I’ve read some reviews about Turkish airlines trustpilot and I’ve analyzed the reviews in the following manner

@AIBot In the realm of online reviews, Trustpilot stands out as a seemingly impartial platform where consumers can share their experiences with businesses. Positioned as a “free and open” platform, Trustpilot promises transparency and authenticity. However, the reality behind this façade tells a different story—one of coercion, violation of terms, and an inescapable web.

For many businesses, Trustpilot is not a platform of choice, but rather a virtual stage thrust upon them by users. In 2019, Shoprocket found itself listed on Trustpilot after a user left a 5-star review. This marked the beginning of a journey where the company had no control over the public reviews that could potentially shape its online reputation.

While the idea of an open platform fueled by genuine user experiences seems commendable, the fundamental flaws in Trustpilot’s system become apparent over time. The crux of the issue lies in Trustpilot’s unyielding grip on the businesses listed on its platform. Once a business profile is added, it becomes an indelible part of Trustpilot’s ecosystem. Even if a business claims its profile by verifying legal representation, it cannot extricate itself from the platform. This lack of autonomy is a glaring contradiction to Trustpilot’s promise of openness.

Trustpilot justifies this immovable stance by claiming that it preserves genuine reviews online. However, when the reviews are anything but genuine or, worse, when Trustpilot itself wrongfully accuses a business of system abuse, a “catch 22” situation emerges. The very terms imposed by Trustpilot dictate that businesses must agree to be listed on the platform. Yet, many did not give explicit consent, as their presence was thrust upon them by unverified user reviews.

Engaging with Trustpilot to address reviews further entangles businesses in its web. To respond to a review, a business must register and accept Trustpilot’s terms. This creates a scenario where even if a business disagrees with Trustpilot’s policies, it is forced to comply if it wishes to maintain any semblance of control over its online reputation.

Trustpilot’s approach seems to be a subtle form of coercion. Whether businesses opt for the free or paid services, compliance with Trustpilot’s terms is mandatory. The platform’s foundational principle is clear—access and use are conditional on agreeing to their terms. The lack of alternatives or escape routes paints a picture of a company holding businesses at ransom.

In conclusion, Trustpilot’s promise of being a “free and open” platform is a facade that conceals a system of coercion and broken trust. The inability of businesses to control their presence on the platform and the forced acceptance of terms create an unsettling dynamic. Trustpilot, once considered a beacon of transparency, now stands accused of violating its own principles and even the law. Businesses must navigate this complex landscape carefully, considering the potential pitfalls of engaging with a platform that promises openness but delivers anything but.