Purplebricks saving claim banned for substantiation failings
The ASA clears the online estate agent’s “You could save thousands” claim, but not their “£4,158 average customer saving”. Ben Poole investigates why.
All Articles in Consumer protection
ASA challenges Sainsbury’s use of “Participating stores only”
A consumer was unable to find a participating Sainsbury’s store to take advantage of a voucher promotion. Had Sainsbury’s adequately communicated the significant conditions for the promotion? Barney Sich reports.
Alternative therapy provider prosecuted for “misleading advertising claims”
After two upheld adjudications in 2012, the “toothless” ASA has the last laugh. Ben Poole reports.
Glossy “Fine Wines” brochure leads to 3 year sentence
Solicitor Michael Lloyd Wilson operated a wine investment scheme through “Global Wine Investments” which used a glossy brochure and duped investors out of £360,000. Barney Sich reports on the ensuing prosecution.
ICO imposes £180,000 and £250,000 fines on telemarketers
The UK data regulator continues its enforcement campaign against nuisance callers, this time with substantial fines imposed on Advanced VOIP Solutions Ltd and Check Point Claims. Chloe Dumoulin-Richet reports.
Charles Tyrwhitt, Sports Direct and Victoria Plum savings claims probed
Price claims continue to occupy the Advertising Standards Authority with campaigns by three big brands under the spotlight in June. Mike Ahyow reports.
Cloud storage service providers under the microscope
Following some negative reports from consumers, the Competition and Markets Authority has reviewed the cloud storage services sector for compliance with consumer protection laws. Georgina Graham reports.
Bird’s Eye ad banned for exaggerating size of portions
The ASA received a complaint that a TV ad for Bird’s Eye “Stir your senses” ready-made meals showed bulked-up portions and was therefore misleading. Daisy Jones reports.
France launches new “do not call” list
The BLOCTEL list has been launched in France. Users can register their landline or mobile numbers to not receive marketing calls. How does this differ from the Pacitel list introduced in 2011? Vincent le Bars of Osborne Clarke Paris reports.
New proposals to boost EU e-commerce
To help unlock pan EU e-commerce, the European Commission has launched a package of proposals. Included are geo-blocking, parcel delivery pricing and greater powers for national authorities to enforce consumer rights. Stefania Grosso reports.
Ofcom launches new mobile nuisance call opt-out
The UK’s “do not call” list enabling users to opt out of nuisance calls is available for mobile as well as landline numbers. Now Ofcom has acted to raise awareness of this and increase mobile registrations. Chloe Dumoulin-Richet reports.
Direct marketing opt-in threat in Digital Economy Bill
The recent Queen’s Speech was criticised as lightweight. But lurking within was a harbinger of potential doom for the UK’s marketers in the form of a threat of an opt-in regime for cold calls. Georgina Graham reports.
