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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Business
Sarah Butler

Fake reviews and hidden online charges to be banned under new rules

A person using a laptop as they hold a bank card.
Clear labelling and the inclusion of mandatory fees at the start of the shopping process are part of the government’s proposals. Photograph: Tim Goode/PA

Fake reviews and unavoidable hidden online charges – which cost consumers £2.2bn a year – are to be banned under new laws to force businesses to be more clear with shoppers.

Under the new rules, which will become law as part of the digital markets, competition and consumers bill currently progressing through parliament, mandatory fees must be included in the headline price or at the start of the shopping process, including booking fees for cinema and train tickets.

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