Fraudulent activity

Fraudulent actions are actions taken by a website owner to intentionally mislead users by giving them false or distorted information.

Inaccurate information can cause users to lose money or misunderstand:

  • Sales terms.
  • Product quality and characteristics.
  • Expected results from using a product or service.

To detect fraudulent actions, the algorithms analyze a whole range of factors, including user reports.

Fraudulent markers

Marker

Description

A site or business takes payment but doesn't deliver the goods or services, or the quality is very poor.

Algorithms monitor data to spot signs of fraud or suspicious conduct against users.

User feedback is factored in too, but alongside other data, since negative reviews alone don’t always indicate fraud. For example, the following is not considered a violation:

  • An item that was ordered is out of stock, the user cancels the order and gets a refund.
  • An item is damaged but is covered under warranty.
  • Occasional delivery delays.

The algorithms also consider the fact that user reviews can be manipulated, so such cases don't affect their decision.

A site or business intentionally provides false information about the terms of purchase or service, then later changes these terms to be less favorable for the user.

Examples of fraudulent actions:

  • A site is selling tickets before the official start of sales. In reality, however, it just takes a prepayment and tricks people into thinking they got their ticket before the sales actually started.
  • A user brings their phone in for free diagnostics to find out how much it would cost to repair. Unbeknownst to the user, if they decline repair, the diagnostics then become paid.
  • A site changes the terms of purchase to less favorable ones for the user after they've already placed an order. For example, by changing the total cost of the order by adding hidden fees.

Examples of NOT fraudulent actions:

  • A site acts as an intermediary and clearly communicates its role to the user, including possible risks and limitations.
  • During promotional events like Black Friday, prices can go down. The terms of these promotions clearly state the duration of the event and the list of products that are eligible for a discount. After placing an order, the discount is applied automatically if the item and order date meet the terms of the promotion.

How to fix or prevent the violation

Make sure that:

  • The information on the site about products, services, and purchase terms is up to date and complete.
  • Paid goods and services are are delivered responsibly and to a good standard.
  • All obligations to customers are fulfilled, and the terms of the transaction don't change once they make a payment.
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