Astroturfing

Use comments, ratings, etc. from fake or hidden users to advertise or promote a product or idea. This is a controversial method and is required by law in several countries.

Not all people sell using ethical methods. Astroturfing is frowned upon and is a controversial way to generate traffic through fake or secret user reviews or ratings to promote a product or idea. Freelance writers are often paid to review and are asked to write a negative or positive review of something, depending on the client.

Astroturfing is the spreading of an idea or message in such a way that it appears that the idea or message will spread naturally. In other words, astroturfers create campaigns that seem popular, but aren't (grass...grass...you get the idea).

Meanings of Astroturfing

1. (US Politics) The disguise of an organized campaign as a popular event, that is, a spontaneous rise of public opinion.