I’ve been getting many questions about the new FTC guidelines that
are changing the way that you can market online.
To save you time, here’s the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).
Q: When did the guidelines go into effect?
A: December 1, 2009.
Q: Will I have to fix my website because of the new guidelines?
A: If (1) you’re based in the U.S., or (2) you live outside the
United States but sell to U.S. clients, you’re probably going to
have to make some changes to reduce your legal risks.
Q: Is it serious?
A: It’s bad enough that some big info product gurus are retiring
because they don’t want the FTC to come after them under the new
guidelines. Their business models were based on doing things that
can get you into a lot of trouble now.
Q: How much trouble?
A: Depends. Could get away with something. Could get a nasty FTC
letter telling you to stop. Could also get sued, have your assets
frozen, pay a big settlement, and even be barred from online
marketing in the future.
Q: What’s the solution?
A: Ideally, you’d want your Internet lawyer to help you fix things
to reduce risk. If you can’t afford that (typically 4 figures per site),
at least read the new guidelines at ftc.gov and the complimentary
special reports you’ll find on this blog.
