Shoppers beware! The Competition Authority of Kenya (CAK) has issued a strong warning about the surge in e-commerce scams and online rip-offs targeting consumers.
The watchdog is warning against deceptive practices used by some online sellers and companies, from fake transactions to hidden charges.
CAK particularly emphasizes “free shipping” measures that result in unsuspecting shoppers paying an additional fee.
The agency's warning reveals tactics used by scammers and provides tips for a safe online shopping experience. “Kenya’s Competition Authority has observed an increase in complaints from consumers who purchase goods online from licensed e-commerce platforms or from suppliers who sell their products using social media networks. “I am doing so,” he said.
“A review of consumer complaints reveals that the alleged practices manipulate consumer choices by perpetuating dark commercial practices.” Dark commercial patterns complicate information or The ability to trick consumers into purchasing products online by exploiting behavioral biases by hiding, omitting, or employing manipulative design elements.
According to the CA, some dark marketing patterns can take the form of hidden costs or drip prices. Hidden subscription. Supply of defective products. Non-refundable and compensation policy. False advertising. It shows a false sense of urgency and gives the impression that the consumer may miss out on the deal. And privacy issues.
It provides an example of a complaint from a consumer who purchased books online from Text Book Center Ltd.
CAK said its website stated that with the purchase of the book, you would receive “free delivery.”
“After purchasing the item, the complainant was informed that the free shipping only applies to items delivered to a post office, so a shipping fee would be charged,'' the statement said.
“Authorities also dealt with a complaint against Jumia Kenya Ltd. where a consumer had purchased food online but had his order canceled without refund. After the intervention of the authorities, the consumer was refunded his money. ”
Another complaint against Jumbo Shop, Inc. involved a consumer who purchased a pair of shoes, but upon receiving the product, the size did not fit, and Jumbo Shop, Inc. was unwilling to rectify the situation. The authorities intervened in the matter and the money was refunded to the consumer.
Thanks to the convenience of relatively high speed internet and the availability of smartphone devices, more Kenyans are now purchasing goods and services through e-commerce platforms.
