What are the FTC rules on endorsements and testimonials?
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has rules concerning endorsements and testimonials that apply to all states in the U.S., including Washington. The guidelines are designed to ensure that consumers are not misled and that advertisers are truthful in their advertising claims. The FTC requires that endorsers and testimonials must be genuine, honest, and reflect the endorser’s actual experience. Endorsers cannot make claims that they have no basis to believe are true. They must also have a clear connection to the product or service at hand. If endorsers were paid or given other compensation (such as free samples) in exchange for their endorsement, the consumer must be informed of this. The endorser must also disclose any material connections they may have with the product or service. Advertisers are responsible for monitoring endorsers and testimonials to ensure that their claims are truthful. When making claims, advertisers must also have evidence to back them up. Finally, endorsers must be held accountable for their claims and testimonials, and any false or deceptive statements must be corrected. In brief, FTC endorsements and testimonials guidelines are designed to ensure that consumers are receiving accurate and truthful information so they can make informed decisions. Advertisers must have evidence to back up their claims and endorsers must disclose any material connections. Consumers must also be informed if endorsers are receiving any compensation for their endorsement.
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