False countdowns, hidden information and the urge to buy: online shops use these methods again and again to manipulate customers. A check by the EU Commission shows that almost 40 percent of websites use prohibited practices.
According to the EU Commission, many online shops try to manipulate consumers with prohibited means and, for example, urge them to make purchasing decisions. A check by the Brussels authorities and the responsible authorities of 25 European countries revealed that 148 of the 399 websites examined used at least one manipulative tactic, the EU Commission announced.
Retailers, for example in the textile or electrical sectors, were checked last year. Accordingly, the online shops were examined for three manipulative methods in particular: hidden information, urging to buy or subscribe, and countdown timers that give false deadlines for the purchase of certain products.
According to the research, 42 websites used fake countdown timers, 54 used visual design or language to urge consumers to make certain choices – from subscriptions to more expensive products or delivery options. In addition, 70 online shops have hidden important information or made it difficult to see. This included information on delivery costs, product composition or a cheaper alternative.
“The inspection revealed that almost 40 percent of online shopping sites use manipulative practices,” said EU Justice Commissioner Didier Reynders. “This behavior is clearly wrong and violates consumer protection rules.” He called on the national authorities to take action against the practices. There are already binding instruments for this today. In parallel, the Commission is reviewing all consumer protection rules to ensure they are adapted to the digital age.
