False Advertising

On a daily basis we are bombarded with advertisements (especially now on the internet) stating “Make $1,500 a week from home!” or “Lose 20 pounds by next weekend!” While some advertisers are more blatant with their empty promises, others choose to put in a little more effort to try to swindle you. The following are examples of some straight-up lies brought to you by commonly – known brands:

Listerine: In 1921, Listerine had advertised its popular mouthwash as a cure-all for sore throats, coughs, dandruff, and also as an anti-shave tonic and a safe way to protect the skin from cuts or bruises. It took until 1975 for the Federal Trade Commission to step in, forcing the company to spend $10 million on corrective advertising.

Amoco Gasoline: In 1996, the U.S. was going through a clear trend revolution; Pepsi was clear, Clearly Canadian dominated supermarket shelves, and Amoco – which had been producing clear gasoline for years, tried to capitalize on this.  They began to newly market their existing product as one that provided superior engine performance and substantial environmental benefits, all because it was clear. When they were unable to provide factual evidence, they were forced to halt the campaign.

L’Oreal: L’Oreal is now forced to put disclaimers on their mascara advertisements after its discovery that Penelope Cruz was wearing false lashes in the Telescopic mascara advertisement; claiming the product boosts lashes by 60%. The Advertising Standards Authority is keeping a close eye on future promotions.

Advertisement