3 6 Ke·2025-08-26 03:04Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the ongoing issue of deceptive marketing practices by telecom operators in China, where consumers are misled into upgrading their service plans under the guise of "free upgrades," resulting in increased monthly charges [1][3][7]. Group 1: Telecom Operators' Response - The three major telecom operators in China have announced a unified approach to combat misleading marketing calls by using official numbers for promotions, aiming to help consumers identify legitimate marketing channels [1][2]. - Despite the operators' statements, complaints related to telecom service plans continue to rise, with over 65,000 complaints recorded on consumer platforms regarding issues with service charges and plan changes [2]. Group 2: Nature of Deceptive Practices - Consumers often receive calls claiming to offer lower-cost plans, but these calls frequently result in higher charges due to hidden fees or changes in service plans that are not clearly communicated [3][4]. - A common tactic involves presenting a plan that appears cheaper but actually increases the total monthly cost when additional services are included, effectively manipulating consumer perceptions [3][4]. Group 3: Structure of Marketing Practices - The telecom industry is structured into three main components: the company headquarters, retail stores, and third-party channel partners, with the latter often responsible for aggressive marketing tactics [4][5]. - External call agents, who are under pressure to meet sales targets, typically lack comprehensive knowledge of the plans they are selling, focusing solely on pushing sales rather than providing accurate information [5][6]. Group 4: Consumer Experience and Challenges - Consumers face significant challenges in canceling or downgrading plans, as the process is often complicated and time-consuming, leading to frustration and increased costs [3][6]. - The system is designed in such a way that external agents can only increase service plans, while retail staff have limited authority to reduce plans, creating a barrier for consumers seeking to lower their expenses [6][7]. Group 5: Implications for the Industry - The article suggests that the telecom operators are aware of these deceptive practices but continue to allow them to persist, effectively placing the burden of accountability on consumers [7][8]. - The ongoing issue of unsolicited marketing calls indicates that these practices are likely to continue, as the operators gamble on consumers' ability to recognize and report such tactics [8].