The practice of excessively raising prices of goods or services during periods of high demand, often following a crisis or emergency, is a significant concern within the online marketplace. Sellers on the platform sometimes inflate prices to levels far exceeding fair market value, capitalizing on consumers’ urgent needs and limited purchasing options. As an illustration, essential items like hand sanitizer or face masks may experience exponential price increases during a pandemic, exploiting public anxiety and scarcity.
Such opportunistic pricing strategies erode consumer trust and undermine the integrity of the digital marketplace. Historically, laws and regulations have sought to prevent these practices to protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation. Maintaining a level playing field and ensuring access to reasonably priced goods, especially during emergencies, are crucial benefits of addressing excessive price increases. The ethical implications and reputational damage associated with these practices further underscore the importance of vigilance and appropriate intervention.
