The top product results in Google's Shopping service frequently feature products with higher prices than those listed on competing online shopping services, according to a complaint filed by longtime Google critic Consumer Watchdog.
But Google said the top search results in its Shopping service are clearly labeled as sponsored by the retailers.
Consumer Watchdog, in the complaint filed Wednesday with the U.S. Federal Trade Commission, accuses Google of engaging in unfair and deceptive business practices.
"Most people likely expect [the Shopping results] to be Google's suggestions for best prices," the group said in its letter to the FTC. "However, if a person clicks on a pictured item, it takes them directly to the seller's website, although there is nothing to indicate it's an ad and that the seller pays Google and bids to be featured in Google Shopping."
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