There are state and federal laws in place that protect consumers from advertising that either false or misleading. The laws make a deceptive claim illegal and provide consumers with the ability to take legal action against a company that takes part in such practices. At Sheehan & Associates P.C., we can provide legal assistance to any consumer who has been wrongfully treated by a business due to false and misleading advertising.
No business is allowed to make a false, misleading or deceptive claim involving a product or service. Such claims can include the price of the item, the quality or purpose. Consumers often fall victim to misleading or false advertising and have no idea they can take legal action against the business.
Understanding False and Misleading Advertising
When it comes to advertising, a false ad would be one that involves a claim that is untrue or deceptive. Advertising that is considered misleading involves a product that creates an invalid understanding of a product. With either practice, advertising can lead to the consumer losing financial or cause other damage.
The financial loss or damage may be minimal but the consumer should not have to endure such behavior from businesses. Consumers who have lost financially or faced other damages due to false or misleading advertising can take part in a class action lawsuit against the company to recover compensation for losses.
Tactics Used by Businesses
Companies can use a variety of tactics that involve false or misleading advertising. One of the most common is the bait & switch technique. This involves advertising a product for a certain price but will not sell at that price. The advertisement gets the consumer in the door and then the business tries to sell the item at a higher price.
Another common tactic is high-pressure sales. Consumers are badgered to purchase a product over and over until they give in. In these scenarios, the consumer does not have the intention of buying a product.
Artificially inflating prices is another way a business can use advertising to trick consumers. They give the illusion that the item is a great deal but in reality, the price being paid is higher than it should be.
In a false or misleading advertising case, consumers can benefit in several ways. Monetary damages may be awarded or an injunction placed on the business, forcing them to stop running the advertisements. An injunction may also be placed on the business to stop taking part in deceptive behavior or to disclose certain statements during advertising.
It is important to take legal action when you have been deceived by a business via a false or misleading advertisement. Businesses are to adhere to certain standards and those that do not only harm the consumer. By taking action, you are not only helping yourself but other individuals who may be negatively affected by the actions of the business.
Contact our office today to learn more about what we can do for you involving false and misleading business advertisements.