New proposed guidelines to rein in false advertising on social media

THE Advertising Standards Authority of Singapore (ASAS) has drawn up new guidelines to tighten the levels of disclosure that are required of sponsored messages that appear on social media channels and blogs. These guidelines are now up for public consultation.

Under these guidelines, marketers must make sponsored messages distinguishable from personal opinions and editorial content in their posts, and disclose any commercial relationships.

Marketers must also develop community guidelines, be transparent about fees and the purchase process, and ensure that digital marketing communications addressed to children are suitable for them.

ASAS will take in feedback submissions until 5pm, Jan 8, 2016.