Today it was announced that the Federal Trade Commission will begin to regulate bloggers in regards to product reviews, freebies and payment for coverage. Beginning December 1, 2009, writers of web content will be required to disclose goods and services given to them in exchange for such coverage.
This is a decision that I wholeheartedly support, both as a blog reader and a blog writer. It will only increase the credibility of on-line media and, for that, I am thankful.
More traditional journalists have been held to this standard for decades, enabling media consumers to understand the integrity of the reviews they read, see or hear.
Like millions others, I look daily toward the internet to gain information. And I want that information to be accurate and unbiased. If the review of something is, in any way, influenced by a complimentary product or service, I’d like to know that up front.
Now, let me be clear, I do not believe that just because something was given to a reporter (or blogger) to review that the review is completely tarnished… but knowing that helps me to more-fully appreciate the reviewer’s perspective.
This decision will help me, as a consumer, to have a better understanding of the information presented to me online so that I can better educate myself.
Some bloggers may not be so excited about this decision, but I believe it is monumental in a positive way for online journalism. The fact that the FTC has deemed this decision necessary supports the fact that blogging is a viable medium with the means to influence readers. As the integrity of writers is kept in check, we can only expect to see the credibility of bloggers to expand, and the reliance on on-line media to grow with it.
What an exciting judgment!
For more information on this decision, which also will require testimonials about products and services to more accurately reflect typical results, please visit the Associated Press story here.
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