).
• Confirm the cancellation by clicking the final confirmation button.
• Screenshot the confirmation message immediately.
• For written cancellations, send via email and keep a copy of your sent message (with timestamp).
• Note the exact date and time you submitted your cancellation.

After you cancel

• Check your email for a Media24 cancellation confirmation within 24 hours.
• Log back into your Media24 account and verify the subscription shows as "Cancelled" or "Inactive."
• Mark your calendar for the date your access expires (end of current billing period).
• Monitor your bank statement for 7-10 days to confirm no new charges appear.
• If you're owed a refund, verify it appears in your bank account within 10 business days.
• Keep all confirmation emails and screenshots for at least 12 months (useful if a dispute arises).

Your next steps: cancel with confidence

Cancelling Media24 is straightforward once you know the process. Whether you're cancelling a monthly website subscription, an upfront annual plan, or an app-store purchase, Stopee has provided the exact steps, your consumer rights, and the escalation path if anything goes wrong.

Start today by identifying your subscription type and following the corresponding cancellation method. Keep your confirmation email and screenshots secure. If Media24 charges you after cancellation or refuses a refund you're entitled to, use the escalation steps and contact the National Consumer Commission-you have the law on your side.

Stopee has helped thousands of South African consumers cancel subscriptions, claim refunds, and understand their consumer rights. Your cancellation is our priority. For personalised guidance or if you encounter resistance from Media24, contact Stopee directly at stopee.com and let us advocate on your behalf.

Contact information for media24

Media24 head office (Cape town)

Media24 (Pty) Ltd
Naspers Centre
40 Heerengracht Street
Cape Town, 8001
South Africa

Subscription support by publication

• News24: subs@news24.com
• City Press: Check citypressonline.com for subscription contact details.
• YOU magazine: Contact via the YOU website or app support menu.
• Netwerk24: Refer to netwerk24.com for subscription inquiries.

Escalation authority

National Consumer Commission (NCC)
Website: ncc.org.za
Complaints can be filed online or by post. The NCC is your free, official recourse if Media24 refuses to honour your cancellation or refund rights.