What are the FTC social media guidelines for Twitter? The main takeaway: disclose, disclose, disclose!
FTC’s Twitter Guidelines
On the matter of Twitter advertising, the FTC says:
“The FTC isn’t mandating the specific wording of disclosures. However, the same general principle – that people have the information they need to evaluate sponsored statements – applies across the board, regardless of the advertising medium. A hashtag like “#paid ad” uses only 8 characters. Shorter hashtags – like “#paid” and “#ad” – also might be effective.”
Every business and marketer should read the FTC’s influencer and social media marketing rules.
FTC Social Media Guidelines: Overall Impressions Matter
An advertisement’s overall impression is important to U.S. regulators. One statement may not, by itself, get you in trouble. However, the combination of the statements, images, and claims may be considered deceptive when looked at holistically. In other words, “I didn’t mean it that way” isn’t a valid excuse and won’t stop regulatory agencies from taking action.
Takeaway: FTC Twitter Advertising Rule
The main FTC Twitter rule is to disclose all sponsored and compensated tweets. If a tea company — or any other type of company or marketer — pays you to post something about a product or service, include an #ad, #sponsored, or #paid hashtag.
Got Online Marketing and Advertising Questions?
Are you a freelancer, startup, or marketer with a digital advertising or marketing legal question? Has the FTC sent you a letter? Do you want to avoid one? Perhaps you have questions about FTC Twitter guidelines.
I’m Aaron Kelly, a lawyer with substantial advertising and marketing law experience. I’ve won cases against the Federal Trade Commission and regularly help companies develop compliant marketing campaigns.
If you need legal advice, representation, or simply need a questioned answered, get in touch.
I look forward to speaking.
