On October 5th, 2009 the FTC published and released to the public its final revisions on guides governing endorsements and testimonials.
What does this means for the Bloggers of the world that have affiliate links on their sites?
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. 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.
Please check with a lawyer and get their advice on this.
I am not a lawyer and have no legal background. “Yeah, that is a disclaimer.”
This new ruling goes into effect on Dec. 1st, 2009.
This is not a bad thing for those of you that are honest bloggers. 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 also did a bang up job writing an article post about this. Google him if you don’t already know him. His post puts it all together and just nails it hard with what he learned from one of his lawyer pals.
So, do yourself a favor and go to the Federal Trade Commission site and read the entire article.
My Personal Opinion?
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. Additionally I think it will cut down on the deception out there and give the consumers a better sense of security and good feelings about buying on line again.
Till next time!
The Bloggomaniac
