Bloggers Beware! Don’t Not Tell About the Freebies!

Curt — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 00:08:57 +0000

It’s official. If you’re a blogger and you’re compensated to review or support something, you need to clearly state that you’re being compensated, lest you run afoul of the Federal Trade Commission.

CNN reports!

News You Can Use for Social Media Users

Curt — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 18:07:35 +0000

So, as it seems to always has been, people can go beyond the bounds of common sense and good manners, so the Government steps in. Just know, some of this is purposefully brought on by those on the web, we “find” a new way to pump up their position on the search engines.

Now the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is looking into regulating things such as product endorsements found online…anywhere.

Certainly, as consumers, who now have a worldwide reach via comments on Facebook, Twitter, blogs and a variety of other platforms, we would want to know that a personal endorsement of a product of service is either unbiased, or a benefactor of the item of recommendation. Look in the mirror: Will you be upfront in your comments online?

Consider your recommendations carefully. If you’re getting a piece of the action, or residuals, or product for use to generate the endorsement, it’s reasonable and fair (not to mention an FTC requirement) to let readers know your interest. After all, you’d want to know, wouldn’t you?

And, if it’s your own product or service, ask your recommenders to be upfront to keep everyone knowing the real score.

The Computer Whisperer » FTC

Bloggers Beware! Don’t Not Tell About the Freebies!

News You Can Use for Social Media Users