FTC settles complaint about fake App Store reviews

Written by Gary McArthur Sunday, 29 August 2010 19:06

Reverb Communications Inc, a public relations agency hired by video game developers, will settle (USA) Federal Trade Commission charges that it engaged in deceptive advertising by having employees pose as ordinary consumers posting game reviews at the iTunes Store, and not disclosing that the reviews came from paid employees working on behalf of the developers.

“Companies, including public relations firms involved in online marketing, need to abide by long-held principles of truth in advertising,” said Mary Engle, Director of the FTC’s Division of Advertising Practices. “Advertisers should not pass themselves off as ordinary consumers touting a product, and endorsers should make it clear when they have financial connections to sellers."

So just what is required of Reverb Communications Inc, and its sole owner, in settling the complaint? Head over to the FTC site for the details.