https://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/ftcs-rule-banning-fake-online-reviews-effect-115009298

 
ABC News

Video

Live

 

Shows

Elections

538

Shop

 
[                    ][SUBMIT]
Log In

Stream on

hulu

FTC's rule banning fake online reviews goes into effect

A federal rule banning fake online reviews is now in effect

ByThe Associated Press
October 21, 2024, 7:45 PM

  * 
  * 
  * 
  * 

[wirestory_]
1:21
FILE - Lina Khan, then the nominee for Commissioner of the Federal
Trade Commission (FTC), speaks a confirmation hearing, April 21,
2021, on Capitol Hill in Washington. (Graeme Jennings/Washington
Examiner via AP, Pool, File)
The Associated Press

WASHINGTON -- A federal rule banning fake online reviews is now in
effect.

The Federal Trade Commission issued the rule in August banning the
sale or purchase of online reviews. The rule, which went into effect
Monday, allows the agency to seek civil penalties against those who
knowingly violate it.

"Fake reviews not only waste people's time and money, but also
pollute the marketplace and divert business away from honest
competitors," FTC Chair Lina Khan said about the rule in August. She
added that the rule will "protect Americans from getting cheated, put
businesses that unlawfully game the system on notice, and promote
markets that are fair, honest, and competitive."

Specifically, the rule bans reviews and testimonials attributed to
people who don't exist or are generated by artificial intelligence,
people who don't have experience with the business or product/
services, or misrepresent their experience.

It also bans businesses from creating or selling reviews or
testimonials. Businesses that knowingly buy fake reviews, procure
them from company insiders or disseminate fake reviews will be
penalized. It also prohibits businesses from using "unfounded or
groundless legal threats, physical threats, intimidation, or certain
false public accusations."

People can report violations at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov.

---------------------------------------------------------------------
ABC News
---------------------------------------------------------------------

Popular Reads

 
[Jeffries-f]

Ex-Abercrombie CEO arrested in trafficking probe

  * 2 hours ago

 
[liam-payne]

Details from Liam Payne's partial autopsy revealed

  * Oct 21, 10:09 AM

 
[wirestory_]

Lower-priced new cars are gaining popularity, and not just for
cash-poor buyers

  * Oct 21, 4:55 PM

 
[wirestory_]

Middle East latest: Israel apologizes for strike that killed 3
Lebanese soldiers

  * Oct 21, 4:18 AM

 
[wirestory_]

New Mexico authorities rescue hundreds after flooding strands many in
high water and leaves 2 dead

  * Oct 21, 9:11 AM

ABC News Live

ABC News Live

24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events

ABC News Network
About Nielsen Measurement
Children's Online Privacy Policy
Contact Us
Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
Interest-Based Ads
Privacy Policy
Terms of Use
Your US State Privacy Rights
(c) 2024 ABC News