Misleading advertising
Also called: Misleading advertisement, False advertising · Topic: Consumer Rights and Consumer Protection · NCERT: Class 10, Ch 5 "Consumer Rights"
Meaning
Misleading advertising means spreading false or exaggerated information through the media to attract buyers. It exploits consumers because buyers cannot easily check a seller's claims. The Consumer Protection Act 2019 now defines "misleading advertisement" in law. The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) can fine a manufacturer or endorser up to ₹10 lakh, and up to ₹50 lakh for a repeat offence. It can also bar endorsers from endorsing for up to 1 year, or 3 years for a repeat offence.
Example
For years, a company sold powdered baby milk around the world as "the most scientific product", better than mother's milk. It took years of struggle to make the company admit the claim was false. Later, India's Infant Milk Substitutes Act 1992 banned the promotion of baby food.
Don't confuse with
- ASCI (Advertising Standards Council of India): ASCI is the advertising industry's own voluntary code from 1985. The CCPA is a statutory regulator, which means it was set up by law and can impose penalties.