Topic: deceptive advertising
-
Freecash App: Does It Really Pay for TikTok Scrolling?
The Freecash app surged in popularity by misleadingly advertising that users could get paid for scrolling TikTok, but it actually pays for completing specific in-game tasks in mobile games, not for passive social media use. The app operates as an advertising platform for game developers, who pay ...
Read More » -
FTC Says ‘Creepy’ Ad Listening Tool Failed to Work
The FTC settled with Cox Media Group, MindSift LLC, and 1010 Digital Works for nearly $1 million over allegations they falsely claimed their "Active Listening" service could target ads using audio from consumers' smart devices without proper consent. The FTC found the service was actually just re...
Read More » -
FTC Sues Ticketmaster Over Illegal Broker Coordination
The FTC is suing Ticketmaster for allegedly coordinating illegally with ticket brokers to manipulate the market and harm consumers, marking a major push for fairness in the ticketing industry. Ticketmaster is accused of allowing brokers to bypass purchase limits, enabling mass buying and resellin...
Read More » -
Judge Rules Tesla Misled Buyers on Self-Driving Tech
A California judge ruled Tesla's marketing of its Autopilot and Full Self-Driving systems is misleading, and the state's DMV has adopted this ruling, threatening a 30-day sales license suspension if advertising is not corrected. The DMV found Tesla's product names violate state law by implying a ...
Read More » -
Google to label AI-created ads when disclosed by advertisers
Google is launching a new feature that labels AI-generated ads on Search, YouTube, and Google Discover, accessible via the "My Ad Center" panel, though it relies on voluntary disclosure from advertisers using third-party tools. The policy expands beyond election-related ads to commercial advertis...
Read More » -
Google Cracks Down on Fraudulent Phone Numbers in Ads
Google is updating its policy to ban phone numbers linked to fraud or prior violations, effective December 10, 2025, to improve user safety and reduce misleading ads. Enforcement will phase in over eight weeks, targeting deceptive practices in industries like tech support scams and lead generatio...
Read More »