Tick box trap to be banned
Some major UK retailers will have to change their ways when a move to ban web users being tricked by 'cost traps' is made into law by the EU.
The new law means web traders have to disclose the total cost of a product or service and it will no longer be permitted to have 'pre ticked' click boxes on websites - users will need to accept any extras or inclusions.
Research by Sitemorse shows several UK retailers have more than 100 pre-ticked boxes on their sites, and found 70 companies, including some big retail names, that feature at least one.
One high street fashion brand has 125 pre-checked boxes, and an internationally-known beauty products chain 103.
Special Retail Bulletin offer!Any reader, either part of the Sitemorse Index or not – can receive, at no charge, a review of the top 125 pages of their website which will contain details of which boxes are 'pre-ticked' and should consider changing. Click here to register your interest.
The European Commission cited the example of buying airline tickets online, when customers may have needed to actively decline optional extras such as travel insurance.
The new legislation – expected to be adopted by EU countries by the end of 2013 - follows the recent changes to law on website 'cookies' requiring businesses to ensure users consent to receive cookies served through their website, having first provided them with clear disclosures about the purpose and use of those cookies.
Sitemorse can deliver a solution to advise and alert its subscribers of any instances where tick boxes are offered 'pre-ticked' on their websites within the next three weeks - allowing key sectors like retail time to ensure their house is fully in order before the Christmas sales push.
