UK Government bans hidden fees and fake reviews in new laws

Consumers spend £2.2 billion on hidden fees every year, according to the Department for Business and Trade.

But these new laws, introduced on Sunday, are set to put a stop to that.

Fake reviews and ‘unavoidable’ hidden fees that cost consumers £2.2bn every year are now banned.

We have clamped down on unfair trading practices to protect consumers like you and your family. 👇 pic.twitter.com/NSKBoYGssu

— Tris Osborne MP (@TrisOsborneMP) April 6, 2025

Hidden fees banned under new laws

Under the new laws all mandatory fees must now be included in the headline price which will give Brits more "control over their cash" and help save them money.

These mandatory fees include the likes of:

• Admin fees
• Ticket booking fees

However, optional fees such as airline seats and baggage upgrades for flights are not covered by the new laws.

All mandatory fees must now be included in the headline price. (Image: PA) The UK Government said: "The ban aims to bring to an end the shock that online shoppers get when they reach the end of their shopping experience only to find a raft of extra fees lumped on top. 

"So, for shoppers buying train tickets – they won’t be stung by a hidden booking fee at the end of the checkout. 

"When buying a takeaway, the delivery and admin fees must be clear at the start of the process.

"The same will apply to all online shopping experiences from concert tickets to trips to the cinema."

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It added: "Not only will it create greater transparency, but it will make it far easier for consumers to confidently compare products and services to make sure they are getting the best bang for their buck."

Fake reviews also banned

Meanwhile, the new laws also ban "outlandish" fake reviews "so customers know what they are buying when they shop online".

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Reviews were found to be used by 90% of consumers and contributed to the £217 billion spent in online retail markets in 2023, the UK Government said, outlining the importance of the new ban.

Justin Madders, minister for competition and markets, said: “From today consumers can confidently make purchases knowing they are protected against fake reviews and dripped pricing.

“These changes will give consumers more power and control over their hard-earned cash, as well as help to establish a level playing field by deterring bad actors that undercut compliant businesses.”