Wowcher investigated over allegedly misleading consumers with urgency claims

An investigation has been launched into whether Wowcher placed "unfair pressure" on their customers through different practices.

On Friday, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) said it is examining whether the deals platform business "misled consumers" by using countdown timers and other practices on their website.

The probe comes two days after the watchdog announced a crackdown on online pressure-selling tactics retailers use to potentially speed up decision-making.

The watchdog will look into the use of the timers, which tell shoppers deals will soon disappear, as well as how the business enrols consumers on its membership scheme.

Sarah Cardell, chief executive of the CMA, said: "People who buy online should not be pressurised by practices implying that they must act quickly to avoid missing out, when this is not the case."

Ms Cardell said that if the company uses these misleading tactics, the watchdog "won't hesitate to take enforcement action, through the courts if necessary."

The CMA has said that this is the second investigation opened into "urgency claims" and that "all companies should take note and review their own practices".

A Wowcher spokesman said: "Wowcher's mission has always been to help save our customers' money with the best, exclusive offers from thousands of our merchants across the UK.

"This has never been more important than in this challenging economic environment.

"We support the aims of the CMA's investigation and will work with them to ensure that our customers have the best possible experience when they shop with us."

If you or someone you know has been a victim of Wowcher and have presented a mis-selling claim to them and you think you have been mistreated, we want to hear from you.

Please email us with your story in strict confidence at hello@shoout.com

If we feel we can publicise your story, we will contact you.