The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has taken action against Sitejabber, a review website, for engaging in deceptive practices. The company has been accused of posting fake reviews on its platform, misleading consumers and unfairly promoting certain businesses. But what led to this crackdown, and what does it mean for online shoppers?
According to the FTC, Sitejabber allowed businesses to purchase fake reviews, which were then posted on the site as if they were written by real customers. This practice, known as 'astroturfing,' is a clear violation of the FTC's guidelines on deceptive advertising. The agency alleges that Sitejabber's actions were designed to deceive consumers into thinking that certain businesses had more positive reviews than they actually did.
According to the FTC, Sitejabber allowed businesses to purchase fake reviews, which were then posted on the site as if they were written by real customers. This practice, known as 'astroturfing,' is a clear violation of the FTC's guidelines on deceptive advertising. The agency alleges that Sitejabber's actions were designed to deceive consumers into thinking that certain businesses had more positive reviews than they actually did.
But Sitejabber isn't the only company to engage in fake review practices. In fact, a study by the Harvard Business Review found that up to 20% of online reviews may be fake. This has serious implications for consumers, who rely on online reviews to make informed purchasing decisions. So, how can you spot a fake review? Look for red flags like overly positive language, repetitive phrases, and reviews that seem to be posted in a short period of time.
But Sitejabber isn't the only company to engage in fake review practices. In fact, a study by the Harvard Business Review found that up to 20% of online reviews may be fake. This has serious implications for consumers, who rely on online reviews to make informed purchasing decisions. So, how can you spot a fake review? Look for red flags like overly positive language, repetitive phrases, and reviews that seem to be posted in a short period of time.
