Bait-and-switch advertising
Bait-and-switch advertising, also known as bait advertising, is a deceptive marketing tactic where a customer is lured in by an attractive offer only to be persuaded to purchase a more expensive product or service. This practice is considered unethical and in some cases illegal.
One common example of bait-and-switch advertising is when a retailer advertises a product at a very low price to attract customers into their store. However, when the customer arrives, they are informed that the advertised product is out of stock or of poor quality, and are instead pressured to buy a more expensive alternative.
Another example is when a service provider offers a special deal or discount to entice customers to sign up, but then adds hidden fees or charges once the customer has committed.
It is important for consumers to be aware of bait-and-switch tactics and to thoroughly research offers before making a purchase. If you encounter a bait-and-switch scheme, it is recommended to report it to the appropriate authorities.
- Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true
- Read the fine print before making a purchase
- Report any suspicious advertising practices to consumer protection agencies
For more information on bait-and-switch advertising, you can visit the Wikipedia page.