UOKiK launched an investigation into OLX, 1 of the leading advertising platforms, accusing her of deficiency of transparency in the evaluation and opinion system. It is suspected that the assessments seen under the notices may propose a value higher than that actually awarded by the buyers.
There were signals from consumers who reported irregularities in the evaluation system. On the basis of these signals, the president of the UOKiK initiated an investigation against the OLX Group and filed 2 charges against it. Firstly, there are doubts about persons entitled to print opinions on the olx.pl platform, referred to as "buyers".
This is not the end of OLX problems
It appears that the definition of ‘buyer’ on the platform OLX is expanded and includes not only actual buyers but besides persons who can only communicate with the seller. UOKiK notes that the anticipation of issuing an opinion is not conditional on making a purchase, although these opinions are presented as assessments from the ‘buyer’. specified presentation may mislead users as to the origin and authenticity of the reviews on purchases.
UOKiK besides criticises the way the evaluation strategy operates. The algorithm utilized by OLX assigns more importance to affirmative than negative ratings and further classifies as affirmative assessments those below the centre of the rating scale. In addition, the categories of ratings available to users to measure transactional experience ("Bad", "Good", "Excellent") are not consistent with the categories presented later in the service ("I do not recommend", "Nice", "Good", "Great").
UOKiK underlines that in order to delegate the seller's rating to a peculiar category, the OLX platform performs a number of calculations that users are not informed about. This leads to a situation where the ratings displayed under the notices may propose a value higher than that actually given by those who have spoken as ‘buyers’ in their opinions.
Was OLX misleading consumers? The platform is facing quite a few punishment...
UOKiK criticises OLX for deficiency of transparency in the evaluation system. The consumer does not have access to detailed information on the components of the evaluation of the advertiser or the comments added erstwhile issuing partial assessments. These comments are hidden from users and only available to the seller. The absence of this transparency may mislead consumers as to actual assessments, which, according to the UOKiK, undermines the integrity of the purchasing process. If the allegations are confirmed, the OLX.pl Group may be fined up to 10% of its turnover.
Ignacy Michałowski
OSINT investigator with experience in global journalism projects. It has been publishing materials for over 20 years for the largest releases. In social activities he engaged in various projects and initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life of people, especially those of mediocre communities. He was besides active in the fight for human rights. Contact: kontakt@legaartis.pl
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OLX was misleading?! The site could get quite a few punishment. UOKiK initiated proceedings:
