Internet Marketing Guide – 4 Deadly Internet Marketing SinsThe Truth About Fast Weight LossI Finally Launched FortinPress!Healthy Weight Loss Programs – How To Spot A Fraud by Malton A. SchexneiderFast And Quick Weight Loss Diet PlanWeight Loss Myths, Myths on DietingWhy Do You Need Local Internet MarketingSmall Business Internet Marketing Consultant PhiladelphiaJust Ask Kim – Internet Marketing Made Easy!Tips In Using Website Internet Marketing

The Two Deadly Internet Marketing Sins

Few things you can do raise red flags with the FTC like (a) unfair, deceptive, or fraudulent advertising and (b) predatory payment practices.

Unfair, Deceptive or Fraudulent Advertising

This type of advertising includes making unsupported claims about your product or service, and misleading endorsements and testimonials.

Unsubstantiated Claims.

Health and diet products are particular targets of both the FTC and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In fact, the FTC announced on January 4, 2007, that it had nailed four weight loss companies (Xenadrine EFX, CortiSlim, TrimSpa, and One-A-Day WeightSmart) for making unsubstantiated claims about their products.

“You won’t find weight loss in a bottle of pills that claims it has the latest scientific breakthrough or miracle ingredient,” said FTC Chairman Deborah Platt Majoras. “Paying for fad science is a good way to lose cash, not pounds.”

It is easy to understand that you don’t make claims that your product causes weight loss unless you have scientific proof to back it up.

Even if you would never lie, your affiliate marketers can paint a bulls-eye on your forehead by making false claims on your behalf.

The FTC doesn’t want false “miracle” cures being sold. It doesn’t care whether or not you are personally making the misrepresentations. The goal is to protect the consumer. If it takes shutting you down to prevent your affiliates from lying to the public, then so be it.

Share

What Is The Federal Trade Commission?

The Federal Trade Commission is a large government agency that employs investigators, attorneys, and administrative law judges. It is headed by five Commissioners who serve 7-year terms after being nominated by the President and confirmed by the U.S. Senate.

By judicial precedent (prior court decisions), statutes, and regulations, the FTC’s authority to act on behalf of consumers against you is extremely broad. Responsible for enforcement and administrative duties under 46 statutes, here are a few of the major laws that the FTC relies upon.

* Federal Trade Commission Act

* Consumer Leasing Act

* Electronic Funds Transfer Act

* Equal Credit Opportunity Act

* Fair Credit Billing Act

* Fair Credit Reporting Act

* Fair Debt Collection Practices Act

* Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act

* Truth in Lending Act

* CAN-SPAM Act

Share

FTC Proposed Business Opportunity Rule

On April 5, 2006, the Federal Trade Commission proposed a new Business Opportunity Rule.

In 44 pages , the FTC made it clear that it is heading towards regulating Internet businesses like brick-and-mortar ventures.

Because of the hostile public response, particularly among MLM/network marketing organizations, this proposal has temporarily been shelved while the Federal Trade Commission considers less draconian measures.

It may be years before a final FTC rule is issued but it will come.

Gazing into the crystal ball, one sees Internet businesses becoming as heavily regulated as franchises, the securities industry, and banking.

What does this mean to you?

The FTC already has the power to shut down businesses for violating existing law.

Take an hour to read this book to become acquainted with the Federal Trade Commission and how it works.

After you’ve read it, consult with your legal counsel and take whatever steps are needed to ensure that you’re in full compliance with consumer protection laws.

Share
Internet Marketing Guide – 4 Deadly Internet Marketing SinsThe Truth About Fast Weight LossI Finally Launched FortinPress!Healthy Weight Loss Programs – How To Spot A Fraud by Malton A. SchexneiderFast And Quick Weight Loss Diet PlanWeight Loss Myths, Myths on DietingWhy Do You Need Local Internet MarketingSmall Business Internet Marketing Consultant PhiladelphiaJust Ask Kim – Internet Marketing Made Easy!Tips In Using Website Internet Marketing

Free! Get Internet legal and marketing updates plus 3 chapters of the #1 Internet legal protection book for business website owners. Over 40 pages packed with strategies you can use to protect yourself without a lawyer.