📅 2026 Update: Changes in Bait and Switch Advertising Regulations

Since the original article was written, several important changes have occurred in advertising regulations related to bait and switch tactics. These updates aim to protect consumers from deceptive practices in various sectors, including digital spaces. The earlier article continues further down the page for more context on these issues.

🛑 New Rules Against Fake Reviews

In August 2024, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced a rule that prohibits the sale or purchase of fake reviews and testimonials. This change allows the FTC to seek civil penalties against businesses that violate this rule. This regulation is crucial as it aims to increase transparency in advertising and protect consumers from misleading information.

🎟️ Clear Pricing for Live Events

On May 12, 2025, the FTC's Rule on Unfair or Deceptive Fees took effect. This rule prohibits bait-and-switch pricing tactics. It requires businesses to disclose the total price up front, including all fees associated with live-event tickets and short-term lodging.

This change aims to prevent surprise charges that can frustrate consumers.

🏥 Actions Against Deceptive Telehealth Advertising

In December 2025, the FTC approved a final order against telehealth provider NextMed. The company was required to stop its deceptive advertising of weight-loss programs and to pay $150,000 for consumer refunds. This action highlights the FTC's commitment to holding businesses accountable for misleading advertisements.

🔐 Rising Cyber Threats

A study released by Consumer Reports in October 2026 found that 9 in 10 Americans were targeted by a cyberattack or digital scam attempt. This statistic underscores the ongoing challenge of deceptive advertising in digital spaces. Consumers must remain vigilant against these threats.

📌 Key Takeaways

  • 🚫 New rules ban fake reviews and testimonials.
  • 🎟️ Total pricing must be clear for live events.
  • 🏥 NextMed faced penalties for deceptive advertising.
  • 🔐 High rates of cyber threats highlight the need for consumer awareness.

💡 Tips for Recognizing Bait and Switch Advertising

Reviewing your specific situation with an attorney can help you understand your rights and options.

🕵️‍♂️ Watch for Price Changes

Be alert if the price changes after you express interest. Legitimate businesses usually honor their advertised prices. If a price suddenly increases, it could be a bait-and-switch tactic.

📃 Read the Fine Print

Always read the fine print in advertisements. Important details about pricing and fees are often hidden in small text. Understanding these terms can help you avoid deceptive practices.

🎟️ Verify Total Costs

When purchasing tickets for events or lodging, ensure you know the full price, including all fees. The FTC now requires businesses to disclose total prices up front, making it easier to spot misleading offers.

🤔 Research the Business

Look for reviews and complaints about the business before making a purchase. Many consumers share their experiences online. This can provide insight into whether a company engages in deceptive advertising.

📞 Report Deceptive Practices

If you encounter bait-and-switch tactics, report them to the FTC. You can help protect others from similar experiences by filing a complaint.

🏆 Free Options Ranked by User Reviews (2026)

No national paid service in this area met the review threshold. Instead, here are free government and nonprofit resources to help consumers dealing with bait and switch advertising.

🥇 1. Federal Trade Commission (FTC)

The FTC protects consumers from unfair or deceptive practices. It provides resources for reporting scams and understanding consumer rights. The FTC also enforces laws against misleading advertising, helping to ensure fair practices.

🥈 2. Consumer Federation of America

This nonprofit organization advocates for consumer rights and protections. It provides information on various consumer issues, including advertising scams. They work to hold companies accountable and educate consumers.

🥉 3. Better Business Bureau (BBB)

The BBB helps consumers find trustworthy businesses and resolve disputes. It offers a platform for reporting scams and checking a company's reputation. Consumers can use this resource to research businesses before making purchases.

4️⃣ Consumer Reports

Consumer Reports provides unbiased reviews of products and services. They also publish studies on consumer issues, including deceptive advertising practices. This organization aims to help consumers make informed choices.

🔎 What to Check Before Paying for Help

  • 🔍 Verify any claims made by the business.
  • 📝 Look for reviews and complaints about services.
  • 📞 Ensure the organization is reputable.
  • 💰 Check for hidden fees before paying.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What is bait and switch advertising?

Bait and switch advertising is a deceptive tactic where a business advertises a product at a low price to attract customers but then tries to sell them a different, often more expensive product.

⚠️ How can I report bait and switch advertising?

You can report bait and switch advertising to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). They provide a platform for consumers to file complaints against businesses engaging in deceptive practices.

🎟️ Are there laws against bait and switch advertising?

Yes, laws prohibit bait and switch advertising. The FTC enforces these laws to protect consumers from misleading advertising practices.

💵 What penalties do companies face for bait and switch tactics?

Companies found guilty of bait and switch tactics can face civil penalties from the FTC. They may also be required to provide refunds to affected consumers.

📅 How can I stay informed about advertising scams?

Staying informed can be done by following consumer protection organizations like the FTC and Consumer Reports. They provide updates on current scams and tips for consumers.

🔒 What should I do if I fall victim to a scam?

If you fall victim to a scam, report it to the FTC and your local consumer protection agency. You may also want to contact your bank or credit card company for further assistance.

⚖️ Recent Cases Related to Bait and Switch Advertising

Recent court rulings have focused on deceptive advertising practices, including bait and switch tactics. These cases highlight the importance of consumer protection in advertising.

For more recent rulings, please check more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update





Bait and switch advertising is a violation of consumer laws. It is a type of fraudulent business practice where one party, such as a manufacturer or business, will offer the "bait". This could be a product that is advertised at a very low cost and is designed to lure in a customer. Once the customer is attracted, the manufacturer will pull the "switch". The proposed product will no longer be available at the advertised price, but instead it will be offered at a much higher price or an altogether different product will be offered.

The purpose of the bait and switch is to convince the consumer to pay much more money than was originally planned. The idea is that the seller has already drawn the customer in with the bait and will now be free to switch the product without losing the customer.

Consumer laws will allow an aggrieved party to sue for damages if they are the victim of a bait and switch. A competing business may also be able to take action in court against individuals who practice the bait and switch. Consumer laws will hold this fraudulent business liable for false advertising, or possibly for trademark infringement. 

Bait And Switch Advertising

If the original business is losing profits due to this fraudulent practice, then it may have grounds to sue. However, consumer laws will only allow for another business to take action if the accused business is actually engaging in a bait and switch practice. If the business is legitimately able to offer the product at a considerably lower price, then they will not be liable for any damages to competing businesses.

The accused party may be able to avoid liability if the business can prove that there was language within the advertisement that did not guarantee it to the consumer. For example, if the advertisement makes it clear that this offer is only available for a short time, then the business will most likely not be held liable for damages.

Consumer laws consider the bait and switch to be fraudulent because the manufacturer is advertising a product that it does not actually intend to sell at that price or quality. If consumers falls victim to the bait and switch, they will not receive the actual product that they desired.

They will most likely receive a higher priced product. Consumer laws mandate that no advertisement should propose to sell an item that it does not actually intend to distribute at the advertised price or quality.