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Stay off the astroturf
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The Regulations allow, in cases of breach, for penalties of unlimited fines and, even, in extreme circumstances, prison sentences of up to 2 years. As if that weren’t enough astroturfing is also a breach of the Code of Advertising, Sales Formation and Direct Marketing.
The law in this country is heavily protective of consumers and their rights and is particularly geared to prevent situations where consumers may be misled. The process of “astroturfing”* is prohibited by the unimaginatively named Consumer Protection From Unfair Trading Regulations.
The Regulations allow, in cases of breach, for penalties of unlimited fines and, even, in extreme circumstances, prison sentences of up to 2 years. As if that weren’t enough astroturfing is also a breach of the Code of Advertising, Sales Formation and Direct Marketing.
Whilst the legal sanctions are robust they are not widely enforced and astroturfing is still rife. However, all those engaged in it should be aware that they are not only breaking the law but risk serious damage to their business reputation should they be uncovered as the source of any false reviews
*So named because it is designed to create false grass routes followings.
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