New rules clarified for social media marketers

4th June 2008

New legislation regulating the way in which advertisers can market online came into effect last month.

The Consumer Protection Law will prohibit any false advertising on social media sites and anything that is specifically targeting children.

These bans are part of 31 practices deemed unfair, misleading or aggressive that will now be illegal under the new regulations.

Other practices prohibited are spamming, misuse of the word 'free' and the creation or entry of blogs by advertisers claiming to be consumers.

Individuals or companies found to be in breach of the laws may pick up heavy fines and could face up to two years imprisonment.

Despite the focus being on online practices, any violation will be a prosecutable offence, whether it is based online or not.

Another new directive by the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations is hoped to ensure traders act honestly and fairly towards customers.