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Yo. I'm a CreComm, year one. I do stuff and takes notes.

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Advertising -- What makes an ad illegal?

What makes an ad illegal in Canada?
False/Misleading

Competition Act (CA) gov't regulated


Ad Standards Canada - group of advertisers regulating ads
breaking rule in CA -- fines up to 1 million, or jail time

False/Misleading

  • promises you can't make or keep (eg. restores youth)
  • incomplete description (eg. oak table when it has parts made from plastic)
  • comparison (eg.papa johns vs. pizza hut) 
  • bait and switch (eg. advertise one product and not have it, but offer more expensive version)
  • puffery (eg. claims close to reality that can't be backed up)
  • deception (visual distortion or false demonstration)
  • false testimonial (celebs need to actually be on meds they're advertising)
  • partial disclosure (medical side effects = full disclosure)
  • small print
Viagra ads don't need full side effects disclosure because they don't promise medical benefits. They sell a lifestyle.
Advertising is deceptive, manipulative, makes us materialistic, etc.
BUT advertising encourages competition, new productions, boosts the economy, etc.
Best ad technique? Honesty.

Advertising makes you think.

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