I think their analysis is mistaken. I think NYT lawyers could successfully argue that virtual chat complies, at least enough that they'd get a slap on the wrist

I think their analysis is mistaken. I think NYT lawyers could successfully argue that virtual chat complies, at least enough that they'd get a slap on the wrist at worst. From the law linked in your article: (b) A business that makes automatic renewal or continuous service offers shall provide a toll-free telephone number, electronic mail address, a postal address if the seller directly bills the consumer, or another cost-effective, timely, and easy-to-use mechanism for cancellation that shall be described in the acknowledgment specified in paragraph (3) of subdivision (a). Edit: I do see a later clause that says transactions that start online have to be endable online. But there's no stipulation that it be a simple "click". Even though I think this is scummy, I think they're within the letter of the law.