“先买后付”的消费新模式快速兴起，有怎样运行模式？需提示哪些潜在风险？

Core Viewpoint - The "Buy Now, Pay Later" (BNPL) payment model has gained popularity, providing convenience to consumers but also leading to potential risks and disputes regarding payment amounts and terms [1][5]. Group 1: Consumer Complaints and Issues - Consumers have reported unexpected changes in their default payment methods to "Buy Now, Pay Later," leading to confusion over actual charges and additional fees [1][2]. - A specific case involved a consumer who experienced discrepancies between the advertised price and the final amount charged, resulting in a dispute with both the merchant and the platform [2][3]. - Another consumer found that using BNPL for travel bookings resulted in unexpected loan-like charges, including interest and late fees, rather than direct deductions from their account [3][4]. Group 2: Impact on Consumer Behavior - The BNPL model has been noted to increase consumer spending, with some merchants reporting over a 30% increase in sales after adopting this payment option [3][5]. - However, it has also led to irrational spending behaviors, as consumers may lose track of their total expenditures, leading to financial strain when payments are deducted unexpectedly [3][6]. Group 3: Regulatory and Consumer Rights Concerns - Experts have highlighted the need for better regulation of the BNPL model to ensure consumer rights are protected, emphasizing the importance of clear communication regarding payment terms and potential risks [5][6]. - There is a call for platforms to provide significant notifications about the implications of using BNPL, including the possibility of accruing interest and fees, to enhance consumer awareness and choice [6][7]. - The balance between promoting consumer spending and ensuring adequate regulatory oversight is crucial to mitigate risks associated with this payment model [7].