In recent years, with the rise of online shopping, consumers can leave reviews of products and services they buy. However, while sellers are happy to receive positive reviews, some have brought lawsuits against people posting negative reviews in a bid to claim compensation. In the ensuing debate, some have emphasized that this is people’s right to leave genuine reviews, positive or negative, but a judge has said the pre-condition to protecting the rights of consumers relies on whether they use insulting language.
Shi Hongju, a commentator for news site www.legaldaily.com.cn, stated that the right to leave negative reviews is the right of supervision, issued by China’s Consumer Protection Law, to help protect consumers. The right to give comprehensive reviews is useful for potential consumers to know what to expect and to help them choose what they want to buy, Shi added.
Wang Weiwei, a judge at the Beijing Third Intermediate People's Court, noted that while consumers do have the right to leave reviews, including praise, dissatisfaction or complaints, they cannot post using insulting or defamatory language.