tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-42949815939576450472024-03-13T17:59:33.992-04:00Electronic Retailing Self-Regulation ProgramERSP's mission is to enhance consumer confidence in electronic retailing. ERSP inquires about the evidentiary support that a marketer possesses for product claims and determines whether the marketer has provided a reasonable basis for the representations disseminated in direct response advertising.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger75125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4294981593957645047.post-29258219460599754962015-07-23T12:29:00.002-04:002015-07-23T12:29:30.465-04:00ERSP Recommends Intellibiz Modify Certain Claims for Real Estate Education Program; Company Agrees to Do So<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The Electronic Retailing Self-Regulation Program (ERSP) has recommended that Intellibiz modify or discontinue certain claims for the “Simple Man’s Guide to Real Estate” investing course.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">ERSP is an investigative unit of the advertising industry’s system of self-regulation and is administered by the Council of Better Business Bureaus, Inc. The marketer’s advertising came to the attention of ERSP through an anonymous competitor challenge. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">ERSP reviewed online advertising claims for the real estate investing course, including:</span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">"Give me 30 minutes and I guarantee I can teach anyone how to make at least $5,000 in 14 days" - Bill Vaughn</span></i></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">“Earn a minimum of $100,000 each and every year you use our program, working only part-time, or we will send you a check for double the purchase price, no questions asked.”</span></i></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">“The only COMPLETE Real Estate Investor Training Program Outperforming every other real estate investing course since 1989”</span></i></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">“Best guarantee in the business!”</span></i></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">“Homero Guerrero pocketed this certified check for $10,000 in less than 2 weeks (wholesaling)”</span></i></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">“Angela Pockets $150,000 On First Deal”</span></i></span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">ERSP was also concerned about the omission of clear and conspicuous disclosures concerning the typical results consumers can generally expect to achieve.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Although ERSP was not troubled by claims describing the general performance methods included in the advertised real estate investment program, ERSP found that the specific quantified earnings created real income expectations for consumers that required substantiation and could not be adequately qualified by a single disclosure stating, “Results may vary from one transaction to another.”</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">In response to ERSP’s initial inquiry, the marketer addressed certain concerns raised by ERSP. ERSP recommended that the marketer discontinue earnings and performance claims presented in a comparative context, although ERSP did agree with IntelliBiz that its “Best guarantee in the business!” claim would be interpreted by consumers as statement of puffery.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Finally, ERSP recommended that the marketer clearly and conspicuously disclose additional qualifying information when communicating earnings representations using consumer testimonials to provide more clarity to consumers regarding generally expected results.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The company, in its marketer’s statement, said that it is “<i>in the process of substantially revising our advertising and continue to improve our consumer messaging to be as truthful, accurate, clear and conspicuous as possible</i>.”</span><br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4294981593957645047.post-83517765598657153812015-06-26T15:37:00.001-04:002015-06-26T15:37:31.254-04:00ERSP Recommends Rich Dad Education, Inc. Modify Certain Testimonials Claims for Real Estate Education Program<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The Electronic Retailing Self-Regulation Program (ERSP) has recommended that Rich Dad Education, Inc., modify or discontinue certain claims made in student testimonials featured at the Rich Dad Education website. <br /><br />ERSP is an investigative unit of the advertising industry’s system of self-regulation and is administered by the Council of Better Business Bureaus, Inc. The marketer’s advertising came to the attention of ERSP through an anonymous competitor challenge. <br /><br />ERSP reviewed advertising claims that included: </span></span><br />
<ul>
<li><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">“Rich Dad Education's Free Workshops are eye-opening, 2-hour sessions with the definite potential to change your life for the better!”</span></span></i></li>
<li><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">"FinFreedomBound – Profit: $72,500”</span></span></i></li>
<li><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">“WholesalePro – Profit: $20,383”</span></span></i></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />ERSP also reviewed claims made during free live seminar events, including:</span></span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Claims that the presenter would teach consumers how to do a wholesale real estate deal and make $10,000 in the next 60 days</span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />ERSP was primarily concerned with the specific quantified profits earned by former and current students that are being featured on the “Real Estate Deals” tab of the website. ERSP noted that there appear to be two different categories of deals – “Deals of the Month” and “Most Recent Deals.” The only apparent distinction between the two categories is that the “Most Recent Deals” contains an asterisk that leads to a disclosure at the bottom of the webpage. With respect to the “Deals of the Month” category, there is no apparent accompanying disclosure language to indicate whether or not these particular results are typical, and, if not, a disclosure of the amount of money they may expect to earn from using the program.<br /><br />In general, when reviewing direct response marketing in the real estate investing industry, ERSP takes a broad approach and looks at the messages communicated as a whole, across all medium of marketing. Generally, the key issue before ERSP in this particular product category is whether the advertising at issue conveys specific express or implied earnings expectations to consumers, aside from the general message that they could earn money using the techniques outlines by the program. <br /><br />In this instance, ERSP noted its concern about the lack of any clear and conspicuous disclosures concerning the typical results consumers can generally expect to achieve from using the product.<br />ERSP as well determined that the performance claims that formed the basis of inquiry did not communicate any specific express earnings expectations for consumers besides the general message that they can earn money using the techniques taught at the Rich Dad Education program. <br /><br />ERSP acknowledged that the marketer possesses survey results to demonstrate that students of Rich Dad do indeed experience success. However, ERSP noted that the potential for consumer uncertainty exists because the disclosure in the advertisement notes that the stated results are predicated on the purchase of advanced training courses and this may not be apparent to a consumer who is simply interested in the free live event and the possibility of earning supplemental income.<br /><br />ERSP recommended that the marketer refrain from making quantified earnings claims without clearly and conspicuously disclosing what students of the program can typically expect to earn. ERSP additionally recommended that Rich Dad discontinue the use of such unverified testimonial claims in its advertising material and at free live seminars.<br /><br />The company, in its marketer’s statement, said that it “takes seriously our obligations to our students and the consuming public and strive to be honest, open, and in compliance with our legal obligations” and that it “has removed the ‘Real Deal from Real Estate Investors in Real Estate’ webpage from its website for reasons independent of ASRC’s Review and it is our present intention not to host such a page on our website in the future whereby it could be construed that Rich Dad Education was making implied claims regarding the amount of monetary success achievable by our students without ensuring that all appropriate disclaimers were provided.”<br /></span></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4294981593957645047.post-42897610584463403442015-06-15T15:31:00.000-04:002015-06-22T15:32:16.387-04:00ERSP Finds Guthy-Renker Can Support Performance Claims for “Cold Plasma Sub-D”<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">The Electronic Retailing Self-Regulation Program (ERSP) has determined
that Guthy-Renker can support performance claims for Cold Plasma Sub-D, a
topical cream intended to sculpt and tighten the appearance of skin along the
chin and jawline.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">ERSP is an investigative unit of the advertising industry’s
system of self-regulation and is administered by the Council of Better Business
Bureaus. The marketer’s advertising came to the attention of ERSP pursuant to
its ongoing monitoring program.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">ERSP reviewed broadcast and online advertising
claims for Cold Plasma Sub-D, including:<span> </span></span></span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>“Results
you can expect to see [are]: Visibly tightening of the appearance of sagging,
loose skin and improved appearance of double chin”</i></span></span>
</li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>“Visibly
more crisp appearance of the chin and jawline, imparting an overall more
youthful looking face"</i><span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>“Visibly
improved appearance of lines and wrinkles on the neck and décolletage with
noticeable improvement in overall skin texture</i>”<span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>“Sub-D is
specifically formulated for the area called the submandibular. Often neglected,
the skin in this area has unique needs and Cold Plasma Sub-D helps tackle the
most common signs of aging on the chin, jawline, neck, and décolleté."</i><span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span></span><i>“I saw
results within a week.”</i><span></span></span></span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">As support for the performance and
establishment claims at issue, the marketer submitted the results of consumer
usage studies conducted on the product itself. Guthy-Renker also provided ERSP
with several articles on the benefits of the individual ingredients in Cold
Plasma Sub-D contained in the product formulation as support for its position.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">While ERSP did conclude that, based upon
the collective materials in the case record, the marketer provided adequate
support for its general performance claim that specified the specific benefits
from using Cold Plasma Sub-D, ERSP determined that it would be material for
consumers to know that the claim was based on a consumer usage study and,
accordingly, this information should be disclosed conspicuously, in close
proximity to the claim.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>ERSP noted Guthy-Renker’s voluntary
modifications to the two consumer testimonials at issue in the subject matter
(“After six weeks, my jawline appeared more defined and the sagging, loose skin
under my chin is tighter and has a more youthful appearance" and “I saw
results within a week.”). Although the marketer maintained that the depiction
of product performance after one week was not a core claim in the advertising,
ERSP did not agree. It was concluded that the communication of product
performance that can be typically expected by consumers is a fundamental and
pivotal component of the Cold Plasma Sub-D advertising. ERSP also determined
that the marketer’s commitment to voluntarily modify the consumer testimonial
attesting to the expected results “<i>within
a week” </i>of using Cold Plasma Sub-D to more clearly communicate the
limitations of the consumer usage study was warranted.</span> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">The company, in its marketer’s statement, said, “Guthy-Renker
is very pleased with ERSP’s determination that all of the challenged claims for
Cold Plasma Sub-D are substantiated, and that the changes Guthy-Renker
voluntarily agreed to make in relation to certain disclaimers are appropriate.
Guthy-Renker is a long-time supporter of the self-regulatory process and
appreciates ERSP’s review.”</span></span></div>
<br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4294981593957645047.post-86606232627460038292015-05-11T15:29:00.000-04:002015-06-22T15:30:05.558-04:00ERSP Finds La Lumiere Can Support Certain Claims for ‘illuMask’ Acne Treatment, Recommends Marketer Modify Certain Claims<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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The Electronic Retailing Self-Regulation Program (ERSP) has determined
that La Lumiere, LLC, can support performance claims for illuMask, a device
intended to help treat acne. However, ERSP recommended that the marketer clarify
its money-back guarantee claims.<br />
<br />
ERSP is an investigative unit of the advertising industry’s
system of self-regulation and is administered by the Council of Better Business
Bureaus. The marketer’s advertising came to the attention of ERSP pursuant to
its ongoing monitoring program.<br />
<br />
ERSP reviewed broadcast and online advertising
claims for illuMask, including:<br />
<ul>
<li><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Get clear
and stay clear."</i></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"></span></span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Just …put
on the mask and get clear.”</i></li>
<li><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Get a
clearer complexion and fewer breakouts with the illuMask Anti-Acne Light
Therapy Mask.”</i></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"></span></span></span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Bringing
the Power of Light Therapy Home”</i></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"></span></span></span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Safe,
effective and effortless treatment for less than a dollar a day.”</i></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"></span></span></span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Blue
light energy kills the light sensitive P. acnes bacteria on and below the skin
surface while the red light boosts your natural skin cell turnover and healing
process to reduce swelling, inflammation, and redness.”</i><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">As support for the performance and
establishment claims at issue, the marketer provided ERSP with testing on the
product, evidence of its FDA 510(k) clearance, and information concerning the
effectiveness of red and blue light therapy. Following its review of the
evidence in the record, ERSP determined that the marketer </span><span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">supported its <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Get Clear. Stay Clear”</i> messages.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">ERSP reviewed two short-form commercials in
which money-back guarantee claims were made. In one version, the marketer
clearly presented its 30-day, money-back guarantee while the other presented
the guarantee as a 90-day guarantee appeared to be inconsistent with the
specific terms of the 30-day, money-back offer provided on the website.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">ERSP recommended
that the marketer reconcile the use of the two different guarantees that are
communicated in the broadcast advertising and include a disclosure that either
provides the specific terms of the money-back offer or directs consumers to the
illuMask website for the specific details.</span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The company, in its marketer’s statement, said, “La Lumiere
appreciates ERSP's review and confirmation of the illuMask claims.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>...<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>La
Lumiere is committed to improving people's lives by way of light therapy and
making this technology affordable and accessible to consumers everywhere.”</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4294981593957645047.post-79363508411604705442015-03-31T15:22:00.000-04:002015-06-22T15:23:51.194-04:00ERSP Recommends Nick Vertucci Real Estate Academy Modify Certain Claims for Real Estate Education Program; Company Agrees to Do So<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The Electronic Retailing Self-Regulation Program (ERSP) has recommended that Nick Vertucci Real Estate Academy modify or discontinue certain claims for the Nick Vertucci Real Estate Academy education program.<br /><br />ERSP is an investigative unit of the advertising industry’s system of self-regulation and is administered by the Council of Better Business Bureaus, Inc. The marketer’s advertising came to the attention of ERSP through an anonymous competitor challenge. <br /><br />ERSP reviewed online advertising claims for the affiliate marketing, real estate investing program, including: </span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">“Over the last two years, his team has flipped over 800 properties across the country. They're coming to your city offering free training & information on how to make serious money in today's real estate market!”</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">“specific strategies in flipping houses to make quick cash”</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">“Interested in earning extra money in real estate? Want to learn how to make $30,000 in 30 days? Come to Nick's upcoming FREE real estate training workshop in a nearby city and learn how to get in, get out, and GET PAID!”</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">“…make $10,000 to $40,000 per deal in your spare time without using any of your own money.”</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">“James & Minke: 3 Properties Purchased; $33,112 Net Cash Flow 22% in Appreciation”</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">ERSP reviewed advertising claims made in radio advertising and at two of advertiser’s websites that promoted Nick Vertucci as a real estate investment expert who could teach customers how to make money with real estate investing through courses and training.<br /><br />ERSP noted the marketer’s willingness to cooperate and participate in the self-regulatory process. <br /><br />However, ERSP was concerned with representations regarding the implication that customers of the Nick Vertucci Real Estate Academy would have access to “up to $1,000,000” in “pre-approved funding.” ERSP recommended that the marketer modify the claim to disclose whether material terms and conditions that would affect the ability to obtain such funding.<br /><br />Further, ERSP recommended the marketer discontinue performance claims that customers could earn money quickly and easily. While ERSP recognizes that it is possible to earn money in real estate investing, like any other wealth creation enterprise, success is typically the result of hard work and a time commitment. As such, advertisers should be careful not to communicate, through express or implied claims, that earning money using a product or service is effortless, easy and/or simple<br /><br />ERSP acknowledged the marketer’s pledge to modify all earnings claims, but noted that the marketer should, in future advertising, refrain from making earnings claims until it reliable data that will support references to the amount of money that consumers may typically earn using the product.<br /><br />ERSP noted that the marketer did not provide any evidence regarding the amount of money that students of Nick Vertucci have earned. ERSP does not dispute that the success stories depicted in the advertising are from real people with actual success stories. However, ERSP recommended that such testimonials be accompanied by clear and conspicuous language qualifying the claims with disclosures of typicality. <br /><br />Finally, ERSP acknowledged the marketer’s pledge to add clear and conspicuous disclosures that can be read along with each testimonial, in order to alleviate the potential confusion about the typical results that consumers can generally expect to achieve. <br /><br />The company, in its marketer’s statement, said that it “agrees with ERSP's recommendations, pledges to implement those recommendations and will implement procedures to ensure compliance with all federal, state and local laws, regulations, industry guidelines and best industry practices.”</span><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4294981593957645047.post-54593791769957041452015-03-17T15:20:00.000-04:002015-06-22T15:21:22.454-04:00ERSP Recommends Armando Montelongo Seminars Modify Certain Claims for Real Estate Education Program; Company Agrees to Do So<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The Electronic Retailing Self-Regulation Program (ERSP) has recommended that Armando Montelongo Seminars modify or discontinue certain claims for the Armando Montelongo Real Estate Education program.<br /><br />ERSP is an investigative unit of the advertising industry’s system of self-regulation and is administered by the Council of Better Business Bureaus, Inc. The marketer’s advertising came to the attention of ERSP through an anonymous competitor challenge. <br /><br />ERSP reviewed online advertising claims for the real estate investing program, including:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">“Learn how you can start making money 'Flipping Houses' right here in your own back yard.”</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">“See why people, just like you, are making money and having success using Armando's investing strategies, techniques, and systems.”</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">“Learn from the #1 Education Company in the World”</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">“Be one of the first 50 people to register and attend Armando's Mega Millionaire Event to receive a chance to win a $5,000 check* from Armando himself! Also receive your own VIP CASH FLOW PACKAGE and SOCIAL MIXER with Armando's team of real estate experts, a $500 Value absolutely FREE, just for attending!” and “When you attend your name will be entered into a drawing for a $5,000 dollar check. There are no strings and no catches. This drawing is something we are doing as a monthly customer appreciation celebration.”</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">“The education I received through Armando’s system was more valuable than my college education. I made over $45,000 in profit on my first flip.” [Amir H]</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">“I successfully flipped my first property, with no prior real estate experience after learning Armando’s system and I made a profit over $34,000 on my first flip.” [Janie G]</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">ERSP also reviewed claims made during free live seminar events, including:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">“[Armando will] guarantee in writing you will make money by using Armando’s program.”</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Claims that Armando flipped 138 houses in his first 3 years in the real estate industry</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />The marketer’s websites (www.armandolive.com and www.armandomontelongo.com) and program infomercials explain that Armando Montelongo is a house flipper, entrepreneur, and motivational speaker.<br /><br />As a preliminary matter, ERSP noted that the marketer revised a number of claims for AM Real Estate Education during the course of the inquiry. <br /><br />The key issue before ERSP was whether the advertising at issue conveyed specific express or implied earnings expectations to consumers, aside from the general message that they could earn money using the techniques outlines by the program. ERSP noted its concern about the lack of any clear and conspicuous disclosures concerning the typical results consumers can generally expect to achieve from using the product.<br /><br />Regarding earnings claims communicated by consumer testimonials used in the advertising, ERSP recommended that the marketer clearly and conspicuously, and in close proximity to the claims, provide consumers with some indication of the range or the average amount of money that can be generally earned based upon the scenario described in the testimonial. <br /><br />ERSP noted in its decision that the marketer denied that the following information was communicated during a live seminar: </span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">“[Armando will] guarantee in writing you will make money by using Armando’s program.”</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Claims that Armando flipped 138 houses in his first 3 years in the real estate industry.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">ERSP noted that representations communicated by a speaker during a live seminar are often unscripted and difficult to document. Further, without evaluating claims in the context in which they are presented, it is difficult to properly assess the messages communicated to consumers. <br /><br />Nevertheless, ERSP emphasized that any claims that detail Armando Montelongo’s success in using the same techniques he is selling to consumers could be understood to mean that consumers can typically expect the same results. If the results are not typical, ERSP noted, the burden is on the advertiser to disclose what result could typically be expected. </span><br />The company, in its marketer’s statement, said that it “has already incorporated many of ERSP’s suggested practices and has committed to evaluate its marketing practices in light of the ERSP review going forward.”Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4294981593957645047.post-29471608116518424522015-02-06T15:26:00.000-05:002015-06-22T15:27:27.603-04:00ERSP Reviews Advertising for ‘Curamin,’ Recommends Marketer Modify or Discontinue Certain Claims<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">The Electronic Retailing Self-Regulation Program (ERSP) has recommended
that EuroPharma, Inc. modify or discontinue certain advertising claims for Curamin,
a dietary supplement intended to treat pain and inflammation.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">ERSP is an investigative unit of the advertising industry’s
system of self-regulation and is administered by the Council of Better Business
Bureaus. The marketer’s advertising came to the attention of ERSP pursuant to an
anonymous competitive challenge.</span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpLast" style="vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">ERSP reviewed online advertising claims
for Curamin, including:</span></span></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>“Curamin
contains a super-absorption curcumin called BCM-95 that can be up to 10 times
stronger than plain curcumin products."</i></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>“Blending
four powerful, effective and clinically proven ingredients into one
award-winning product provides an unprecedented level of natural relief."</i></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>“Curamin
contains a super-absorption curcumin called BCM-95 that can be up to 10 times
stronger than plain curcumin products.” </i>and<i> “This form of high-absorption curcumin is micronized and re-blended
with the essential oil of turmeric for up
to 10 times the absorption and greater blood retention time at
meaningful levels compared to standard 95% curcumin extracts."</i></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>“Features
clinically proven BCM-95 bioavailable curcumin”</i></span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span></span></span></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>ERSP also considered whether EuroPharma
failed to adequately inform consumers of the material connection between
EuroPharma and the website TerryTalksNutrition.com, which features Terry
Lemerond, a founder and president of EuroPharma.</span> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">During
the course of the inquiry, the marketer informed ERSP that it voluntarily
discontinued a number of the claims that were at issue in the inquiry, such as
“<i>Most effective curcumin available</i>.”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">The
marketer asserted that the TerryTalksNutrition site is a third-party,
educational website containing information relating to health and nutrition and
that the content is based on the opinions and experience of Mr. <span>Lemerond.</span> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">EuroPharma
said that as a demonstration of good faith, future references on the site will
be made only to ingredients and not specific formulas. EuroPharma also
explained that it had removed links from the blog to EuroPharmaUSA.com and
Curamin.com.<span> </span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>In considering the remaining establishment
claims at issue, the marketer submitted several studies on the key ingredients found
in Curamin. ERSP also looked to the National Advertising Division’s (NAD)
previous self-regulatory inquiry concerning Curamin as guidance</span>. As
noted by NAD, the marketer’s evidence did adequately demonstrate that Curamin
provides joint health benefits, including some relief from the pain associated
with osteoarthritis.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Based upon the results of the scientific studies provided by
EuroPharma to ERSP as well as the determinations reached by NAD, ERSP
determined that EuroPharma provided sufficient support for the establishment
claims for Curamin that were communicated in a non-quantified context.<span> </span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>However, ERSP recommended that the
quantified claims regarding the comparative strength and absorption of the
curcumin ingredient in Curamin be discontinued, while noting that the
marketer’s evidence would be sufficient to support general efficacy claims
regarding the ingredient’s comparative absorption benefits.</span> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">The company, in its marketer’s statement, said, “EuroPharma
is pleased that ERSP carefully and thoughtfully considered the evidence
submitted in support of the claims made for Curamin. We have made modifications
to our website as recommended by ERSP and will follow ERSP’s suggestions in
future advertising claims for this product. We thank ERSP for their willingness
to discuss the advertising claims for Curamin in an open and cooperative
manner. EuroPharma remains committed to truthful and accurate advertising.”</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">
</span></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4294981593957645047.post-21540741989375454432014-12-23T15:20:00.000-05:002015-06-22T15:22:24.553-04:00ERSP Recommends Premier Care in Bathing Modify, Discontinue Certain Claims for Its Walk-In Baths<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
The Electronic Retailing Self-Regulation Program (ERSP) has recommended
that Premier Care in Bathing (“PCIB”) modify or discontinue certain advertising
claims for its walk-in bathtubs.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: .25in;">
ERSP is an investigative unit of the advertising industry’s
system of self-regulation and is administered by the Council of Better Business
Bureaus. The marketer’s advertising came to the attention of ERSP through a
competitive challenge filed by Safe Step Walk-In Tub Co.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: .25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpLast" style="mso-hyphenate: none; mso-layout-grid-align: none; punctuation-wrap: simple; tab-stops: -4.5pt .5in 1.0in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in 6.5in; text-autospace: none; vertical-align: baseline;">
ERSP reviewed broadcast, print, and
online advertising claims for PCIB, including:</div>
<ul>
<li><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“In fact,
while other manufacturers use harsh water jets that can carry bacteria and
damage or bruise your skin..."</i></li>
<li><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“America’s
leader in Walk-In Tubs"</i></li>
<li><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“The best
selling walk-in bath in America.”</i><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The challenger also expressed
concerns regarding the lack of a clear and conspicuous disclosure detailing the
financing offer and the claim that the offer is a special or limited time offer.<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Following its
review, ERSP found that the PCIB did not provide adequate substantiation for
the claim that “… other manufacturers use harsh water jets that can carry
bacteria and damage or bruise your skin...” and recommended that the marketer
either discontinue or modify the claim to avoid the possibility that consumers
would interpret the claim as a reference to all competitors in the marketplace.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">There was no
dispute, ERSP noted, that PCIB is the oldest walk-in bath tub company in the
industry and the first company to offer walk-in baths to US consumers. However,
ERSP found that the marketer’s evidence did not support the claims “America’s
leader in Walk-In Tubs” and “The best selling walk-in bath in America.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ERSP said nothing in its decision precludes the marketer from making a
claim that it is an industry leader – making it clear, for example, that
the claim is based upon PCIB’s history in the product category and does
not imply the claim is based on current sales data.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">ERSP also determined
that the marketer’s revised “$150 Per Month” financing offer appropriately disclosed
important material information, but remained concerned that the disclosure was
not adequately clear and conspicuous.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">ERSP found that
the marketer’s “special offer” claim was appropriately presented, but recommended
that because the period of availability of a “limited time” offer is material
to consumers, such information should be disclosed conspicuously in the
advertising.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">The company, in
its marketer’s statement, said, “… PCIB appreciates and respects the
self-regulatory process, is committed to truthful and accurate advertising, and
will adhere to ERSP's recommendations in future advertising.”</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4294981593957645047.post-10898770006946575442014-12-15T15:33:00.000-05:002015-06-22T15:34:19.361-04:00ERSP Refers Advertising for Plymouth Direct’s ‘BeActive’ Brace to FTC, FDA<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">The Electronic Retailing Self-Regulation Program (ERSP) has
announced it will refer direct-response advertising for the “BeActive Brace,”
marketed by Plymouth Direct Inc., to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the
Food and Drug Administration (FDA) after the marketer failed to agree to comply
with ERSP’s recommendations to modify or discontinue certain claims.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">ERSP is an investigative unit of the advertising industry’s
system of self-regulation and is administered by the Council of Better Business
Bureaus. <span>The marketer’s advertising
came to ERSP’s attention pursuant to an anonymous competitive challenge.</span> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Claims at issue in the initial inquiry included:</span></span></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span><span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-synthesis: weight style; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><i>“The point specific
pressure brace for fast effective sciatic back pain relief."</i></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>"Relieves
tension up the sciatic nerve with firm trigger point acupressure."</i></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>“Reduces both short
term and chronic sciatic back pain.”</i></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>"Helping you
live pain free & enjoy being active again.”</i></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span><span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-synthesis: weight style; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"></span></span><i>“You need BeActive,
the revolutionary new acupressure system that instantly helps ease discomfort
in your lower back, buttocks, and legs."</i></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span><span style="font-feature-settings: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-synthesis: weight style; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"></span></span><i>"You'll
instantly begin experiencing relief."</i></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span></span><i>"Back pain
often radiates from the lower back to the lower extremities, but apply BeActive
to the trigger point on the calf muscle to instantly relieve pain."</i></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>"The secret is
the acupoint pressure pad that gently compresses, alleviating pain at the
sciatic nerve and lower back for instant relief."</i><span style="color: black;"></span></span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">
</span></span><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>ERSP determined that the evidence in the
case record did not support claims indicating that the product would be
effective in providing relief from all sciatica conditions, particularly those
that originate in the upper extremities, and sciatica pain that is referred
from the two trigger points in the soleus muscle that are not stimulated by the
BeActive brace.</span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>ERSP also recommended that the claim that use of the product will
result in consumers being “<i>pain free</i>”
was not adequately substantiated and that </span>the marketer should
discontinue the claim “<em>Expensive
pain-relievers wear off, but BeActive is always there to deliver the pain
relief you need” </em>and the accompanying visual in future advertising
for BeActive.<span style="color: black;"> </span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">The company, in its marketer’s
statement, did not indicate that it would agree to modify or discontinue the
advertising as recommended by ERSP. Therefore, pursuant to section 3.1(D) of
the ERSP Policy and Procedures, this matter has been referred to the FDA and FTC.</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">
</span></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4294981593957645047.post-20887968216525422952014-11-20T15:15:00.000-05:002015-06-22T15:17:29.119-04:00ERSP Recommends Quest Nutrition Modify, Discontinue Certain Claims for Quest Protein Bars<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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The Electronic Retailing Self-Regulation Program (ERSP) has recommended
that Quest Nutrition modify or discontinue certain advertising claims for Quest
Protein Bars.<br />
<br />
ERSP is an investigative unit of the advertising industry’s
system of self-regulation and is administered by the Council of Better Business
Bureaus. The marketer’s advertising came to the attention of ERSP through an
anonymous competitive challenge.<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpLast" style="mso-hyphenate: none; mso-layout-grid-align: none; punctuation-wrap: simple; tab-stops: -4.5pt .5in 1.0in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in 6.5in; text-autospace: none; vertical-align: baseline;">
ERSP reviewed online advertising claims
for Quest Protein Bars, including:</div>
<ul>
<li><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“And the
last thing you want to do is throw that hard work away by eating other
nutrition bars or meal replacement bars that are little more than thinly
disguised candy.”</i></li>
<li><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“As most
people know, if you want to stay healthy, lose fat or build LEAN muscle, you
must control your carb intake. That's why we've worked so hard to create Quest
Bars with very few active carbs.”</i></li>
<li><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Quest
Bars will also curb your hunger more effectively than most foods. Because they
are packed with fiber, you'll find that they are very filling. The natural fats
and proteins will further keep your appetite satisfied for hours - making sure
that you can easily stay away from eating higher calorie, less nutritious fare.”</i></li>
<li><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Uniqueness”
</i>and “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">one-of-a-kind</i>” claims<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpLast" style="mso-hyphenate: none; mso-layout-grid-align: none; punctuation-wrap: simple; tab-stops: -4.5pt .5in 1.0in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in 6.5in; text-autospace: none; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">At the
outset of the inquiry, the marketer informed ERSP that several of the
advertising claims</span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> that were
the subject of the inquiry are currently the subject of pending litigation. As
such, ERSP </span>agreed that it was not appropriate to review those claims.</div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpLast" style="mso-hyphenate: none; mso-layout-grid-align: none; punctuation-wrap: simple; tab-stops: -4.5pt .5in 1.0in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in 6.5in; text-autospace: none; vertical-align: baseline;">
<br /></div>
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Moreover, the marketer voluntarily discontinued
several claims, including testimonials at issue in ERSP’s inquiry. <span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"> </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Regarding the claim <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“And the last thing you want to do is throw that hard work away by
eating other nutrition bars or meal replacement bars that are little more than
thinly disguised candy,”</i> ERSP recommended that the claim</span> <span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">be modified in future advertising in a way
that conveys a less broad, less categorical message to consumers regarding the
competitive products on the market.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-hyphenate: none; tab-stops: -4.5pt .5in 63.0pt 67.5pt 76.5pt 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in 6.5in;">
<br /></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">ERSP determined that the implication that
consumers will lose fat or build muscle simply by eating Quest bars would not
be considered a “core claim” in the advertising. However, ERSP noted that it
would be helpful for the marketer to </span>reinforce to consumers that
combining an effective diet and exercise regimen is the most effective method to
obtain meaningful weight loss and that Quest bars are intended to be used as an
adjunct to, and not as a substitute for, a dedicated diet and exercise regimen.<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-hyphenate: none; tab-stops: -4.5pt .5in 63.0pt 67.5pt 76.5pt 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in 6.5in;">
<br /></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">As support for its claim that “</span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Quest Bars will also curb your hunger more
effectively than most foods,</i>” Quest Nutrition provided ERSP with a
comparison of the fiber content of its protein bars to several common high-fiber
foods and other nutrition bars. Based on the comparative data, ERSP determined
that the marketer provided a reasonable basis for the claim.</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-hyphenate: none; tab-stops: -4.5pt .5in 63.0pt 67.5pt 76.5pt 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in 6.5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Finally,
after reviewing the evidence in the record, ERSP <span style="mso-bidi-font-family: TimesNewRomanPSMT; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">determined
that the marketer adequately substantiated its </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Uniqueness” </i>and “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">one-of-a-kind</i>”
claims.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The company, in its marketer’s statement, said, “We will
follow ESRP’s recommendations and revise one sentence and add two sentences in
our website for the sake of clarity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
are grateful to have participated in ESRP’s review and will continue in our
mission to provide high quality, nutritious products to our valued Quest family
as we strive for constant improvement in our lives and our products.”</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4294981593957645047.post-48504541425484832612014-10-29T15:13:00.000-04:002015-06-22T15:14:32.461-04:00ERSP Recommends Universal Commerce Modify Advertising for ‘Senior Mobile’ Cell Phone to Better Disclose Activation Fee<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
The Electronic Retailing Self-Regulation Program (ERSP) has recommended
that Universal Commerce modify certain advertising claims for Senior Mobile, a cell
phone designed for seniors, to better disclose that the free phone carries a
$97 activation fee.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: .25in;">
ERSP is an investigative unit of the advertising industry’s
system of self-regulation and is administered by the Council of Better Business
Bureaus. The marketer’s advertising came to the attention of ERSP pursuant to
its ongoing monitoring program.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: .25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpLast" style="mso-hyphenate: none; mso-layout-grid-align: none; punctuation-wrap: simple; tab-stops: -4.5pt .5in 1.0in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in 6.5in; text-autospace: none; vertical-align: baseline;">
ERSP reviewed print advertising claims
for Senior Mobile, including:</div>
<ul>
<li><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Public
set to get easy to use cell phones free"</i></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"></span></span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“New cell
phones aimed at keeping Texas residents safe are being given away free to
everyone who beats the 48 hour deadline to cover just the one-time activation
fee, but only those Texas area residents who call are also getting nationwide
coverage with no long distance charges, no contracts, no deposits and no
monthly bills”</i></li>
<li><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“The only
thing residents need to do is call the Toll Free Hotline before the 48-hour
order deadline ends to cover just a one-time activation fee to instantly be
awarded the new Senior Mobile cell phone for free.”</i></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"></span></span></span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“U.S.
Gov’t urges citizens to carry cell phones”</i><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"></span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">Senior Mobile is
a cell phone designed for seniors that includes an </span>“E” button, a
preprogrammed button which allows consumers to make a one-touch call to an
emergency dispatch center, instead of dialing 9-1-1.<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"> </span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">ERSP determined</span> that the marketer
provided a reasonable basis for its position that the advertising has been
appropriately identified as a paid advertisement.<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"> </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">The “free” offer for Senior Mobile is
reinforced several times in the advertisement. While ERSP did not dispute that
the cell phone itself is free, it found that the $97 activation fee was a
material condition of the offer. As such, ERSP recommended Universal Commerce clearly
and conspicuously disclose material information about the activation and shipping
costs in the context of the advertising at issue as it pertains to the “free”
offer.</span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The company, in its marketer’s statement, said, “<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Universal Commerce, LLC, which is committed
to ensuring that its advertising is truthful, accurate, and substantiated,
appreciates the opportunity to participate in the Electronic Retailing
Self-Regulation Program self-regulatory process … While we disagree with ERSP's
conclusion that the multiple disclosures in the advertisement that consumers must
pay a $97 activation fee to obtain the phone are not sufficiently clear and conspicuous,
Universal Commerce will take ERSP's suggestions into consideration in its
future advertisements.”</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4294981593957645047.post-66505984264823283942014-08-28T16:01:00.000-04:002014-09-12T16:01:46.586-04:00ERSP Recommends Obesity Research Institute Modify, Discontinue Certain Claims for Lipozene<div class="MsoNormal">
The Electronic Retailing Self-Regulation Program (ERSP) has recommended
that Obesity Research Institute, LLC, modify or discontinue certain advertising
claims for Lipozene, a weight loss supplement.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ERSP is an investigative unit of the advertising industry’s system
of self-regulation and is administered by the Council of Better Business
Bureaus. The marketer’s advertising came to the attention of ERSP through its
ongoing monitoring program.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In response to ERSP’s initial inquiry, the
marketer informed ERSP that the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in 2005 had issued
a stipulated final judgment regarding another product marketed by ORI. That
order applies to Lipozene as a “substantially similar product.” The marketer provided
written documentation that the FTC has reviewed certain claims and
substantiating documentation in its 2006 compliance monitoring of Obesity
Research Institute and Lipozene.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ERSP closed its review of claims covered
by the 2005 order, but continued its review of certain performance claims and testimonials,
including:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul>
<li><i>"Lipozene
has effectively helped millions of people meet their weight loss goals."</i></li>
<li><i>"With
over 20 million bottles sold, Lipozene is America's #1 selling diet
supplement."</i></li>
<li><i>"There
are no known side effects when taken as directed."</i></li>
<li><i>"Best
of all Lipozene is all-natural and does not contain caffeine or other
stimulants that can leave you feeling jittery."</i></li>
<li><i>“I
have been taking this product for about 3 months and have lost almost 2 pant
sizes. I take it 30 minutes before I eat and move all throughout the day. I
absolutely love this product. It is by far this best product out there for a
mother of 7 who doesn’t have time to go the gym.”</i></li>
</ul>
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Following its review of the evidence in
the case record, ERSP determined that ORI provided a reasonable basis for the
claims <i>“20 million bottles sold” </i>and<i> “millions of people meet their weight loss
goals.”</i></div>
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<br /></div>
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ERSP
did not object to the marketer‘s claim that Lipozene is “…<i>all-natural and does not contain caffeine or other stimulants that can
leave you feeling jittery,” </i>but<i> </i>recommended
the marketer discontinue or modify the claim that Lipozene has <i>“no known side effects when taken as
directed."</i></div>
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<br /></div>
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ERSP found that the marketer’s current
disclosures, as they appear in online advertising, were inadequate and recommended
that ORI include an accompanying triggering symbol to alert website visitors
that the claims do not depict results that may be typically expected by
consumers.</div>
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<br /></div>
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ERSP also recommended that ORI modify or
discontinue consumer testimonials.</div>
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<br /></div>
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The company, in its marketer’s statement, said it “welcomes and appreciates ERSP’s thorough and
thoughtful review of advertising for its weight loss product, Lipozene … Obesity
Research Institute does not necessarily agree with all of ERSP’s analysis and
conclusions … it nevertheless certainly respects ERSP’s conclusions and
recommendations and will modify these claims in its future advertising.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4294981593957645047.post-87929277526330425982014-08-01T16:04:00.000-04:002014-09-12T16:04:39.530-04:00ERSP Reviews Advertising for ‘Jidue,’ Recommends Marketer Modify or Discontinue Certain Claims<div class="MsoNormal">
The Electronic Retailing Self-Regulation Program (ERSP) has recommended
that Audy Global modify or discontinue claims for “Jidue,” a facial massager
intended to help reduce eye puffiness, facial tension, and wrinkles.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ERSP is an investigative unit of the advertising industry’s
system of self-regulation and is administered by the Council of Better Business
Bureaus. The marketer’s advertising came to the attention of ERSP pursuant to its ongoing monitoring program.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ERSP reviewed broadcast and online advertising
claims for Jidue, including:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul>
<li><i>“Reduces puffiness and
dark circles”</i></li>
<li><i>“Improves blood
circulation”</i></li>
<li><i>“Alleviates eye
fatigue”</i></li>
<li><i>“Relieves muscle
tension and stress”</i></li>
<li><i>“Relieves sinus pain”</i></li>
<li><i>“Helps you sleep
through the night”</i></li>
<li><i>“Reduces wrinkle
development”</i></li>
<li><i>“CLINICALLY PROVEN to
help relieve eye puffiness, facial tension and stress.”</i></li>
<li><i>"It's clinically
proven to reduce the development of wrinkles while helping to eliminate puffy
eyes and unsightly bags starting in just a few days."</i></li>
</ul>
<br />
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As support for the performance and
establishment claims at issue, the marketer submitted testing on Jidue. This
study included subjects who self-reported the results of using Jidue over a
thirty-day period.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Following its review of the evidence in
the case record, ERSP did not object to the general description of Jidue, i.e.,
<i>“Jidue's patented 18 acupulse
massagers stimulate your acupressure points that date back over 1000 years,
including qingming for eye fatigue and pain, qiuhou that focuses on dry eye and
inflammation, and zanshou and yuyao for stress headaches,"</i> or that the
product can provide a relaxing massage.</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-hyphenate: none; tab-stops: -4.5pt .5in 63.0pt 67.5pt 76.5pt 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in 6.5in;">
<br /></div>
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However, ERSP determined that the marketer
did not provide adequate support for claims that included: </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul>
<li>“<i>clinically proven</i>” results</li>
<li>"<i>Helps you sleep through the night</i>”</li>
<li>“<i>Reduce wrinkle development</i>”</li>
<li>“<i>Reduces puffiness and dark circles</i>”</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-hyphenate: none; tab-stops: -4.5pt .5in 63.0pt 67.5pt 76.5pt 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in 6.5in;">
ERSP
recommended the marketer modify or discontinue the claims in the context in which they were communicated.</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-hyphenate: none; tab-stops: -4.5pt .5in 63.0pt 67.5pt 76.5pt 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in 6.5in;">
<span style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-hyphenate: none; tab-stops: -4.5pt .5in 63.0pt 67.5pt 76.5pt 1.5in 2.0in 2.5in 3.0in 3.5in 4.0in 4.5in 5.0in 5.5in 6.0in 6.5in;">
<span style="text-align: justify;">The company, in its marketer’s statement,
said, “Audy Global Enterprises is conducting further tests consistent with the
ASRC standards and will be bringing all future advertising into compliance with
their standards. Audy Global will rewrite and update existing claims compliant
with the existing self-reported trials performed on the Jidue Facial massager.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4294981593957645047.post-55731525024175784152014-06-06T15:04:00.000-04:002014-06-13T15:04:50.942-04:00ERSP Recommends Adams Publishing Group Modify Certain Claims for Affiliate-Marketing Program; Company Agrees to Do So<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The Electronic Retailing Self-Regulation Program (ERSP) has recommended that Adams Publishing Group modify or discontinue certain claims for the Jeff Adams Real Estate Investing Expert affiliate marketing program.<br /><br />ERSP is an investigative unit of the advertising industry’s system of self-regulation and is administered by the Council of Better Business Bureaus, Inc. The marketer’s advertising came to the attention of ERSP through an anonymous competitor challenge. <br /><br />ERSP reviewed online advertising claims for the affiliate marketing, real estate investing program, including: </span><ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">“… teaches you how to make money with real estate investing – buying and selling foreclosures and distressed properties and doing it with no money and no credit”</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">“… will help you achieve financial freedom faster than ever!”</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">“Over the past 16 years, Jeff has invested in both residential and commercial properties in a variety of different states and his real estate businesses have brought in more than $50 million”</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">“… enabled me to increase my income in ways I never thought possible. No more hype. No more confusion. Thanks so much for your help, Jeff. I didn't think it could really be done, especially not as fast as Jeff said." [Don Sanders]</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The advertising consists of the marketer’s website (www.jeffadams.com), which explains that Jeff Adams is a real estate investment expert who can teach customers how to make money with real estate investing - buying and selling foreclosures and distressed properties - through courses and training.<br /><br />Preliminarily, ERSP noted the marketer’s willingness to cooperate and participate in the self-regulatory process.<br /><br />ERSP was concerned with representations that consumers are able to make money with no money or no credit. ERSP noted that the marketer pledged to modify the website to qualify such claims to indicate that certain strategies do not require using any of the student’s money. ERSP also acknowledged the marketer’s commitment to indicate whether certain material terms and conditions of particular lenders may apply.<br /><br />ERSP also was concerned with the implication that consumers may earn money quickly and easily and recommended that such performance claims be discontinued.<br />ERSP noted that the marketer did not provide any evidence regarding the amount of money that consumers have earned and that the majority of earnings claims attest to Jeff Adams’ personal success in real estate investing. <br /><br />The marketer informed ERSP that with regard to www.jeffadams.com, it will further modify its website to remove all earnings claims, and will refrain from making earnings claims in future advertising that is developed. ERSP further recommended that the marketer qualify the claims with a clear and conspicuous disclosure indicating that Jeff Adam’s success was atypical, by disclosing what the typical result would be.<br /><br />Finally, ERSP does not dispute that the success stories depicted in the advertising are from real people with actual success stories. However, ERSP recommended that they be accompanied by clear and conspicuous language qualifying the claims with disclosures of typicality. ERSP also recommended the marketer revisit testimonial claims for any potential implied earnings messages within the context of the testimonials themselves.<br /><br />The company, in its marketer’s statement, said that it “agrees with ERSP's recommendations, has implemented those recommendations and will continue to comply with all federal, state and local laws, regulations, industry guidelines and best industry practices.”</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4294981593957645047.post-46860902251042357052014-05-06T14:42:00.000-04:002014-06-13T14:47:51.907-04:00ERSP Refers Advertising for Kelacore to FTC, FDA After Marketer Fails to Respond to ERSP Inquiry<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Electronic Retailing Self-Regulation Program
(ERSP) has announced it will refer direct response advertising for the dietary
supplement “Kelacore” to the Federal
Trade Commission (FTC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) after the
marketer, Nature's Medicine Associates, failed to respond to an ERSP inquiry.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">ERSP is an investigative unit of the advertising
industry’s system of self-regulation and is administered by the Council of
Better Business Bureaus, Inc. The
marketer’s advertising came to ERSP’s attention pursuant to its ongoing
monitoring program.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Claims at issue in the initial inquiry included:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"</span><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Clears
deadly plaque from arteries without pills, needles, or surgery</i></li>
<li><i style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"To begin
with, the results of more than 34,000 patient case studies here in the U.S. are
impressive to say the least. Many patients taking Kelacore™ report a 50%
reduction in artery plaque. Some users report an incredible 75% reduction.”</span></i></li>
<li><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">“’My
femoral arteries were 70% blocked,’ says Jack Yates of Vashon, WA. ‘but
Kelacore™ has pretty much cleaned them out now. It’s a relief to know I’m not
such a high risk person for a heart attack or stroke anymore.’”</i></li>
<li><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">“Clinical
studies show it improves blood flow in the arteries. Many patients see blood
pressure and cholesterol levels return to normal. Some are able to cancel
costly drugs. Others avoid open-heart surgery. And many more report less chest
pains and numbness in the arms, legs, and feet.”</i><i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></i></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After failing to
provide a substantive response to ERSP’s original inquiry within fifteen
calendar days, the marketer was afforded a second ten-day period in which to
submit a substantive response. The marketer again did not submit a written
response to the inquiry and pursuant to section 2.6 (B) of the ERSP Policy and
Procedures, this matter has been referred to the FTC and FDA.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4294981593957645047.post-1819801296428001142014-04-15T14:48:00.000-04:002014-06-13T14:49:35.141-04:00ERSP Recommends PartnerWithPaul.com, LLC Modify Certain Claims for Affiliate-Marketing Program; Company Agrees to Do So<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The Electronic Retailing Self-Regulation Program (ERSP) has recommended that PartnerWithPaul.com, LLC modify or discontinue certain claims for the company’s Partner With Paul affiliate marketing program.<br /><br />ERSP is an investigative unit of the advertising industry’s system of self-regulation and is administered by the Council of Better Business Bureaus. The marketer’s advertising came to the attention of ERSP through ERSP’s ongoing monitoring program. <br /><br />ERSP reviewed online advertising claims for the affiliate marketing, wealth-creation product, including: </span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">“Making money online can be easier than you think when you know how ...”</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">“I work from home and pocket more money in a month than most people make all year”</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">“More importantly, I’ll PROVE that making a million dollars online is possible with the program I am about to show you.”</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">“I'm looking for a relatively small group of people who want to make lots of money online, and the whole purpose of this website is really just to help me find these people.”</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">“$5200 in first month” [Tanya D.]</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Partner with Paul is an affiliate marketing program that purports to describe a marketing program to become a reseller for a multi-level-marketing program. The advertising consists of the marketer’s website (www.partnerwithpaul.com), which describes how to make money online and invites customers to create an account with Partner With Paul in order to receive a special report titled “The Only ‘Secret’ to Making Money Online.”<br /><br />ERSP disagreed that the website describes a marketing program to become a reseller for a multi-level marketing program. Indeed, nowhere on the homepage of the website does the marketer describe that customers will become MLM resellers. This is material information that must be prominently and conspicuously disclosed to consumers. <br /><br />ERSP remained concerned with representations regarding the implication that product users will be able to achieve the success communicated in the advertising easily, with little or no skill, and without a lot of free time. ERSP determined that one message reasonably communicated in the advertising was that consumers can earn money quickly and easily, despite the removal of the word “easy.” ERSP therefore recommended the marketer discontinue such performance claims.<br /><br />ERSP also noted that the marketer did not provide any evidence regarding the amount of money that purchasers of Partner With Paul have earned using the product. ERSP acknowledged the marketer’s pledge to remove the average earnings grid and testimonial representations. ERSP additionally noted the marketer’s attempt to qualify the claims made on the homepage. However, ERSP remained concerned that the language was neither “clear and conspicuous,” nor was it located in close proximity to the claims. ERSP additionally noted that, as of today, the claim “My best friend was really mad at me…sitting in my home office, deeply in debt, he begged me to show him how I am averaging $136,808 a month online” has not been removed, despite the marketer’s pledge in the alternative. Therefore, ERSP recommended that Partner With Paul discontinue any and all earnings claims until it can support such income statements with reliable consumer data.<br /><br />Finally, ERSP recognized the marketer’s commitment to removing testimonials that reference earnings, profits, and results.<br /><br />The company, in its marketer’s statement, said that it would follow ERSP’s suggestions and that it “…is in process of substantially revising our advertising and continue to improve our consumer messaging to be as truthful, accurate, clear and conspicuous as possible.”</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4294981593957645047.post-47583827555209402592014-04-11T14:48:00.000-04:002014-06-13T14:50:38.246-04:00ERSP Recommends Theradome Modify, Discontinue Certain Claims for Hair-Loss Laser<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Electronic Retailing Self-Regulation Program (ERSP) has recommended
that Theradome, Inc., modify or
discontinue certain advertising claims for Theradome, a product designed to
treat hair loss through the use of a low-level laser.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">ERSP is an investigative unit of the advertising industry’s
system of self-regulation and is administered by the Council of Better Business
Bureaus. The marketer’s advertising came to the attention of ERSP through an
anonymous competitive challenge.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">ERSP reviewed online advertising claims
for Theradome, including:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul>
<li><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">“The first
and only FDA cleared clinical strength laser treatment that has proven triple
action”</i></li>
<li><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">“Proven to
grow hair in 98 percent of users”</i></li>
<li><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">“In our
clinical studies ALL participants benefited from the Theradome™ and experienced
one or more of the following: 1) Thicker and more manageable hair, 2) Reduced
hair loss, and 3) New hair growth after three to four months. We know it works,
that's why we guarantee that you'll see great results.”</i></li>
<li><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">”100%
Proven. 100% Easy. 100% Safe.”</i></li>
<li><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">“The
world’s most powerful in-home solution to treat hair loss."</i></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As support for the performance and
establishment claims at issue, the marketer submitted testing on low-level
laser therapy (LLLT), the main technology behind Theradome. The marketer also
provided ERSP with materials concerning its 510(k) premarket notification,
which established its equivalence to a predicate device.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Following its review of the evidence in
the case record, ERSP did not object to some general performance claims, but determined
that the marketer did not provide adequate support for claims that Theradome
will help consumers “… </span><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">experience
thicker and longer hair, a healthier scalp with reduced scalp itching and
inflammation. Plus those with curly hair will see enhanced curl retention.
After 52 treatments (20 minutes per treatment), the hairs on the top of the
head and the vertex will start filling in. After 100 treatments (20 minutes per
treatment), fuller and thicker hair will result with continued use.”</i><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">ERSP recommended that the marketer clearly
and conspicuously disclose that Theradome is specifically intended for “</span><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">females
with female pattern hair loss on the Ludwig and Savin Hair Loss Scale
I-II, Fitzpatrick Skin Types I to IV”</i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> as it is necessary information for
consumers.</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">ERSP
found insufficient evidence to demonstrate that the FDA had “</span><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">approved</i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">” the product “</span><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">to increase the diameter of hair up to 200%”
– </i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">a message that ERSP determined could by reasonably understood by consumers
– and recommended the marketer discontinue this claim.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Further,
ERSP found that studies presented by the advertiser did not meet general
standards of competent and reliable evidence and found that the marketer did
not support the comparative claims at issue.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The company, in its marketer’s statement, said, “We will
continue to make appropriate modifications to advertising for Theradome LH80
PRO in accordance with ERSP's recommendations … Theradome Inc. is committed to
ensuring that its advertising is truthful, accurate, and substantiated. We
value and support industry self-regulation and welcome the ERSP's decision
regarding advertising for the Theradome LH80 PRO medical device.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4294981593957645047.post-90530395576317786102014-03-18T16:54:00.000-04:002014-03-26T12:18:21.340-04:00ERSP Refers Advertising for Dinamo to FTC, FDA; Marketer Fails to Respond to ERSP Inquiry<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Electronic Retailing
Self-Regulation Program (ERSP) has announced it will refer direct response
advertising for Dinamo to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Food and
Drug Administration (FDA) after the marketer, Natures Flava, LLC, failed to respond
to an ERSP inquiry.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">ERSP is an investigative unit of
the advertising industry’s system of self-regulation and is administered by the
Council of Better Business Bureaus. The
marketer’s advertising came to ERSP’s attention pursuant to its ongoing monitoring
program.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Claims at issue in the initial
inquiry included:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><i style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Diabetes
no more!”</span></i></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i style="text-indent: -0.25in;">“It's
targeted to lower blood sugar levels and fight against diabetes!" </i><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">and</span><i style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> "Dinamo helps lower blood sugar
levels."</i></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i style="text-indent: -0.25in;">“</i><i style="text-indent: -0.25in;">When I woke up in the morning prior to the Dinamo, my
insulin levels were usually in the high 200s - 250, 260, 270. And since I
started using the Dinamo, that number has gone to about the 160s, 170s,
180s." [Larry]</i></span></li>
<li><i style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Created for DIABETICS to help maintain blood sugar levels
with only NATURAL and ORGANIC ingredients.”</span></i></li>
</ul>
<span style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Pursuant
to the ERSP Policies and Procedures, after failing to provide a substantive
response to ERSP’s original inquiry within fifteen calendar days, the marketer
was afforded a second ten-day period in which to submit a substantive response.
The marketer again did not submit a written response to the inquiry and
pursuant to section 2.6 (B) of the ERSP Policies and Procedures, this matter
has been referred to the FTC and FDA.</span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4294981593957645047.post-26226778109910746912014-03-18T16:51:00.000-04:002014-03-26T12:20:17.169-04:00ERSP Reviews Advertising for ‘Zvelt,’ Marketer Voluntarily Discontinues Claims<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Electronic Retailing Self-Regulation Program (ERSP) has recommended
Progenum International, LLC modify or discontinue certain claims for Zvelt, a weight-loss
patch.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">ERSP is an investigative unit of the advertising industry’s
system of self-regulation and is administered by the Council of Better Business
Bureaus. The marketer’s advertising
came to the attention of ERSP pursuant to its ongoing monitoring program.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">ERSP reviewed broadcast and online advertising for Zvelt and
identified several claims for review, including:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul>
<li><i style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Just
apply and say goodbye to those stubborn pounds;”</span></i></li>
<li><i style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Just
stick the patch on and watch the pounds roll off”</span></i></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">“</span><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">THE
SAFEST, EASIEST WAY TO LOSE WEIGHT!”</i></li>
<li><i style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“I
was amazed with how fast the weight came off and stayed off”</span></i></li>
<li><i style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“I
lost 75 pounds and I've kept it off for 6 years.”</span></i></li>
<li><i style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Zvelt's
unique formula of clinically proven ingredients are absorbed slowly through the
skin to stimulate your body's natural fat burning capabilities.”</span></i></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">During the course of the inquiry, the marketer informed ERSP that it
had voluntarily discontinued its broadcast advertising, which contained several
of the claims at issue in the inquiry.</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After reviewing the evidence submitted by the marketer, ERSP determined
that the consumer testimonials that appear on the product website are atypical
and are not supported. ERSP recommended that testimonial claims of specific
weight loss include a clear and conspicuous disclosure that the weight loss was
obtained in conjunction with diet and exercise.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">ERSP also found that the claim “<i>No Crazy Diets</i>,” in the context in which it is presented, may be
reasonably interpreted by consumers as meaning they can lose significant weight
without the assistance of a calorie-restricted diet. ERSP concluded that this
message was not accurate.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Further, ERSP determined that the claim “<i>SAFEST, EASIEST WAY TO LOSE WEIGH</i>T”
could be considered a comparative superiority claim and without evidence to substantiate
this claim, ERSP concluded that it was not supported.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-align: justify;">The company, in its marketer’s statement, said “Progenum
appreciates all of the interaction ERSP has afforded us during this process.
Their input has been extremely helpful, and in fact, has provided the basis for
the new scripting we are currently developing.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4294981593957645047.post-68421430902695828242014-03-18T16:46:00.000-04:002014-03-26T12:19:34.280-04:00ERSP Reviews Advertising for ‘Troxyphen,’ Recommends Marketer Modify or Discontinue Certain Claims<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Electronic Retailing Self-Regulation Program (ERSP) has recommended
that truDERMA, LLC, discontinue certain claims for the company’s Troxyphen
dietary supplement, including claims that the product is “safe and clinically
researched.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">ERSP is an investigative unit of the advertising industry’s
system of self-regulation and is administered by the Council of Better Business
Bureaus. The marketer’s advertising came to the attention of ERSP through an
anonymous competitive challenge.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">ERSP reviewed online advertising claims
for Troxyphen, including:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>"</i><i style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Troxyphen
is safe & clinically researched”</i></span></li>
<li><i style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“The
patented test [sic] boosting blend was shown in clinical studies to: Raise
testosterone levels 98.81% in 8 weeks.”</span></i></li>
<li><i style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Gains in
Muscle Size & Strength”</span></i></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">“</span><i style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Tribulus Terrestris - This extract increases
the body’s natural testosterone levels and thereby improves male sexual
performance and helps build muscle.”</i></span></li>
<li><i style="text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">“Burn
excess fat | Improve sex drive | Gain muscle mass”</span></i></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-align: justify;">As support for the performance and
establishment claims at issue, the marketer submitted testing on its key
ingredient. After reviewing the evidence, ERSP concluded that truDERMA provided
a reasonable basis for claims relating to an “</span><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-align: justify;">increased sex drive.”</i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">However, ERSP determined that the marketer
did not provide adequate support for claims that Troxyphen will <i>“burn excess fat”</i> or that users will <i>“gain muscle mass.”</i> ERSP recommended
that the marketer discontinue any claims of weight and/or fat loss, increased
muscle, and improved BMI.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">ERSP also recommended that the marketer discontinue
claims that promise quantified performance results and modify general claims of
increased testosterone by disclosing that the product must be used in
conjunction with resistance training.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The marketer did not provide evidence indicating
that the dosages of ingredients contained in Troxyphen will provide the results
specifically stated in the advertising. As a result, ERSP recommended truDERMA
discontinue several ingredient claims and the claim that “<i>Troxyphen is safe & clinically
researched.”</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The company, in its marketer’s statement, said, “truDERMA
appreciates ESRC's comments and direction on our advertising. We are
committed to helping people lead healthier, happier lives. truDERMA will
give serious consideration to ESRC's recommendations in our
advertising practices."</span></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4294981593957645047.post-78202050729406864352014-02-26T12:55:00.002-05:002014-02-26T12:55:16.282-05:00FTC Files Complaint Against Apply Knowledge, YES International<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">The FTC announced on Monday that it has filed a complaint against Apply Knowledge, a work-from-home business opportunity that "conned millions of dollars from consumers by falsely telling them they could easily earn thousands of dollars a month by purchasing bogus business coaching services and establishing their own Internet businesses." The FTC noted that consumers who purchased the company's "product(s)" lost thousands if not tens of thousands of dollars.<br /><br />From the FTC <a href="http://www.ftc.gov/news-events/press-releases/2014/02/ftc-halts-multi-million-dollar-work-home-business-coaching-scheme" target="_blank">Press Release</a>: "U.S. District Court for the District of Utah froze the assets of the defendants, who did business under a variety of names, including Essent Media, LLC, Net Training, LLC, YES International, Coaching Department, and Apply Knowledge, and appointed a temporary receiver to take control of the operations, pending the outcome of a preliminary injunction hearing set for March 20, 2014. The FTC seeks to put a permanent stop to the operations and return money to consumers."<br /><br />According to the FTC’s complaint, the defendants’ websites told numerous false “rags to riches” stories, using photos – obtained from stock photo agencies – of supposed users of the defendants’ services, and made false and unsubstantiated claims about how much money consumers could earn. <br /><br />ERSP had previously examined the advertising claims made by defendant YES International, pursuant to an anonymous consumer challenge (ERSP Case #311). In particular, ERSP reviewed earnings and testimonial claims that appeared on a variety of different lead-generation websites.<br /><br />In examining the sites, ERSP noted that each site displayed at least four testimonials. However, the exact text of each testimonial appeared on multiple sites, attributed to different consumers. ERSP recommended that the marketer discontinue the use of such testimonials.<br /><br />The company agreed to modify the claims at issue, and said it would provide an appropriate disclaimer on its website regarding the testimonials. Further, the company said, it “will strive to eliminate duplicate or replicated testimonials from any website it operates for the purpose of advertising its services and products, and to ensure that the testimonials are substantiated and do not overstate results from YES’ products and services.” </span><div class="MsoNormal">
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4294981593957645047.post-51759305235582399022014-02-04T16:44:00.000-05:002014-03-25T16:45:12.834-04:00ERSP Finds Direct Digital Can Support Performance Claims for ‘Nugenix,’ Recommends Marketer Modify Certain Claims<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The
Electronic Retailing Self-Regulation Program (ERSP) has determined that Direct
Digital, LLC can support certain claims for Nugenix, a dietary supplement
intended to increase testosterone levels. ERSP recommended the advertiser
discontinue claims related to increased “muscle mass.”</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">ERSP
is an investigative unit of the advertising industry’s system of
self-regulation and is administered by the Council of Better Business Bureaus. The marketer’s advertising came to the
attention of ERSP pursuant to an anonymous competitive challenge.</span></div>
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reviewed online advertising for Nugenix and identified several claims for
review, including:</span></div>
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<li><i style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">“Helps
increase testosterone”</span></span></i></li>
<li><i style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">“Helps
increase libido and sexual performance</span></span></i><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">”</span></span></li>
<li><i style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">“Helps
increase muscle mass”</span></span></i></li>
<li><i style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">“Helps
increase energy”</span></span></i></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">“</span></span><i style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Studies and tests show the
main ingredient in Nugenix is effective”</span></span></i></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">“</span></span><i style="text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Nugenix is the
#1 bestselling men’s vitality product in GNC Stores in the Unites States for
2013 for a reason."</span></span></i></li>
</ul>
</span><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
</ul>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">During
the course of ERSP’s inquiry, the marketer said that it had voluntarily
discontinued several claims cited by ERSP and had significantly revised its
website. However, the marketer indicated it would continue to disseminate a
number of core claims such as <i>“helps
increase free testosterone.”</i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">The
marketer also informed ERSP that it had discontinued any and all claims
indicating that the product or its ingredients are “clinically proven” to
provide the indicated benefits. The marketer also noted that it will
discontinue claims relating to Tribulus terrestris.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">As
support for general performance claims made in the advertising, the marketer
submitted a number of studies on the ingredients contained within Nugenix. ERSP
found that the marketer could support general performance claims that Nugenix
“helps increase” testosterone, libido, sexual performance, and energy.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">However,
after reviewing the evidence in the case record, ERSP determined that
unqualified claims relating to increased muscle mass were not adequately
supported.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">ERSP found that the marketer provided a reasonable basis for
claims regarding zinc, Vitamin B, and L-citrulline. ERSP further concluded that
the evidence submitted supported claims that the product is “</span><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">the #1 bestselling men’s vitality product in GNC Stores in the Unites
States for 2013...</i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">The
company, in its marketer’s statement, said “While we disagree with ERSP’s
conclusion that the claim “helps increase muscle mass” is not adequately
qualified, with the goal of full cooperation with advertising self-regulation,
we will take ERSP’s conclusion into account when developing future
advertisements.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Direct Digital, LLC is
committed to ensuring that its advertising is truthful, accurate, and
substantiated, and we value and support industry self-regulation.”</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4294981593957645047.post-12262218109911981062013-11-25T15:37:00.000-05:002013-12-20T15:37:46.236-05:00ERSP Reviews Advertising for ‘Testoril,’ Marketer Voluntarily Discontinues Claims<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The Electronic Retailing Self-Regulation Program (ERSP) has determined that Premium Nutraceuticals, LLC can support certain claims for Testoril, a dietary supplement intended to increase testosterone levels.<br /><br />ERSP is an investigative unit of the advertising industry’s system of self-regulation and is administered by the Council of Better Business Bureaus. The marketer’s advertising came to the attention of ERSP pursuant to an anonymous competitive challenge.<br /><br />During the course of ERSP’s review of online advertising for the product, the marketer informed ERSP that it had voluntarily discontinued a number of the claims at issue, including:</span></span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">“Increase your physical stamina, Diminish Wrinkles & Ankle spots, Speed up your Metabolism, Restore your Hair Condition & Color, Firm & Smooth your skin, Decrease your Body Fat, Increase your Lean Muscle Mass”</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">“Increase testosterone production by 75%"</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">“Testoril™ is an all-natural daily supplement, formulated with a series of premium herbals, amino acids and nutrients that have been individually shown to kick-start your hormone production.”</span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">However, the marketer indicated it will continue to use the following claims:</span></span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">“A DAILY SUPPLEMENT OF TESTORIL CAN HELP BOOST YOUR TESTOSTERONE NATURALLY”</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">“Perhaps best of all, Testoril is available without a prescription”</span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Following its review of the evidence in the record, ERSP recommended that if the advertiser uses the core claim that Testoril can boost testosterone, it do in the qualified context of using Testoril in conjunction with a resistance training regimen.<br /><br />ERSP noted in its decision that it has no objection to Premium Nutraceuticals making a core claim that Testoril is available without a prescription, so long as it does not communicate the claim in a comparative context with competitive prescription drug products.<br /><br />The company, in its marketer’s statement, said “We are committed to continually educating ourselves on any new changes or guidelines created by the FTC, NARC, BBB, ASRC and ERSP. We strive to work with these organizations in an effort to self-regulate sales copy and ensure that the internet remains a safe place all consumers."</span></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4294981593957645047.post-22945984450680298092013-10-16T16:46:00.000-04:002013-11-15T16:48:20.613-05:00ERSP Finds Kowa Health Care America, Inc. Can Support Performance Claims for ‘Okinawa Life,’ Recommends Marketer Modify Certain Claims<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Electronic Retailing
Self-Regulation Program (ERSP) has determined that Kowa Health Care America,
Inc. (“Kowa”) can support general performance claims for Okinawa Life, a
dietary supplement marketed as providing a variety of health benefits. However,
ERSP recommended that Kowa discontinue certain claims.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">ERSP is an investigative unit of
the advertising industry’s system of self-regulation and is administered by the
Council of Better Business Bureaus. The
marketer’s advertising came to the attention of ERSP pursuant to its ongoing
monitoring program.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">ERSP reviewed broadcast and
online advertising for Okinawa Life and identified several claims for review,
including:</span></div>
<ul>
<li><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">“…</i><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">Made exclusively in Japan, Okinawa Life is a
dietary supplement created to give your body many of the healthy nutrients and
benefits you would get from eating traditional Okinawan food.”</i></li>
<li><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">“Like
healthy aging supplements, Okinawa
Life™ delivers nutrients associated with vitality, longevity and
immunity.” </i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">and </span><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">“Promotes &
supports: Vitality, Longevity, Immune Health"</i></li>
<li><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">“Our
study showed that the key food ingredients of the traditional Okinawan diet,
are an integral aspect of the secret to their longevity and good health. These
ingredients are also found in Okinawa Life.”</i></li>
<li><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">“After a
25 year study, an international team of researchers determined that the long
life of Okinawans is due to their lifestyle and diet of fish and vegetables.”</i></li>
<li><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">“Ingredients
include:</i></li>
<ul>
<li><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -22.5pt;">Isoflavone
found in high quantities of traditional tofu of Okinawa promotes an antioxidant
effect that fights free radical damage at the cellular level on the human body.</i></li>
<li><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -22.5pt;">Zedoary
- an herb similar to turmeric that helps to aid digestion.</i></li>
<li><i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-indent: -22.5pt;">Goya - a
bitter melon gourd, the nutritional king of the Okinawa diet.”</i></li>
</ul>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-align: justify;">Kowa explained to ERSP that the Okinawa Life
formula consists of several ingredients (i.e., isoflavones, zedoary, and goya) derived
from foods typically associated with the Okinawan diet. ERSP agreed that the
impact of the Okinawan diet on the longevity of native Okinawans has been well
documented in a number of articles. ERSP determined that it is not
inappropriate for the marketer to communicate that Okinawa Life was formulated
to include many of the same ingredients found in the Okinawan diet.</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">However, while Kowa provided support for claims
regarding the nutritional benefits of soy isoflavones, ERSP determined that
claims related to zedoary and goya were not adequately supported. As a result,
ERSP recommended Kowa modify its advertising to discontinue references
to goya and zedoary in a context that implies to consumers that the dosages of
these ingredients in Okinawa Life are nutritionally beneficial.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">ERSP also determined that claims regarding the
25 year study were truthful and accurate as communicated in the advertising.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The company, in its marketer’s
statement, said “Kowa Health Care America, Inc. appreciates the opportunity to
participate in the Electronic Retailing Self-Regulation Program’s (“ERSP”)
self-regulatory process, and we welcome ERSP’s decision regarding advertising
for the Okinawa Life™ dietary supplement.
We are pleased ERSP determined that scientific evidence demonstrates
that the soy isoflavones in Okinawa Life support lower cholesterol levels,
improved endothelial function, and cardiovascular health. We will modify advertising for Okinawa Life
in accordance with ERSP’s recommendations.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4294981593957645047.post-34214635516066619532013-09-19T12:30:00.000-04:002013-10-11T12:31:32.752-04:00ERSP Finds Migralex, Inc. Provided Reasonable Basis for Advertising Claims<div class="MsoNormal">
The Electronic Retailing Self-Regulation Program (ERSP) has determined
that Migralex, Inc. can support performance and establishment claims for
Migralex, an over-the-counter product intended for the treatment of headaches.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ERSP is an investigative unit of the advertising industry’s
system of self-regulation and is administered by the Council of Better Business
Bureaus. The marketer’s advertising
came to the attention of ERSP pursuant to its ongoing monitoring program.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-align: center;">ERSP reviewed online advertising for Migralex and identified
several claims for review, including:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><i>“Patients are raving about
Migralex because it works and here is why:</i></li>
<ul>
<li><i>Doctor Developed</i></li>
<li><i>Unique combination of proprietary
ingredients</i></li>
<li><i>Rapid release formula designed to
relieve tough headaches</i></li>
<li><i>contains no caffeine, no sodium,
no preservatives</i></li>
<li><i>Is gentle on the stomach”</i></li>
</ul>
<li><i>“Fast acting formula designed to
treat tough headaches.”</i></li>
<li><i>“Patented scientific formula”</i></li>
<li><i>“Dr. Mauskop’s Migralex, a
patented, clinically proven, breakthrough formula is now available as an
over-the-counter treatment for many kinds of headaches, including:</i></li>
<ul>
<li><i>Tension Headaches</i></li>
<li><i>Menstrual Headaches</i></li>
<li><i>Sinus Headaches</i></li>
<li><i>Exertion Headaches</i></li>
<li><i>Stress Headaches</i></li>
<li><i>Neck Strain Headaches”</i></li>
</ul>
</ul>
<span style="text-align: justify;">During the course of ERSP’s inquiry, the
marketer asserted that it had voluntarily discontinued a number of the claims
cited by ERSP and noted that several of the original claims were taken from an
outdated version of the product’s website and commercial.</span><o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-align: justify;">
Migralex, Inc. explained that the key
ingredient in its product is aspirin, and provided several studies to supports
its performance and establishment claims. Following its review of the evidence
in the record, ERSP determined that a “clinically proven” claim for the active
ingredient – aspirin – is adequately supported.</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-align: justify;">
With respect to the five performance
attributes of the product (“doctor developed,” “unique combination of
proprietary ingredients,” “rapid release formula designed to relieve tough
headaches,” “contains no caffeine, no sodium, no preservatives,” and “is gentle
on the stomach”), ERSP agreed that the claims truthfully describe several
distinguishing characteristics of Migralex.</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-align: justify;">
Further, ERSP found that claims regarding
“rapid relief” and “fast acting” are appropriately disseminated in the
advertising.</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-align: justify;">
The company, in its marketer’s statement, said “Migralex
appreciates the opportunity to participate in the ERSP self-regulatory process
and is pleased that ERSP has agreed that the current claims being made for
Migralex are truthful and accurate.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0