Online retailers warned of 'red lines' over pressure-selling tactics

The competition watchdog has announced a crackdown on online pressure-selling tactics that can push consumers into making hasty decisions they later regret. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has written to online businesses to warn them about its “red lines” on urgency and price reduction claims such as “10 people are watching this now,” “Hurry, today only!” and countdown timers for deals. Such claims can be acceptable if true, but the CMA is warning they will breach the law if they are false or misleading or place unfair pressure on consumers.

The campaign aims to enable consumers to spot and avoid misleading online sales tactics and to report businesses that engage in them (CMA/PA)

The letter reads: “These claims have a legitimate place when they alert consumers to genuine special offers or provide helpful information about current selling conditions.

“However, we have become concerned about claims that may mislead or put unfair pressure on consumers in the UK. “Such claims may be illegal under consumer protection regulations, harm consumers by distorting their behaviour and put fair-dealing businesses at a disadvantage.”

Tactics include pressure selling, hidden charges, subscription traps and fake reviews, which are all designed to “mislead and push people to part with their cash online” (CMA/PA)

The CMA is inviting consumers to report online rip-offs via a new digital reporting form. The Online Rip-Off Tip-Off campaign, fronted by Martin Lewis Money Show co-presenter Angellica Bell, aims to crack down on practices that could break the law and encourages shoppers to be aware of online scammers.

The campaign aims to enable consumers to spot and avoid misleading online sales tactics and to report businesses that engage in them. The tactics include pressure selling, hidden charges, subscription traps and fake reviews, which are all designed to “mislead and push people to part with their cash online”. A survey of 3,700 UK adults for the CMA found that 67% say cost-of-living pressures have made them more desperate to find the best deals, while 71% believe they are “saving money” by purchasing deals that are on offer – some of which may not be genuine.

It also revealed 24% of consumers have fallen victim to “sneaky” online sales tactics, while 23% did not realise that tactics such as “15 mins left of sale” or “buy now” can sometimes be false or misleading. Some 68% thought these types of misleading tactics should be banned. Bell said: “Some online businesses are using sneaky sales tactics to make us part with our money when household budgets are already stretched.

“We all feel the pressure of securing bargains, making us more susceptible to being ripped off. It’s frustrating when this happens and it’s time we call out these online retailers and report them to the CMA.” CMA senior director for consumer protection, George Lusty, said: “Now more than ever, every penny counts and the CMA is concerned that some businesses are using underhand tactics designed to part shoppers from their cash.

“This poll is just the tip of the iceberg as we believe the true number of victims of these rip-offs is much higher as they are often extremely difficult to spot.

“That’s why businesses using urgency and price reduction claims need to consult the CMA’s new advice.

It outlines what businesses need to do when designing their online shopping experiences to be sure they comply with the law.”

Tags:

biscuiteers listed on couponmatrix.ukcrocs listed on couponmatrix.uklondon-eye listed on couponmatrix.ukmenkind listed on couponmatrix.ukprc-direct listed on couponmatrix.ukwilko listed on couponmatrix.uk
biscuiteers listed on couponmatrix.ukForget flowers, what better way to show someone how much you love them than with the gift of food? And something sweet for that matter! Use your Biscuiteers discount code to get a discount on hand-decorated artisan cookies and biscuits that not only look but taste truly delicious. Whether you’re shopping for a birthday or are celebrating another special occasion, send a gift box of goodies from Biscuiteers and you’re sure to be popular.
crocs listed on couponmatrix.ukSince giving the human foot some sole in 2002, Crocs has used the galosh-inspired design as a springboard from which to move into the world of sneakers, boots, high heels and wedges. So with your choice of style made, be sure to grab a Crocs discount code for extra savings.
london-eye listed on couponmatrix.ukStanding at a mind-boggling one hundred and thirty-five metres, the London Eye has offered guests a brand new perspective of London since it opened to usher in the millennium. Step into a pod, sail into the sky and enjoy a panoramic view of the River Thames, the beautiful sprawling streets and London’s best landmarks. As London’s very own equivalent to the Eiffel Tower, booking London Eye tickets should be on every tourist’s bucket list – get them online to save money and skip the queue! You can take the trip for less with a London Eye discount code and treat your family and friends to the best views in London. Whether you want general tickets, London Eye and Madame Tussauds tickets, or a VIP champagne experience, we’re here to help you save money on the experiences you love.
menkind listed on couponmatrix.ukGift-giving can be a tiresome process. Luckily, with Menkind gift-giving has never been easier, more original, or more fun. With thousands of quirky gadgets and gifts available, Menkind is the ultimate source for your gifting needs. With a variety of gifts available including: gadgets, gaming, music, funny, romantic, birthdays, weddings and much much more, Menkind make it easy to give a gift that matters. With the Menkind discount code you can enjoy fantastic gifts for less. Every person is unique, so why not get them a unique gift with Menkind?
prc-direct listed on couponmatrix.ukPRC Direct is the leading online retailer of electrical goods and appliances offering a wide range of products from food processors to 4K TVs. This brand has some unbeatable prices, and it's so easy for customers to save money with the frequent PRC Direct discount codes and vouchers available at Groupon. If you’re looking for a new washing machine, oven or air purifier, PRC Direct should be your first port of call, and with the help of PRC Direct discount codes from Groupon, you can make great savings on your purchase! At Groupon, we’re always on the lookout for the latest and greatest PRC Direct voucher codes and flash sales. We work closely with the retailer to ensure that we can bring you the best deals possible, so you can expect big-ticket items like Samsung fridges and Rangemaster ovens to create less of a dent in your bank account. Our team of deal experts is always on hand to help you make the most of your savings, so if you’re looking for a competitive price on home electricals, be sure to check Groupon first. There’s nothing like binging your favourite films and Netflix shows in crisp high definition, so turn your living room into a mini cinema with PRC Direct TVs. Suitable for various budgets and with fancy features like 4K (even 8K!), OLED and QLED, save money on your cinematic investment by checking Groupon first for PRC Direct voucher codes. Whether you prefer to go big or go home, or want to keep things mini with a 1080p projector, make sure you take advantage of Groupon’s exclusive deals.
wilko listed on couponmatrix.ukWilko is known for selling all things household and hardware at a reasonable price. Online and in store you will find a wide variety of products for your home including paint, lighting, accessories, DIY essentials, curtains and more. When you fancy giving your lounge a makeover or if it's time to spruce up the kitchen, find your favourite Wilko discount code from Groupon and you're in for a treat! With plenty of quality furniture, appliances, storage solutions and decorating products available for less, you can go above and beyond for your home with Wilko.