Amazon updates terms to require arbitration, blocking most class-action lawsuits

Amazon emailed customers on Friday to notify them of changes to its terms and conditions. The update requires disputes to be settled through arbitration and includes a class-action waiver, effectively preventing customers from pursuing group lawsuits. Amazon described the change as a faster and more efficient way to resolve issues, though critics note it removes access to judge or jury proceedings in most cases. Customers retain the option to bring certain claims to small claims court, where payouts are typically capped at a few thousand dollars.