I think there is a difference. The scammers that Trialynn is referring to are deceptive in their approach. I have taken a few times where they tell you all you are getting but you only pay $29.99 (or something) and then you get the up sells presented. Even if you refuse, you are billed for it later. That is a scam.

I sell jewelry and offer related items with every sale, such as matching earrings with a necklace, or a jewelry polishing cloth. I do not do this in any deceptive way, and some people do take advantage of my offers, while do not.

I think many marketing tactics can be done poorly, be deceptive, and make people feel like they are being hoodwinked or pressured. The key is in the presentation.

I bought something recently online that had an up sell offer. When I declined, I was offered a coupon to take advantage of it with 10 days. Time limited offers can give the customer a change to try, then buy again.

I really believe they fall into the scam field, making you believe you are getting something of 'value' and then requiring (or at least feeling pushed) into buying more to be successful!

Been there too, such a scam!

I hate upsell, I won't even give it a chance, it just makes me mad and then I hit the I am leaving button