Influencers in the EU who have failed to declared profits made through advertising may be faced with penalties after the European Commission and 22 national authorities with the support of the Consumer Protection Cooperation Network conducted a sweep.
More specifically, a Commission sweep carried out from Oct. 27 to Nov. 30, 2023 which scrutinized posts from 576 influencers across major social media platforms found that a staggering 97% of influencers – including 20 Greeks – featured commercial content but only 20% consistently acknowledged it as advertising.
Other key findings of the EU-wide investigation include:
- 78% of influencers engaged in commercial activities, but only 36% were registered traders
- 30% did not provide company details in their posts
- 38% did not use platform labels to disclose commercial content appropriately
- 40% of influencers failed to maintain visible disclosure throughout their commercial communication
- 40% promoted their own products without consistent advertising disclosure
- most online influencer activity scrutinized concerned fashion, lifestyle, and beauty sectors
- 44% of influencers operated personal websites, many of which facilitated direct sales.
Following the investigation, 358 influencers, including 20 in Greece, will be subject to further investigation by national authorities. In Greece, the Development Ministry and the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) will request compliance.
The Commission stresses that the findings highlight the need for clear legislation to safeguard consumers in the digital sphere. The forthcoming Digital Services Act will mandate disclosure of commercial communications, ensuring accountability across online platforms.
Source: tovima.com
στο Google News και μάθετε πρώτοι όλες τις ειδήσειςLatest News
RES: Large Companies Buying PPAs in Greece
Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) are long-term contracts between renewable energy producers and large corporations seeking to secure electricity at stable prices in a sustainable manner.
School Closures, Ships Docked Amid Bad Weather in Greece
Severe weather in Greece causes school closures and sailing bans. Strong winds, snowfall, and icy conditions disrupt daily life and travel on Tuesday.
Greece to Proceed with Issuance of 10-Year Bond
Regarding Greece's public debt the Agency forecasts that it will continue its downward trend, recording a total reduction of around 56%.
Labor Shortage in Greece: Vacant Job Positions Costing the Economy Millions
Data show that specific sectors are facing particular challenges in filling job positions, with the primary sector struggling to find working hands.
e-EFKA: “Thaleia” Answers Policyholders’ Questions
It is a service provided by the organization, aimed at enhancing the experience for individuals with special needs.
PM Mitsotakis Outlines 2025 Goals for Growth and National Interests
"The government’s work will remain intense and multifaceted, so that day by day, something changes and the lives of all citizens become better," the prime minister stated
Tender for Repairs on Athens Olympic Stadium’s (OAKA) Iconic Roof
Tender for OAKA project, which is expected to exceed 78 million euros, stipulates that repairs, maintenance must be conducted while venue remains open for events
Louis-Dreyfus Family Eyes 21% Stake in Thessaloniki Port
The newly created Amsterdam-based LeonidsPort company has submitted a voluntary public offer for 21%
EUIPO Throws Out Turkaegean Trademark
The trademark had been filed by the Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA) in 2021 and immediately generated heated opposition by Athens
Economic Sentiment Indicator in Greece Drops Slightly in Dec.
The data revealed that the primary drivers of the slight drop were the industrial and retail trade sectors. Conversely, construction and consumer confidence improved.
