Directions: Read the passage below and answer the question.
A study on consumer behaviour found that online reviews significantly influence purchasing decisions. However, the study also noted that not all online reviews are trustworthy, as some may be biassed or fake.
Question:
Based on the information provided in the passage, what is the key takeaway for consumers regarding online reviews?
Consumers should always trust online reviews.
Consumers should disregard all online reviews as untrustworthy.
Consumers should be cautious and discerning when relying on online reviews.
Consumers should rely solely on offline reviews.
The passage indicates that online reviews significantly influence purchasing decisions but also warns that not all online reviews are trustworthy due to potential biases or fakes. The key takeaway for consumers is to exercise caution and discernment when relying on online reviews, as not all of them can be considered reliable. Option C accurately reflects this message.
Option A is not the correct answer because it suggests that consumers should always trust online reviews, which contradicts the cautionary note in the passage.
Option B is not the correct answer because it dismisses all online reviews as untrustworthy, which is an extreme stance not supported by the passage.
Option D is not the correct answer because it suggests relying solely on offline reviews, which is not discussed in the passage.