What are the FTC rules on advertising to children?

In Washington, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has enacted strict advertising rules concerning children. These rules prohibit false, misleading, or deceptive advertising when marketing to children. Specifically, ad messages must not be designed to deceive or be difficult for children to understand. In addition, advertisers should not use overly-aggressive tactics to pressure children into buying products. The FTC also requires that any ads directed to children must be truthful, substantiated, and not contain any information that the audience might find offensive. For example, ads must not contain any abhorrent, harmful, or inappropriate language or images. Advertisers must also ensure that ads comply with the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act and the Children’s Television Act. Advertisers also have to abide by specific rules when featuring toys, food, games, clothing and other items aimed at children. These rules require companies to ensure that the products are appropriate for children, adequately tested, and meet all safety requirements. Finally, companies must follow the guidelines set forth in the FTC’s "Marketing Food to Children and Adolescents: A Review of Industry Expenditures, Activities, and Self-Regulation" document. These rules govern how food, beverage, and supplement advertisements are marketed to young people.

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What are the FTC rules on advertising to children?

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