Amazon Faces Class Action Lawsuit Over Alleged Price Manipulation
The lawsuit accuses Amazon of steering consumers to higher-priced items through its Buy Box algorithm, potentially violating consumer protection laws.
- A class action lawsuit filed in Seattle alleges Amazon's Buy Box algorithm favors higher-priced items, misleading consumers.
- The lawsuit claims Amazon's practices violate a Washington state law against deceptive trade practices, seeking damages since 2016.
- Plaintiffs argue Amazon's algorithm benefits third-party sellers in its Fulfillment By Amazon program at consumers' expense.
- Consumers are said to choose Amazon's Buy Box selections nearly 98% of the time, often under the false belief of getting the best prices.
- The case highlights concerns over Amazon's influence on shopping choices and the potential for consumer harm.