Firm Pays $300,000 for Web 'Astroturfing'

Firm Pays $300,000 for Web 'Astroturfing'

A cosmetic surgery firm, Lifestyle Lift,  was ordered to pay $300,000 (£183,000) for posting online reviews from unknown individuals about its services. 
 

The company posted rave reviews on its websites and message boards, praising its product lines. It has also tried removing negative reviews from its sites. 

 

According to New York attorney general Andrew Cuomo, Lifestyle duped its customers through insidious commercial practices, false promotion, and illicit conduct. 

 

"This company's attempt to generate business by duping consumers was cynical, manipulative and illegal. My office has and will continue to be at the forefront in protecting consumers against emerging fraud and deception, including 'astroturfing', on the internet," Cuomo said.

 

Lifestyle is also alleged of establishing fake web sites that displays bogus reviews about the firm. It is reported to have hired staff to post reviews applauding its products and services in forum boards.