What is "bid rigging"?

Bid rigging is a fraudulent practice where bidders collude to influence and control the outcomes of an auction. In this scenario, participants work together to manipulate the bidding process, often agreeing in advance who will win the auction and at what price. This undermines the principles of a competitive bidding environment, leading to inflated prices, limited competition, and unfair advantages for those involved in the collusion.

The essence of bid rigging lies in its deceitful nature, where the supposed competition is merely a façade. As a result, it erodes trust in the auction process and can have legal ramifications for those involved, as it is considered an antitrust violation in many jurisdictions. Understanding bid rigging is crucial for ensuring the integrity of auctions and promoting fair market practices.