What fraudulent practice involves advertising a product that is unavailable and leading customers to a more expensive item?

Bait and switch is a fraudulent practice where a business advertises a product that is either not available or is intentionally misrepresented to lure customers in. Once customers arrive, they are often guided toward purchasing a more expensive item than originally advertised. This tactic is designed to entice consumers with seemingly great deals that are ultimately unavailable, with the goal of upselling them to a higher-priced alternative.

Understanding this concept is crucial in marketing ethics, as it highlights how consumer trust can be undermined by deceptive practices. It differentiates itself from related practices because, unlike simple false advertising, bait and switch specifically involves the manipulation of customer behavior through the promise of an enticing offer that cannot be fulfilled.