Guides to Fake Sales & Deceptive Pricing

Plain-language explainers on phantom markdowns, false "original" prices, your consumer rights, and what to do if a "sale" fooled you.

June 30, 2026 · 4 min read

How to Tell If a “Sale” Is a Fake Discount (Phantom Markdowns)

Five clear signs that a “discount” may be a phantom markdown — and how to check before you buy.

June 30, 2026 · 4 min read

The inflated “original” price next to a “sale” price has a name — and a long history. Here's how it works.

June 30, 2026 · 4 min read

Four practical, no-cost steps to take if a fake “sale” price influenced your purchase.

June 30, 2026 · 5 min read

A plain-language overview of how the FTC and state laws treat misleading “original” and “compare at” prices.

July 16, 2026 · 4 min read

Holiday “doorbusters” aren't always the deals they appear to be. How to spot pre-inflated prices and event-only products.

July 16, 2026 · 4 min read

That “compare at” number on the outlet tag may not be a price anyone ever paid. What outlet pricing labels really mean.

July 16, 2026 · 4 min read

The one-minute habit that defeats phantom markdowns: check what the item actually sold for before you trust the discount.

July 16, 2026 · 4 min read

MSRP is a suggestion, not a price anyone necessarily pays. Why “off list price” savings claims deserve a second look.

If you bought an item advertised at a discount from a "regular" price you believe was inflated, we want to hear from you.