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Online reviews: Consumers often rely on stars - but are they real?
According to a report from www.br.de, the Federal Association of Consumer Organizations (vzbv) examined whether online portals adhere to the new regulations regarding star ratings that result from the law against unfair competition. Since May 28, 2022, the portals must credibly show that the reviews come from real consumers who actually bought the product or service. The results of the investigation were sobering: 27 of the 30 portals examined had deficiencies in the distribution of information. According to Sabrina Wagner, consultant in the digital market observation team at vzbv, this inadequate implementation of the legal requirements is an indication that companies...
Online reviews: Consumers often rely on stars - but are they real?
According to a report from www.br.de, the Federal Association of Consumer Organizations (vzbv) examined whether online portals adhere to the new regulations regarding star ratings that result from the law against unfair competition. Since May 28, 2022, the portals must credibly show that the reviews come from real consumers who actually bought the product or service. The results of the investigation were sobering: 27 of the 30 portals examined had deficiencies in the distribution of information.
According to Sabrina Wagner, consultant in the digital market observation team at vzbv, this inadequate implementation of the legal requirements is an indication that companies are little interested in implementing new requirements for the benefit of consumers. Consumer advocates are already in the process of taking legal action against companies that have been warned. If there is no relent, they will also go to court.
The impact of this poor implementation of star ratings can be significant for both the market and consumers. Consumers often rely on star ratings from others to make an informed purchasing decision. However, if manipulated or fake reviews are distributed, this can lead to bad purchases and disappointment. As a result, trust, customer satisfaction and ultimately the company's sales can suffer.
When it comes to the market, companies that offer honest and reliable star ratings can gain a competitive advantage. Consumers are more likely to choose products or services that have received positive and trustworthy reviews. However, companies that violate legal requirements and use fake reviews risk their reputation and face legal consequences.
It is therefore crucial that online portals fulfill their responsibility and ensure that star ratings are authentic. Consumers should not rely exclusively on reviews on the Internet that they have not written themselves, but rather examine them critically and obtain further information if necessary.
Source: According to a report from www.br.de
Read the source article at www.br.de