Bait And Switch Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Bait And Switch, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Bait And Switch?

(n) Bait And Switch is the trade practice by which attractive sale offers, which are non-existent, were made with an intention to sought customers or traffic towards other products or activities. Eg. Offering discount sale after increasing the price, 2. Influencing customers to switch their buy when they visit the shop to buy bargain sales.

History and Meaning of Bait And Switch

Bait and switch is a sales technique that has been around for many years. The basic idea is to lure customers into a store with an attractive offer or product, only to try and sell them something else when they get there. The practice is considered unethical and has been illegal in many countries since the mid-twentieth century.

The term "bait and switch" emerged from the idea of using bait (an attractive offer) to lure customers in and then switching it for something else (usually a higher-priced product). The technique can be used in a variety of sales settings, from physical stores to online marketplaces.

Examples of Bait And Switch

  1. A store advertises a sale on a popular electronic device, but when customers arrive, they find that the item is out of stock or only available in a more expensive configuration.

  2. An online retailer offers a discount on a particular item, but when customers click through to the product page, they find that the discount only applies to a different product or bundle.

  3. A car dealership advertises a great deal on a specific car, but when customers arrive, they are told that the car has been sold. They are then pressured into buying a more expensive model.

Legal Terms Similar to Bait And Switch

  1. Deceptive marketing: Using false, misleading, or ambiguous information to promote a product or service.

  2. Unfair trade practices: Actions that place competitors at a disadvantage or harm consumers, such as false advertising or price fixing.

  3. Fraud: Intentionally deceiving someone for personal gain or to cause harm.