Just Eat and Autotrader among firms investigated in fake reviews probe

The UK's Competition and Markets Authority is investigating five firms, including food delivery platform Just Eat and car marketplace Autotrader, over allegations of misleading online reviews. The watchdog is examining whether these companies posted fake or manipulated customer reviews to inflate their ratings and deceive consumers. Such practices could violate consumer protection laws and undermine trust in online rating systems that shoppers rely on to make purchasing decisions. The investigation reflects broader regulatory concern across Europe and North America about fake reviews distorting e-commerce markets. The CMA's findings could result in enforcement action, fines, or requirements that companies strengthen their review moderation systems.