Franklin
County
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Infomercials
What looks and sounds like a TV show – but isn’t? Probably an
advertisement called an infomercial. There’s nothing illegal about
infomercials but it’s important to remember that product claims are
those of the advertiser. They are not objective or independent evaluations
of the product. The Federal Trade Commission investigates infomercials
that do not disclose their true advertising nature or that make deceptive
claims about products.
Be careful in evaluating health claims or “get rich quick”
claims in infomercials. These ads often promise great results with little
effort or risk.
Be aware that celebrities and “experts” who endorse a product
are often being paid by the advertiser. Consumers from the studio audience
are often pre-selected by the advertiser as well.
If you decide to purchase a product advertised on an infomercial,
the company should ship your order within the time stated or contact you
if they can’t. If you use your credit card to pay for purchases, the
Fair Credit Billing Act protects you.
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Franklin County University of Missouri Extension Center
FranklinCo@missouri.edu Last revised: 08/21/08 |
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