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Rakuten controversies

Controversies tied to this brand in public sources. A listing is not a finding of fault.

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  1. 2021

    IBM sues Rakuten over e-commerce patents

    Lawsuit filed

    IBM filed a complaint against Rakuten and related entities in the District of Delaware, alleging infringement of IBM patents related to e-commerce. IBM sought declaratory and injunctive relief and damages, costs, and fees; the allegations are not presented as a court finding.

    Source excerpt

    • On Monday, International Business Machines Corporation (IBM) filed a complaint in the District of Delaware against Rakuten Inc., Rakuten USA Inc., Rakuten Commerce LLC, and Ebates Inc. doing business as Rakuten for patent infringement, alleging that the defendants infringed its patents related to e-commerce.
    • IBM seeks declaratory and injunctive relief and an award for damages, costs, and fees.
    Source

  2. 2014

    Alleged inflation of reference prices

    Reports alleged that some Rakuten merchants were encouraged to increase listed reference prices before offering large discounts or coupons. Critics argued that this could make promotions appear more substantial than they were. The Consumer Affairs Agency reportedly examined the issue.

    Source

  3. 2012

    Kobo Touch launch and review controversy

    The Japanese launch of the Kobo Touch was affected by activation, application, and network problems. After consumers posted many negative reviews on Rakuten, the company temporarily disabled product reviews, which generated further criticism. Rakuten later said the measure was exceptional and that reviews would be restored after the issues were examined.

    Source

  4. 2012

    Kobo e-book catalog and advertising criticism

    Marketing materials claimed a larger Japanese-language e-book selection than was initially available. Company statements about reaching additional catalog targets were also criticized, and Japan's Consumer Affairs Agency raised concerns that the representations could violate rules against misleading product descriptions. Rakuten apologized. The Japanese Kobo catalog also drew criticism over a repackaged collection of Wikipedia articles and licensing treatment.

    Source