Anthropic deserves mass chargebacks for predatory billing policies

Overview

Anthropic's Claude AI is accused of unfairly charging users extra usage fees when certain files (like 'Hermes.md') are present in their project directories, even if they still have remaining quota on their $200/month Max plan. This is seen as a deceptive tactic to push users toward more expensive API billing.

The Problem

• Users on Claude Max plan pay $200/month for a set amount of usage.
• If a file named 'Hermes.md' (capital H, .md extension) is detected, Claude starts billing 'extra usage' at a higher rate, even if the user hasn't exhausted their quota.
• This only happens when users have files associated with using Claude outside its official harness (e.g., with OpenClaw or other frameworks).
• Anthropic's support response admitted the billing error but refused compensation, citing terms of service.

The Host's Argument

• This is fraudulent: charging users more without disclosure.
• The real goal is to push users to API billing, which is more expensive per query.
• Users should not just file support tickets but also file chargebacks with their credit card companies.

Why Chargebacks Work

• Chargebacks create friction for companies; they must manually respond.
• Merchant services may drop companies with high chargeback rates.
• Chargeback agents often side with customers, especially against large corporations.
• A mass chargeback campaign could force Anthropic to change its policy.

Recommended Action

• File a chargeback with your credit card provider before or alongside a support ticket.
• Band together with other affected users to increase pressure.
• This is more effective than relying on Anthropic's support system.