What is the deal with Disclosure statements?

Discussion in 'Blogging' started by kingjacob, Jun 21, 2007.

  1. #1
    Ive been seeing alot of blogs post at the end of their posts if they linked to a site using their referid a little disclosure statement something along the lines of

    "Disclaimer: Some of the above links are are affiliate links - if you sign up using these links I earn a small amount as a commission. It does not impact what you earn but rather is paid by the network.. While these links are affiliate links I genuinely believe in the product and have endeavored to point out both its benefits and weaknesses in all my writing about it."


    I think I understand why they would post this but is it really necessary to disclose everytime you use a referall link, In doing this it kinda makes referall links to a site look worse than a direct link. if you genuinelly believe the product is good why should you not get a share for referring someone.
     
    kingjacob, Jun 21, 2007 IP
  2. RedruM*

    RedruM* Peon

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    #2
    because they would not have signed up without you.

    i mean if i'm gonna sign up to a new program, i always ask mates on msn if they got referal links ..
     
    RedruM*, Jun 21, 2007 IP
  3. Colbyt

    Colbyt Notable Member

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    #3
    It is a gray area. Current US law does not require such a disclosure but it offers an additional level of protection.

    I would not be surprised to see it become mandatory within a few years.
     
    Colbyt, Jun 21, 2007 IP
  4. kingjacob

    kingjacob Peon

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    #4
    A level of protection for who? If the referred product is good then everyone wins, if its a bad product that they refer the blog just looses credibility and readers.

    I know US law requires news companies like FOX disclose that they are owned by newscorp if they do a story on myspace but is this really necessary for blogs?
     
    kingjacob, Jun 21, 2007 IP
  5. hmansfield

    hmansfield Guest

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    #5
    That is Bull.
    What protection for a referral?
    The whole damn planet is a referral, or an affiliate.


    "At 7-11, while we appreciate your business, we feel it fair to inform you that we don't actually make the Slim Jim's, however we do support and recommend the Slim Jim product, and by purchasing said Slim Jim, we do make a small profit"
     
    hmansfield, Jun 21, 2007 IP
  6. narcolept

    narcolept Peon

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    #6
    The reason you see them in certain places is that some feel a moral obligation to disclose the fact they're being paid for something, while others feel it's common knowledge and not something they need to point out every chance they get.

    Check out Shoemoney's thoughts on this and the follow ups which go through his debate with Rand Fishkin on his radio show for more insight into this.
     
    narcolept, Jun 22, 2007 IP