Amazon, the world’s largest online commerce platform, has been hit with a class-action lawsuit for alleged violations of the US Consumer Protection Act. Plaintiffs claim that online store Amazon deliberately withheld from users the opportunity to purchase products at lower prices. This was reported by Agency Reuters.
Amazon’s Buy Box recommendation algorithm often disguises cheap shopping options with fast delivery, according to a complaint filed in federal court in Seattle. The statement also notes that marketplace users accept the Buy Box offer in 98% of cases, mistakenly believing that the platform has found the most profitable options for them.
“The Buy Box algorithm prioritizes Amazon’s profits over customers’ well-being by making choices for consumers,” the document states.
In this way, the marketplace generates additional revenue for third-party sellers participating in the Fulfillment By Amazon program, the complaint states. Companies participating in this program pay the marketplace fees for storing, packaging, delivering and returning orders.
The lawsuit seeks damages for alleged infringement by Amazon since 2016, according to plaintiffs’ attorney Steve Berman. It is not stated what amount we are talking about.
Previously Moscow court fine Because Amazon refuses to remove information banned in Russia.