According to the European Commission, many webshops try to manipulate consumers with prohibited substances and, for example, to encourage them to make purchasing decisions. An audit by the Brussels authorities and the responsible authorities of 25 European countries found that 148 of the 399 websites examined used at least one manipulation tactic, the European Commission announced on Monday.
For example, retailers in the textile and electronics industry were inspected last year. Therefore, the online stores were mainly examined for three manipulative methods: hidden information, solicitations to buy or subscribe, and countdown timers that give false deadlines for the purchase of certain products.
Consumers are forced to make decisions
According to the study, 42 websites used fake countdown timers, 54 used visual design or language to prompt consumers to make certain choices – from subscriptions to more expensive products or delivery options. In addition, 70 webshops have hidden important information or made it difficult to see. This includes information about delivery costs, product composition or a cheaper alternative.
All this is against consumer protection rules, said EU Justice Commissioner Didier Reynders, calling on national authorities to take action against the practices. At the same time, the Commission is reviewing all consumer protection rules to ensure they are adapted to the digital age.
Source: Krone
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