FTC Releases New Rules That Affect Bloggers
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On October 5th, 2009 the FTC published and released to the public its final revisions on guides governing endorsements and testimonials.
What this happens now you ask?
Basically if you are endorsing a product particularly when you are doing a review on it, you must state your relationship with the product owner. quite simply, the viewers on your site will now see that you are affiliated with the products you are promoting because you will now have to state it were they can see it. You may do somethin as simple as saying, “Hey if you buy from this link I will get a little commission if thats alright with you” Something like that. Please check with a lawyer and get their advice on this. Please know that I am not giving any type of legal advice here and have am in no way claiming to have a legal background. “Yeah, that is a disclaimer.”
This new ruling goes into effect on Dec. 1st, 2009. This actually going to help out the honest blogger. What can be bad is if you do not pay close attention to these new rules.
David Goldman, staff writer for CNN Money notes in his article released on October 6th, that the existing rules carry a fine as high as $11,000 if product endorsers and reviewers don’t comply.
Frank Kern put together on of the best articles out there on this one. do a google search for his name and you will find tons of his posts. This post of Kerns is chock full of stuff that gets you thinking and has some extra goodies from one of his lawyer buds.
So, do yourself a favor and go to the Federal Trade Commission site and read the entire article.
Personally, I think it is great for bloggers that are truthful and want to give great content to help consumers make informed decision on a purchase. I also believe that this will help in the fight against the guys that are not being honest and will assist in getting consumer trust back.
Have an awesome day!
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