Artificial intelligence is changing how consumers shop online, and the Better Business Bureau is urging people to take extra steps to verify businesses before m
Artificial intelligence is changing how consumers shop online, and the Better Business Bureau is urging people to take extra steps to verify businesses before making purchases or hiring services.
More than half of shoppers now rely on AI-generated search summaries instead of traditional search results or recommendations from friends when researching businesses, according to the BBB. Cameron Nakashima of the Better Business Bureau said consumers should understand that a business appearing at the top of an AI search result is not automatically the most trustworthy option.
Businesses that appear prominently in AI searches often have strong websites, active online profiles, customer reviews, directory listings and effective search engine optimization strategies. Some businesses may also use paid advertising, factors AI systems may interpret as “trust signals. ” However, Nakashima said consumers should not assume businesses that do not appear in AI-generated results are untrustworthy.
“Some great local businesses simply have a smaller online footprint or do not focus heavily on digital marketing,” Nakashima said. At the same time, he warned that scammers can quickly create fake websites designed to steal money and personal information, making careful research increasingly important. The BBB recommends consumers use AI search results as a starting point rather than a final answer when evaluating businesses.
Consumers should look for signs of legitimacy, including professional websites, clear contact information, proper licensing, verified customer reviews and evidence that businesses respond professionally to complaints. The BBB also encourages consumers to check whether a business is BBB Accredited and to review company profiles and ratings on BBB.org.
“AI can help you find businesses quickly, but taking a few extra minutes to verify trust can help protect your money, your information and your peace of mind,” Nakashima said. Bothell High students plan walkout after board vote to end SRO contract in 2026-27 Students at Bothell High School said they don't feel like their voices were heard in a recent vote by the Northshore School Board to eliminate the school's longAn Army vehicle towing another vehicle lost control Saturday on westbound Interstate 90 near Snoqualmie Pass, causing one of the vehicles to roll over, aThe University of Washington community continues to mourn the loss of 19-year-old student Juniper Blessing, who was killed earlier this week.
Driver arrested, dogs missing after Arlington road rage crash, alleged hammer threat A three-vehicle collision tied to a suspected road-rage incident Friday evening on the 236th Street Northeast on-ramp to northbound Interstate 5 near Arli
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Pope Leo XIV set to release first encyclical focused on artificial intelligence and the churchPope Leo XIV is expected to sign his first encyclical focusing on the role of artificial intelligence in the church and the lives of the faithful.
Read more »
Pope creates artificial intelligence study group as Vatican prepares to release his first encyclicalPope Leo XIV has created a study group on artificial intelligence in a sign of his ongoing concern about the technology.
Read more »
The Existential Ergonomics of Artificial IntelligenceThe enemy of deep thought isn't distraction. It's relief.
Read more »
Pope creates group to study artificial intelligence as Vatican prepares to release his first encyclicalPope Leo XIV formed the group as part of his ongoing concern about the technology and its ethical implications.
Read more »