No Fibbing! Misleading Advertising Rules for Small Business
LYNNIE VERSION
Would you like to read this article in more grown-up words, still easy to understand? Jump here.
Hi! I’m Lynnie! Today I’m telling you about misleading advertising. That means ads that fib!
Every business wants its stuff to look nice. That’s okay! But there’s a clear line between showing your stuff nicely and tricking people.
What is misleading advertising?
Safety online also means protecting others. And one big rule is: no misleading ads. That’s when a business says false or tricky things about its products, so people buy them.
Countries all over the world have laws against it.
Examples:
- Saying a product can do something it can’t.
- Showing it looking WAY better in ads than in real life.
- Hiding important price details, or extra costs.
- Saying it works way better than it does.
Clear labels!
Always be clear:
- If a brand paid you to make content, mark it “Ad” or “Partnership.”
- If a link gives you thank-you money, tell people it’s an affiliate link. Even if it costs them nothing extra!
And remember: even without a paid ad, tricky claims on your profile or website are still against the rules. Being a small business doesn’t mean you can get away with it! Focus on making good things that don’t need fibs.
Honest is good business
Honest descriptions mean fewer returns, fewer complaints and better reviews. Customers who get what they expected come back, and tell their friends! In the long run, being honest is one of the best marketing tricks there is.
Checking facts
Search engines and AI helpers like ChatGPT, Gemini and Claude help us learn new things super fast. That’s amazing! But here’s the important part.
Anything you post for people to learn from has to be fact-checked. And fact-checking doesn’t mean asking a search engine the same question again! Just because something is online doesn’t mean it’s true. And AI can say wrong things in a super sure voice.
Two steps, at least:
- Check good sources. Like official websites, science studies, or news that millions of people trust. Not just a few people’s opinions.
- Say it’s your view. Even with a good source, say “this is what I think, based on this source” or “based on my experience.” Don’t say it like it’s the one and only truth.
Step two protects you, and people who might make big decisions based on what you say.
Pick a niche you love learning about
Here’s a smart trick to need less fact-checking: pick a topic you really love researching! When you know a lot about something, you make fewer mistakes. And you spot wrong information faster.
Quick self-check
Before you post an ad or product description, ask:
- Would a customer feel the product matches the description when it arrives?
- Can people clearly see ALL the costs, including shipping?
- Is every sponsored post and affiliate link labeled?
All yes? You’re on safe ground!
Honest doesn’t cost more
Honest marketing doesn’t cost more! Clear descriptions and nice photos cost nothing extra.
You can also be trustworthy and honest without showing your face.
What’s next?
The next article finishes the safety lesson, with a reminder about people who might be more fragile. The whole lesson is in the book on our products page. Want a grown-up to help write honest descriptions? Go to our services page.
What grown-ups usually ask (and I answer)
What is misleading advertising?
Saying false or tricky things about your products so people buy them.
Do the rules count for small businesses?
Yes! Size doesn’t matter. Your profile and website count too.
How do I label a sponsored post or affiliate link?
Say “Ad” or “Partnership,” and tell people when a link gives you thank-you money.
How do I fact-check?
Check good sources, and say it’s your view.
Can I trust AI for facts?
Only as a start. Always check important facts.
Where can I get help if I don’t have much money?
Lynnaider shows you how to start each of the ten ways for free, or for very, very little money. You’d be surprised! And a free robot helper called Lynnaider Compass helps you step by step!
Are there step-by-step lessons for starting each of the ten ways cheaply?
Maybe! If lots of people want them. Join the waitlist and you’ll know first.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and should not be regarded as legal, tax, or business advice. Pursuing an online business does not guarantee income; results depend on many factors including the business environment, individual effort, skills, and consistency. Some links on this site may allow Lynnaider to earn a commission at no additional cost to the reader.
