Would paid/sponsored blog posts make a site less trusting?

[froggyboy604]

It is possible since I think some people mistake paid/sponsored blog posts as commercials, ads, and not as trustworthy as non-paid posts.

I read that the FCC now requires webmasters to tell their visitors that post, video, etc on a website is sponsored by a company.

The FTC has updated its Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising for the first time since 1980, and among the changes, a requirement that “bloggers who make an endorsement must disclose the material connections they share with the seller of the product or service.” Fines for violating the new rule will run up to $11,000 per post.

http://mashable.com/2009/10/05/ftc-blog ... orsements/

I also think this video sums out why paid product demos and "The shopping Channel" can be an untrustworthy place to get product advice from. The guy said the Sword was nice until it broke and stab him in the arm.

[youtube]Mn78pCV5oCo[/youtube]

 

[KeithSECTalk]

Re: Would paid/sponsored blog posts make a site less trustin

The rule is dumb and is not and will never be followed. A person should have some common sense and be able to pick what is legit and not for themselves.

 

[froggyboy604]

Re: Would paid/sponsored blog posts make a site less trustin

I agree it is a dumb law created by the US government which does not really protect consumers. People should research many sources before making a decision like "which car to buy, etc". Some free advice I got in the past was pretty bad, and some paid/sponsored advice from a book or website was pretty good.

If you own a big website in the US or have enemies/competitors who want to snitch you out for "breaking this law", it is best to follow the rule since being fined $11,000 per post isn't worth it and the FCC is part of the US government, so they might have a better chance of winning a court case if they decide to take a web master to court because the judge might find the FCC more trustworthy and the FCC can afford a better legal team.