Colorado's consumer protection act declares bait and switch advertising to be a deceptive trade practice. Bait and switch advertising includes which of the following?

Bait and switch advertising is a deceptive practice that involves enticing consumers with low prices or attractive offers for items that are, in fact, unavailable or not genuinely offered. In Colorado’s consumer protection context, this practice undermines fair competition and misleads consumers, leading them to believe they are getting a good deal when they actually are being directed towards a different product or higher prices.

The foundation of bait and switch advertising is rooted in the first aspect: advertising low prices without the actual availability of the advertised item. This not only fails to meet consumer expectations but also manipulates them into considering alternatives that may not have been their original intent.

Furthermore, encouraging customers to consider higher-priced items fits within the bait and switch framework. This tactic is often employed to steer consumers away from the original bargain, subtly shifting their focus toward more expensive options.

Lastly, offering fake discounts also falls under deceptive practices. When discounts are presented that do not reflect actual savings or are applied to items that are not genuinely discounted, it deceives consumers and violates the integrity expected in advertising.

Therefore, since all these practices contribute to the definition of bait and switch advertising, the comprehensive option that encapsulates these elements is indeed the correct choice.