Algorithms, competition and consumer harm: call for information
The CMA is inviting views and evidence on the harms outlined in its paper on algorithms and information on specific issues with firms that the CMA could examine and consider for future action.
The CMA has published a paper on ‘Algorithms: How they can reduce competition and harm consumers’. Respondents should refer to the relevant parts of the paper when considering the questions below.
- Press release: CMA lifts the lid on impact of algorithms
We will use the responses from this call for information to inform and enhance our analysing algorithms programme.
As we develop our approach to investigating, mitigating and remedying the harms outlined in the paper, we invite responses to the following questions:
- Are the potential harms set out in the review paper the right ones to focus on for our algorithms programme? Are there others that we have not covered that deserve attention?
- Do you agree with how we have described each harm, and are there other examples that demonstrate them in addition to the examples we have included?
- How likely and impactful are the identified harms now, and how might they evolve in the next few years?
- Are there specific examples that we should investigate further to consider whether they are particularly harmful and potentially breaching consumer or competition law?
- Are there any examples of techniques that we should be aware of or that we should consider beyond those that we’ve outlined?
- Are there other examples where competition or consumer agencies have interrogated algorithms that we have not included?
- Is the role of regulators in addressing the harms we set out in the paper feasible, effective and proportionate?
- Are there other ideas or approaches that we should consider as part of our role?
Questions 1 to 4 refer to Section 2 of the algorithms paper, questions 5 and 6 relate to Section 3 and questions 7 and 8 refer to Section 4.
We also invite academics or other organisations who would be interested in collaborating on our algorithms programme to contact us.
Next stepsIn providing responses, please say whether you are an individual or a business, or if you represent consumer or business interests. Please provide your name and email address and indicate whether you would be happy for us to follow-up with you.
Please note that we are unable to provide advice on individual complaints. Our website provides links to sources of advice, information and support.
We will be publishing on our website responses from businesses and other organisations. In providing responses, please:
- provide a brief summary of the interest or organisation that you represent, where appropriate
- state whether you are providing any material that you consider to be confidential and explain why this is the case
- provide both confidential version and a non-confidential version for publication of your response