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The Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) recent ruling banning fake reviews and testimonials, set to take effect in October 2024, is a significant step forward for the "Choose Your Influence" movement. This ruling directly promotes integrity in the reviews and testimonials that shape our perceptions of what is trustworthy. But, as with any influence, it remains crucial that we stay mindful of what we allow to shape our decisions—even with these new protections in place.
At its core, the FTC's new rule prohibits businesses from engaging in deceptive review practices, such as generating or buying fake reviews, using insider reviews without disclosure, or suppressing negative feedback. The ruling also cracks down on social media manipulation, preventing the purchase of fake followers or views.
The Role of the Review
The "Choose Your Influence" movement is all about auditing the inputs in your life—understanding what’s shaping your definition of success, what’s holding you back, and who is in your circle of influence. Reviews are a significant part of that equation. They shape the decisions we make about products, services, and experiences. But it’s not just about avoiding fake reviews; it’s about choosing with intention. Even with this new rule in place, it’s essential to continue asking these questions:
Does this review align with my values?
Am I relying on this review without considering the facts?
How do I view the brand’s overall reputation outside of these reviews?
By being mindful of the influence reviews have on our choices, we reclaim our decisions and protect our integrity as consumers.
Choosing Influence with Integrity
The FTC’s final rule aligns with the core values of the "Choose Your Influence" community: integrity, authenticity, and empowerment. While this rule might help reduce some deceptions by providing more reliable information, it’s still up to each of us to make decisions that reflect who we are and what suits our needs.
So, the next time you add something to your cart, remember—you are being influenced. Stay mindful of who or what you allow to influence you. Only you can Choose Your Influence.
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