bait-and-switch

Bait-and-switch is a deceptive marketing tactic where a seller advertises a product or service at a low price to attract customers (the "bait"), but when the customer shows interest, the seller claims the original item is unavailable and offers a different, usually more expensive product (the "switch"). This practice aims to lure customers into making a purchase they might not have otherwise considered, often leading to disappointment or financial loss. It's considered unfair and is illegal in many jurisdictions because it misleads consumers and undermines fair competition.