FTC Focuses on 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?
If you are endorsing or promoting a product by doing reviews, you will have to state that you get compensaion for you efforts should someone by from your link. In a nutshell the general public must be informed by you that you will be compensated either by a gift or by money from the product owner should the consumer purchase from your link based on your endorsement. In other words, you may want to attach a little note saying, “This is my affiliate link, if you buy this product after clicking on this link I will be compensated” You get the idea. You may want to seek legal counsil on this subject. I will state for the record, I am not a lawer and not giving legal advice here. “Yes I am protecting myself here.”
This new ruling goes into effect on Dec. 1st, 2009. This actually going to help out the honest blogger. What will be bad is if you don’t follow the 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 wrote a killer post on this. Google him if you don’t already know him. The post is absolutely terrific and shares information given to him from a lawyer he knows and trusts.
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.
God Bless!