Delta does the same thing with some A and G bucket fares, but IME they're only offered domestically on all DL metal. It's easier to see what fare basis you are actually booking there, it's not buried in some little link that after you purchase you can never return to.

United sucks for many reasons but IMO this is at the top of the list. It's deceptive, at least, and probably better classified as fraudulent.

UA really needs to clean up its IT act. It's the crux of 80% of their problems, and seems to be at the bottom of their list of priorities for "enhancements". As for me until they clean up that aspect, my only bookings are on funny money and miles. Oh wait, I already burned all those.

The other 20% of their problems are primarily based on having rules that are enforced deferentially depending on who you talk to. But that's another thread.