It is illegal to engage in conduct that is misleading or deceptive (or likely to mislead or deceive) or make false representations to consumers or other businesses.
Businesses should be honest in their dealings and shouldn't try to gain an unfair advantage by making misleading claims about their products or services. Make sure that any claims you make (including claims about future events) are true or based on reasonable grounds.
False or misleading advertising laws also apply to online content. Any information that you post online about your products, services or business must be accurate and truthful. This includes on social media, your website or any other online platform. This information includes prices, images and descriptions of what you are offering, as well as shipping options and delivery times.
Engaging in the conduct outlined in this module could have serious consequences for you and your business, including penalties (up to the greater of $10 million, 3 times the value of the benefit received, or where the benefit cannot be calculated, 10% of annual turnover in the preceding 12 months for corporations and $500,000 for individuals) for specific types of false or misleading representations.
For more information, visit the Advertising and promoting your business section.
Watch our short video about your responsibilities when advertising online.