Fake Reviews, Influencers and Toxic Marketing Examined
The U.S. Federal Trade Commission plans to tighten regulations on posting fake positive reviews online to sell products or services, including video games.
Source: Pixabay/@ExplorerBob
Almost every day we come across reviews of various products, including video games, or services on the Internet. The problem is that a large percentage of them are manipulated by marketers or influencers - the latter often hide the fact that they were paid to publish fake content. Many people are misled by such actions, and honest marketers or publishers lose the chance to gain customers.
Influencers and advertisers under government scrutiny
As reported by gamesindustry.biz, The Federal Trade Commission may be soon cut short in the United States. The independent US government agency is working on stricter guidelines on false and manipulated reviews.
"We're updating guidelines to crack down on fake reviews and other forms of misleading marketing, and warning marketers about hidden advertising that targets children, reported FTC Consumer Protection Bureau Director Samuel Levine.
The agency's announcement also includes information aimed at social media about the inadequate performance of their tools that present sponsored content.
Children under special care
It is worth mentioning that Federal Trade Commission pays special attention to ads aimed at children. They perceive this type of content differently than adults, which makes them more vulnerable to manipulation.
The FTC also announced plans to hold a public meeting this October to examine the ability of children of all ages to recognize and perceive advertising content.
It is hoped that the Federal Trade Commission's plans will have a positive effect and reduce unfair practices by advertisers toward children as well as adults. It would be nice if you share your thoughts on this in the comments.
