Bait advertising is best described as:

• A. Advertising Honestly
• B. Providing Transparent Pricing
• C. Luring Customers with the Intention of Selling Them a Different Product
• D. Offering Free Returns

Answer: (C)

Bait advertising relies on drawing customers in with an attractive offer that the business has no real intention of selling at that price or in that quantity. The tactic is to lure shoppers into the store or online and then switch them to a different product, typically more expensive or less favorable. This deceptive approach misleads consumers and can violate consumer protection laws, risking legal consequences and damage to trust and reputation. The other described practices—advertising honestly, providing transparent pricing, and offering free returns—are straightforward, fair, and honor the terms of what’s advertised, not meant to mislead. For example, advertising a low-priced item that’s actually out of stock and steering buyers to a higher-priced alternative illustrates bait advertising in action.