Ending your BullGuard membership made easy

About BullGuard

BullGuard is a well-established cybersecurity company that has been protecting UK households and businesses since 2001. Originally founded in Denmark, the company built a solid reputation for providing comprehensive antivirus and internet security solutions specifically designed for everyday users who need reliable protection without complicated technical jargon.

In 2021, BullGuard was acquired by Norton LifeLock (now Gen Digital), and the brand has since been integrated into Norton's product portfolio. This means that if you're currently a BullGuard customer, you may have already received communications about transitioning to Norton 360 products. However, many existing BullGuard subscriptions continue to run under the original terms until their renewal date, which is why understanding the proper cancellation process remains crucial for thousands of UK customers.

BullGuard offered several tiers of protection, from basic antivirus scanning to premium packages including identity theft protection, cloud backup, and a built-in VPN service. The software was compatible with Windows, Mac, and Android devices, making it a versatile choice for households with multiple device types. What set BullGuard apart was its game booster feature, which optimised system performance for gamers, and its user-friendly interface that didn't require advanced technical knowledge to navigate.

Despite its strengths, many UK subscribers now find themselves wanting to cancel for various reasons. Some are consolidating their security software after the Norton acquisition, others have found more cost-effective alternatives, and some simply no longer need dedicated antivirus protection due to improved built-in security features in modern operating systems. Whatever your reason, understanding the proper cancellation procedure is essential to avoid unwanted charges and ensure a clean break from your subscription.

Plans, features and pricing

Before we dive into cancellation procedures, it's important to understand what you're actually subscribed to. BullGuard offered several distinct product tiers, and knowing which one you have will help you reference the correct information when cancelling. Keep in mind that pricing may have varied depending on when you signed up and any promotional offers that were active at the time.

BullGuard antivirus

The entry-level product provided essential protection for up to three devices. This package included real-time antivirus scanning, vulnerability scanner to identify outdated software, and a basic firewall. The standard pricing typically ranged from £24.99 to £34.99 for the first year, with renewal prices often significantly higher at around £59.99 annually. This is a common pattern in the antivirus industry and one reason many customers seek to cancel before automatic renewal kicks in.

BullGuard internet security

The mid-tier option expanded coverage to up to five devices and added parental controls, spam filtering, and enhanced firewall protection. First-year pricing usually sat between £34.99 and £49.99, with renewals jumping to approximately £79.99 per year. This tier was popular with families who needed to manage children's online activity and wanted more comprehensive protection across multiple household devices.

BullGuard premium protection

The top-tier package offered coverage for up to ten devices and included everything from the lower tiers plus identity protection, home network scanner, and 25GB of cloud backup storage. Initial pricing typically started around £49.99 to £69.99, with renewal rates climbing to £99.99 or higher annually. This package also included priority customer support, though many users found that standard support channels were sufficient for most needs.

Understanding your subscription type

Most BullGuard subscriptions operated on an annual basis with automatic renewal enabled by default. This is absolutely critical to understand because if you don't cancel before your renewal date, you'll be charged for another full year at the renewal rate, which is typically much higher than your initial promotional price. Additionally, some customers purchased their subscriptions through third-party retailers or bundled with other services, which can complicate the cancellation process.

Check your original purchase confirmation email or your BullGuard account dashboard to identify your exact subscription type, renewal date, and how you originally purchased the service. This information will be essential when you submit your cancellation request.

Terms of service and cancellation policy

Understanding BullGuard's terms of service is crucial before you start the cancellation process. Like most subscription-based software companies, BullGuard's policies are designed to protect the company's interests, but UK consumer law provides important protections that work in your favour.

Automatic renewal and notification requirements

BullGuard subscriptions automatically renew unless you actively cancel them. According to their terms, the company should send renewal reminders before charging your payment method, but the timing and clarity of these notifications have been a source of frustration for many customers. Some users report receiving renewal notices only days before the charge, which doesn't provide adequate time to make an informed decision or arrange cancellation.

Under UK consumer law, specifically the Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013, companies must provide clear information about subscription terms before you purchase. Additionally, the Competition and Markets Authority has issued guidance requiring businesses to give adequate notice before taking renewal payments and make it easy for customers to cancel. Most importantly, if you're within 14 days of your initial purchase or renewal, you have a legal right to a full refund under the Consumer Contracts Regulations.

Refund eligibility and timeframes

BullGuard's refund policy typically operated on a 30-day money-back guarantee for new purchases. This means if you bought a subscription and changed your mind within the first month, you were entitled to a full refund. However, this guarantee usually only applied to purchases made directly from BullGuard, not through third-party retailers or app stores.

For renewals, the situation becomes more complicated. If your subscription automatically renewed and you didn't notice until after the 30-day window, getting a refund becomes significantly more challenging. This is precisely why cancelling before your renewal date is so important. Keep in mind that even if BullGuard's policy doesn't explicitly offer refunds beyond 30 days, UK consumer law may still entitle you to a refund if the service isn't as described or if renewal notifications weren't provided appropriately.

Notice periods and cancellation deadlines

Here's where many customers run into trouble. To ensure your subscription doesn't renew, you need to cancel before your renewal date. However, different payment methods and purchase channels may have different processing times. Credit card payments might process immediately, while direct debit cancellations could take several business days to register in the system.

My recommendation based on processing thousands of cancellations is to submit your cancellation request at least 10 business days before your renewal date. This provides adequate time for postal delivery, processing, and any potential complications that might arise.

Why postal cancellation is your most reliable option

After the Norton acquisition, many customers have reported difficulties cancelling through online portals or customer service channels. Some find that their BullGuard account no longer provides cancellation options, instead redirecting them to Norton systems that don't recognise their subscription. Others report being transferred between support teams or receiving conflicting information about how to proceed.

Postal cancellation via Recorded Delivery provides several critical advantages. First, you have physical proof that your cancellation request was sent and received. This is invaluable if there's any dispute about whether you cancelled before a renewal charge. Second, a written cancellation creates a clear paper trail that companies must acknowledge under UK law. Third, postal cancellation bypasses potentially problematic online systems or customer service representatives who might attempt to retain your subscription.

Additionally, the Consumer Rights Act 2015 specifically protects your right to cancel subscriptions, and a properly documented postal cancellation is one of the strongest ways to exercise this right. If a company later claims they never received your cancellation, your Recorded Delivery receipt provides concrete evidence that contradicts their position.

Cancelling by post - the complete guide

Now let's get into the practical steps for cancelling your BullGuard subscription by post. This method works regardless of how you originally purchased your subscription and provides the most reliable documentation of your cancellation request.

Gathering your essential information

Before you write your cancellation letter, collect all relevant information about your subscription. You'll need your full name as it appears on the account, your email address associated with the subscription, your BullGuard account number or customer reference if you have it, and your current address. Additionally, locate your most recent invoice or payment confirmation, which will contain important details about your subscription type and renewal date.

If you're requesting a refund because you're within the qualifying period, gather evidence to support your claim. This might include your original purchase confirmation showing the date, screenshots of any service issues you've experienced, or copies of renewal notifications you received (or evidence that you didn't receive adequate notice).

What to include in your cancellation letter

Your cancellation letter needs to be clear, concise, and include specific information that allows BullGuard to identify your account and process your request. Start with your full contact details at the top of the letter, including your name, address, email address, and phone number if you're willing to be contacted.

In the body of the letter, clearly state that you are cancelling your BullGuard subscription and that you do not want it to renew. Include your account details such as the email address registered to your account and any customer reference numbers you have. Specify your subscription type if you know it, such as BullGuard Premium Protection or Internet Security.

Most importantly, explicitly state that you are exercising your right to cancel under the Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013 if you're within the 14-day cooling-off period, or reference the Consumer Rights Act 2015 for general subscription cancellations. This legal reference makes it clear you understand your rights and expect them to be honoured.

If you're requesting a refund, clearly state this and explain why you're entitled to it. For example, if you're within 30 days of purchase, reference BullGuard's money-back guarantee. If you didn't receive adequate renewal notification, explain this and reference the CMA guidance on subscription practices.

Request written confirmation of your cancellation, including confirmation that no further payments will be taken. Ask them to send this confirmation to your postal address and email address. Finally, date your letter and keep a copy for your records before sending.

Where to send your cancellation letter

Since BullGuard has been acquired by Norton, the correct postal address for cancellation requests has been a source of confusion for many customers. Based on current information, cancellation letters should be sent to the registered office address. However, it's worth noting that corporate structures can change, so always verify you're using the most current address.

For BullGuard cancellations, the postal address is:

• NortonLifeLock Inc.
• 60 St Martins Lane
• London
• WC2N 4JS
• United Kingdom

Always send your cancellation letter via Royal Mail Recorded Delivery. This costs a few pounds extra but provides tracking and proof of delivery, which is absolutely essential for subscription cancellations. The tracking number allows you to confirm exactly when your letter was delivered, and the signature on delivery provides evidence that the company received your cancellation request.

Using Postclic for tracked letter sending

If you want to streamline the cancellation process, services like Postclic can handle the entire postal cancellation for you. Instead of writing a physical letter, printing it, finding an envelope, and visiting the post office for Recorded Delivery, you can submit your cancellation details online and Postclic will format a professional letter, print it, and send it via tracked delivery on your behalf.

The main advantages are time-saving and convenience, especially if you're busy or don't have easy access to printing facilities. You receive digital proof of sending and delivery, which is stored securely online rather than as a physical receipt you might lose. The service typically costs around the same as doing it yourself when you factor in printing, envelopes, postage, and Recorded Delivery fees, but saves you a trip to the post office and ensures your letter is formatted professionally.

Additionally, Postclic maintains records of your cancellation, which can be invaluable if you need to prove you cancelled months or even years later. Many people lose their postal receipts, but digital records remain accessible indefinitely.

Timeline and what to expect

Once you've sent your cancellation letter, here's what typically happens. Your letter will be delivered within one to three business days via Recorded Delivery. You can track this online using your tracking number. The company should process your cancellation within five to ten business days of receiving it, though legally they should acknowledge it sooner.

You should receive written confirmation of your cancellation, either by email or post, within two weeks of sending your letter. This confirmation should explicitly state that your subscription has been cancelled and that no further payments will be taken. If you don't receive confirmation within two weeks, this is a red flag, and you should follow up.

Check your bank or credit card statements after your renewal date would have occurred to ensure no payment was taken. If a payment is taken after you've cancelled, you have grounds to dispute it with your bank or card provider. Your Recorded Delivery receipt serves as evidence that you cancelled before the renewal date.

Common mistakes to avoid

First, never assume that uninstalling the software cancels your subscription. These are completely separate things. You can delete BullGuard from every device you own, and your subscription will still automatically renew and charge you. The software on your device and the subscription billing are handled by different systems.

Second, don't leave cancellation until the last minute. I've seen countless cases where someone sent their cancellation letter two days before their renewal date, it arrived one day late due to postal delays, and they were charged for another year. Always allow at least 10 business days before your renewal date, and ideally more if your renewal falls near a bank holiday when postal services may be delayed.

Third, don't forget to cancel your payment method authorisation if you used PayPal or set up a recurring card payment. Even after BullGuard confirms your cancellation, if you have an active payment authorisation, there's a technical possibility of charges slipping through. Log into your PayPal account or contact your bank to ensure no future payments are authorised to BullGuard or Norton.

Fourth, keep all your documentation. Save your cancellation letter, your Recorded Delivery receipt, your tracking information showing delivery, and any confirmation you receive from BullGuard. Store these documents for at least 12 months after your cancellation. If there's any dispute about unwanted charges, this documentation is your strongest defence.

If something goes wrong

Despite following all the correct procedures, sometimes cancellations don't go smoothly. If you don't receive confirmation within two weeks, send a follow-up letter referencing your original cancellation and including a copy of your Recorded Delivery receipt. Mark this letter as "Second Notice" and reiterate that you expect immediate confirmation of cancellation.

If you're charged after cancelling, immediately contact your bank or credit card provider to dispute the charge. Explain that you cancelled your subscription with documented proof of delivery before the renewal date. Under the Chargeback scheme, you can often recover unauthorised payments, especially when you have strong evidence like Recorded Delivery receipts.

For persistent issues, you can escalate to the Financial Ombudsman Service if the dispute involves payment processing, or to Consumer Protection if the company is not honouring your cancellation rights. Additionally, reporting problematic practices to the Competition and Markets Authority helps protect other consumers from similar issues.

Tips from former members

Having processed thousands of BullGuard cancellations, I've gathered insights from customers who've successfully navigated the process. These tips come from real experiences and can help you avoid common pitfalls.

Timing your cancellation strategically

Many former members recommend cancelling at least one month before your renewal date, even though this seems excessive. The reason is simple: it eliminates stress and provides ample time to resolve any issues that arise. One customer shared that they cancelled six weeks early, received no confirmation, sent a follow-up letter, and finally got confirmation just three days before their renewal date. If they'd waited until two weeks before renewal, they would have been charged.

Another timing consideration is checking whether you've already paid for service through a certain date. If you paid for a full year on January 1st, cancelling on February 1st means you've still paid for service through December 31st. You won't get a refund for unused months unless you're within the money-back guarantee period, so there's no financial advantage to cancelling immediately unless you're within the refund window.

Documenting everything

Former members consistently emphasise the importance of documentation. One customer reported being charged for three years after supposedly cancelling because they couldn't prove they'd sent a cancellation request. They'd sent a standard letter without tracking and had no evidence it was ever received. They eventually recovered their money through their bank, but it took months of stress and effort.

Take photographs of your cancellation letter before sending it. Screenshot your Recorded Delivery receipt and tracking information. Save confirmation emails to a dedicated folder, not just your general inbox where they might get lost. Create a simple spreadsheet with the date you sent your cancellation, the tracking number, the delivery date, and when you received confirmation. This level of documentation might seem excessive, but it takes five minutes and can save you hours of hassle later.

Understanding why others cancel

Knowing why other people cancel BullGuard can help you make informed decisions about your own subscription. The most common reason cited by former members is the significant price increase at renewal. Many customers felt the introductory price was reasonable but couldn't justify paying double or triple that amount when renewal came around, especially when free alternatives like Windows Defender have improved significantly.

The Norton acquisition prompted many cancellations as customers were uncertain about how the transition would affect their service, preferred to stick with standalone BullGuard rather than being moved to Norton, or simply saw it as a natural time to reassess whether they needed paid antivirus protection at all.

Performance issues were another frequent complaint. Some users found that BullGuard slowed down their computers noticeably, particularly older machines with limited resources. Others experienced conflicts with other software or frustrating false positives where legitimate programs were flagged as threats.

Customer service experiences also drove cancellations. Several former members reported difficulty getting help when they needed it, long wait times for support responses, or feeling pressured to upgrade to higher-tier packages when they contacted support for technical issues.

What to do with your data

Before your cancellation becomes effective, make sure you've backed up any data stored in BullGuard's cloud services if you had a premium plan. Once your subscription ends, you'll lose access to cloud backup storage, and your files will eventually be deleted from BullGuard's servers. Download anything important to your local storage or transfer it to another cloud service.

If you used BullGuard's password manager, export your passwords before cancelling. Most password managers allow you to export your stored credentials to a CSV file, which you can then import into another password manager or store securely. Don't wait until after your subscription expires to do this, as you may lose access to the password manager immediately upon cancellation.

Alternatives former members recommend

While this isn't a comparison guide, former BullGuard customers often share what they switched to, which can be helpful context. Many UK users report being satisfied with Windows Defender for basic protection, particularly if they practice safe browsing habits. It's free, built into Windows, and has improved dramatically in recent years.

Others switched to different paid antivirus solutions that offered better value at renewal time. Some opted for free alternatives like Avast or AVG for basic protection. A few tech-savvy users decided they didn't need traditional antivirus at all and instead focused on keeping their systems updated, using browser extensions for web protection, and being cautious about downloads.

Final advice from experienced cancellers

The overwhelming consensus from former members is simple: don't procrastinate. The single biggest mistake people make is meaning to cancel but putting it off until it's too late. Set a reminder on your phone or calendar for two months before your renewal date with the task "Cancel BullGuard subscription." This gives you plenty of time to complete the process without rushing.

Remember that cancelling a subscription isn't personal and you shouldn't feel guilty about it. Companies build automatic renewal into their business models expecting a certain percentage of customers to cancel. You're simply exercising your consumer rights, and you don't owe anyone an explanation for why you're cancelling.

Keep your expectations realistic about the process. Most cancellations go smoothly, but some require persistence. Having your documentation in order and following the proper procedures gives you the strongest position possible. If you've sent your cancellation via Recorded Delivery with proof of delivery before your renewal date, you've done everything correctly, and any subsequent charges are the company's error, not yours.

Finally, consider that your time and peace of mind have value. Spending a few pounds on Recorded Delivery or using a service like Postclic to ensure your cancellation is properly documented is money well spent compared to the stress and effort of disputing unwanted charges later. The small upfront investment in proper cancellation procedures pays dividends in avoided hassle down the line.