What laws govern reviews and ratings for e-commerce websites?

In Virginia, businesses that operate an e-commerce website must abide by the consumer protection laws set forth by the Consumer Protection Act of 1977. The law prohibits websites from posting any false, deceptive, or misleading reviews or ratings. Additionally, businesses must ensure that any information posted on a website or sent to customers is accurate. Businesses must also be aware of the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) Endorsement and Testimonial Guidelines. According to the guidelines, businesses are “prohibited from making false or unsubstantiated claims about a product or service in an endorsement or testimonial.” The guidelines also state that any endorsers must disclose any material connections they have with the business, such as receiving a free product in exchange for a review. Additionally, businesses must keep a record of all reviews and ratings on their website, regardless of whether they are favorable or unfavorable. This is because the Virginia Consumer Protection Act prohibits businesses from deleting or altering any reviews or ratings on their website. Finally, businesses that operate an e-commerce website must abide by Virginia’s Deceptive Trade Practices laws. This law prohibits businesses from engaging in deceptive trade practices such as making false or misleading representations about a product or service, or using an unfair or deceptive business practice. Overall, businesses that operate an e-commerce website in Virginia must ensure that their reviews and ratings comply with the consumer protection laws set forth by the Consumer Protection Act of 1977, the Federal Trade Commission’s Endorsement and Testimonial Guidelines, and the Deceptive Trade Practices laws. Failure to do so may result in legal penalties.

What laws govern reviews and ratings for e-commerce websites?

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