Blogackers

12.00 Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4

On October 5^th, 2009 the FTC published and released to the public its final revisions on guides governing endorsements and testimonials.

What does this means for the Bloggers of the world that have affiliate links on their sites?

You will have to announce that you get paid a commission if someone buys from your affiliate link. In a nutshell the general public must be informed by you that you will be compensated either by a gift or by money from the product owner should the consumer purchase from your link based on your endorsement. In other words, you may want to attach a little note saying, “This is my affiliate link, if you buy this product after clicking on this link I will be compensated” You get the idea. It’s always a good idea to get the right legal advice in these matters. I am not a lawyer and have no legal background. “You got it, this is a disclaimer.”

This new ruling goes into effect on Dec. 1^st, 2009. It is really not bad for the honest bloggers that have the consumers best interest at heart. What may be bad for you is if you do not follow the new guidelines.

David Goldman, staff writer for CNN Money notes in his article released on October 6^th, that the existing rules carry a fine as high as $11,000 if product endorsers and reviewers don’t comply.

Frank Kern masterfully put together one hell of a post on his blog site. you can googe his name and find all sorts of stuff he writes about. The information in his post is off the hook with tid bits from an attourney he is friends with.

So, do yourself a favor and go to the Federal Trade Commission site and read the entire article.

Personally, I think it is great for bloggers that are truthful and want to give great content to help consumers make informed decision on a purchase. I also think it will help weed out the dis honest folks and give the customers peace of mind when purchasing.

Cheers!

The Bloggomaniac