10 Biggest Rip-offs That Are Robbing You Blind

Marketing often utilizes tactics that persuade consumers to purchase products and services at premium prices, which can ultimately lead to disappointment as they fail to meet expectations.

A Redditor asked on a popular forum, what do you think is the biggest ripoff that people continuously buy? and here are top 10 things that are total rip-offs

1. The Diet Gimmicks

Many people fall for weight loss scams in their quest for quick results. These gimmicks often must deliver the promised results, from diet pills to easy exercise machines.

“Diet gimmicks. When people are desperate to lose weight, they will go to great lengths with herbs, diet pills, and “easy” exercise machines.” said one.

“Yea, it’s because they are too lazy to get up and do something about it. They want a quick fix so that they will spend dollars.” another said.

2. Overpriced Greetings

Hallmark gift cards may seem convenient, but the cost of a simple folded card with recycled artwork and jokes may be better. Real flowers could be a better choice.

“Hallmark gift cards. $5 for a folded sheet of cardboard, a recycled joke, and recycled artwork or pictures of flowers. It’s easier to buy somebody actual flowers.” said one.

“I never understood this custom. I’ve dated people who gave me a random card or stuffed animal. I hate that I had to hang onto it because throwing it away would be inconsiderate.” another added.

3. Payday Loans

Payday loans are short-term, high-interest loans that target people needing cash. The high-interest rates and fees can trap borrowers in a cycle of debt.

“The interest rates they charge should be illegal.” a user said. “As a customer service advisor working for a bank, these things are the bane of my life.” another shared.

4. Diamonds

Diamonds are marketed as a symbol of love and luxury, but the high prices are often the result of a controlled supply rather than a rarity. The industry has a history of unethical practices.

“Biggest ripoff ever. Completely engineered market and value.” said one. “Outside of industrial usage, diamonds are pretty worthless. People just like pretty things, I guess.” another said.

“manufactured diamonds have the same index of refraction and dispersion (gives it the sparkle and color) and cost a fraction of what a mined diamond does. It takes specialized equipment to tell them apart.” a user said.

5. Printer Ink

Printer ink is notorious for being expensive and running out quickly, even if you only want to print in black and white. 

“Printer ink. Ugh, just thinking about it annoys me. Oh, and ‘please replace the pink if you want to print. Yes, yes, even if you want only to print b&w. Oh, and hey, are you starting up the printer? Let me try out all the inks to ensure enough.” said one.

“As of this year, printer ink is officially the most expensive consumer liquid per ounce. Insane combined with the amount that things like “expiration dates” and uneven ink levels make you waste.” another shared.

6. Bottled Water

Bottled water is often sold at a high price, despite being widely available and usually similar to tap water. The production and disposal of plastic bottles also harm the environment.

“As someone once pointed out, bottled water is often more expensive than gasoline.” said one.

“If you look on Nestle bottles, it says “Source: Public Water Supply, Dallas, TX.” So you’re buying tap water from Dallas.” another said.

7. Cheap Products In General

Buying low-quality products may seem like a way to save money, but constantly replacing them can cost more in the long run. Investing in quality goods can save money over time.

“Buying junky products “to save money.” You have to replace them all the time, which wastes money. Instead, buy something good quality and have it last your whole life. It also often works a lot better. In the long run, you save money by getting a quality product.” a user said.

“Backing up the phrase: You buy cheap, you buy twice.” another added.

8. Cable Television

“You can watch most TV for free online” said one.

“If it weren’t for the fact that my husband works for the local cable company and gets phone, tv, and internet for next to nothing, we would have gotten rid of our cable ages ago.” another shared.

9. Movie Theatre Popcorn

Movie theater popcorn is often sold at a high price, with markups of over 1000%. The experience often justifies the cost, but alternatives like bringing your snacks can save money.

“This is the biggest ripoff that I continue to buy still.” said one. “I completely agree that movie theater popcorn is ridiculously overpriced. It’s hard to resist the smell, but the cost is hard to justify.” another added.

10. Smaller Packaged Products

“I work in a grocery store. 90% of everything in a grocery store. Oh, the ways companies will come up with to repackage smaller portions in fancier containers to charge people extra for the ‘convenience,’ said one.

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This article was originally published on Mrs. Daaku Studio.