We all know that celebrities endorse products, but we don’t really know if they use them. Mom bloggers that post reviews use the product. It does become an advertisement, but above all it is a review.
Are you aware that the FTC is trying to decide if review blogs are “violation of good business practices”? In April 09 an article was posted on the ABC site titled Parenting Blogs May Be Held Liable for Product Reviews.
Until I find out what is going on I’m taking the following steps:
- have a disclosure on my blog using the template from DisclosurePolicy.org,
- make sure I disclose if I was given a free product to try or paid for the review,
- clearly state if I’m quoting someone else, and
- be honest about how the product worked or didn’t work.
There is some more great information at Mama Saga.
If you are a reviewer keep your ear to the ground to find out what happens with the FTC and review blogs.
