What Are My Rights Regarding Misleading Product Reviews And Ratings?

Consumers have specific rights regarding misleading product reviews and ratings, which are important for making informed purchasing decisions.

Rights and Steps to Take

1. Truth in Advertising: Consumers are protected against misleading advertising practices, including false reviews. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requires that all endorsements and reviews be truthful and not misleading.
2. Right to Accurate Information: Consumers have the right to receive accurate information about products. Misleading reviews can violate consumer protection laws.
3. Document Evidence: If you suspect a review or rating is misleading, document your findings. This can include screenshots of the review, product information, and any discrepancies.
4. Contact the Retailer or Platform: Report the misleading review to the retailer or platform hosting it. Many companies have policies in place to address false reviews and may take action against them.
5. Report to the FTC: If you believe the misleading reviews violate consumer protection laws, you can file a complaint with the FTC. They investigate deceptive practices and can take action against violators.
6. Leave Your Own Review: If you've had a negative experience due to misleading reviews, consider sharing your honest review to inform other consumers. This can help counteract the misleading information.
7. Legal Action: In cases where misleading reviews have caused significant harm or losses, you may consider consulting a lawyer to explore potential legal action against the entity responsible for the deceptive reviews.

Example

If a consumer buys a skincare product based on overwhelmingly positive reviews but finds the product ineffective and the reviews appear to be fabricated:

• They should document the misleading reviews and compare them with their experience.
• The consumer can report the reviews to the platform where they were posted and provide feedback on their experience.
• If necessary, they can file a complaint with the FTC if they believe the reviews are part of a deceptive marketing strategy.

By understanding their rights and the steps to take, consumers can protect themselves from misleading product reviews and ratings.