If the payment period expires, does the hosting have the right to disable access to files?
I recently encountered a situation where I had a balance of only $1 left, which is obviously less than the monthly subscription fee. Since I planned to switch to a different hosting provider, I wanted to download my files and backup the database. However, when I tried accessing them, I received a message stating that my access was closed. I reached out to tech support, and they informed me that since there were no funds in my account, I had no access to my files and the database. They offered to enable access for an additional $5, meaning I would have to pay for an entire month.

I'm curious about the legality of these actions on the part of the hosting provider. Should they restrict access to the database when there are no funds on the account (considering they have already disabled the website)?

Is it possible to request all files and database dumps in the form of an archive when terminating the contract?

We would appreciate insights from lawyers or anyone who has faced a similar problem.

In most cases, hosting providers have the right to take certain actions if payment is not made according to the agreed-upon terms. This may include disabling access to files and databases associated with the account. The specific terms and conditions outlined in your hosting agreement will determine the extent of their rights and actions they can take.

To understand the legality of the actions taken by your hosting provider, it is necessary to review the terms and conditions of your contract. Pay attention to clauses related to payment, access to files, and termination procedures.

When terminating the contract, it is typically possible to request all files and database dumps in the form of an archive. Again, the specific terms and conditions of your hosting agreement will determine the process and any fees associated with such requests. It is advisable to review the termination procedures outlined in the agreement or contact the hosting provider directly for clarity on the process.

If you feel that your hosting provider has acted unlawfully or inappropriately, it may be beneficial to consult with a lawyer who specializes in internet law or contract law. They can review the specific details of your situation and advise you on the legal aspects and potential courses of action available to you.

You find yourself in a sort of wilderness: volvo, garages, rent...
The situation is straightforward and does not necessitate any legal analysis whatsoever: services are provided on a prepaid basis, and failure to pay results in the suspension of service provision. This adheres to the laws in place. The contract explicitly states that the service costs $5; both parties agreed on this point when the contract was signed, so it is peculiar to demand anything with only $1 in your account.

Your arguments regarding "oh, I just need to retrieve the files; it's a shame to lose them" may be suitable in casual relationships with friends or family, where matters are resolved through persuasion or requests. However, by entering into a contractual agreement with the hoster, you have entered into a legally regulated relationship. According to the law, both parties are obligated to fulfill the responsibilities outlined in the contract. In the case of one party failing to fulfill their obligations, the other party has the right to terminate their own obligations - which is exactly what happened in your situation.

In order to avoid such incidents (which are generally unreasonable, as they have already explained to you), hosters usually find it easier to provide a backup or unblock the account before the end of the day. However, from a contractual standpoint, they are within their rights. According to the contract, they are obligated to store data (hosters typically store data for a few days to two months after blocking), but they are not obligated to provide any services, including access.

One small tip: the hoster is obligated to refund any unused funds. So, if you cancel the hosting service, the funds should be returned to your account balance, and you can withdraw those funds. You can refer to the Rules for the Provision of Telematics Services. Allow me to quote:

40. The subscriber and/or user have the right to request a refund of the funds they have prepaid, including through a payment card. The telecom operator must refund the remaining balance of funds to the subscriber and/or user.

Therefore, after deducting the days already worked, the funds should be returned to you.