Website Advertising – 2 Legal Traps to Avoid When Writing Your Own Copy

legal traps

Writing your own website advertising copy can be a great way to save money and ensure that your ads are on-brand. However, it's important to be aware of the legal traps that can ensnare you if you're not careful.

Here are two of the most common legal traps to avoid when writing your own website advertising copy:

1. False or misleading claims

One of the most common legal traps in website advertising is making false or misleading claims. This can include anything from overstating the benefits of your product or service to making false claims about your competitors.

For example, if you claim that your product is “the best on the market” when it's not, you could be held liable for false advertising. Similarly, if you claim that your competitor's product is “dangerous” when it's not, you could also be held liable.

To avoid this legal trap, be sure to base all of your claims on factual evidence. If you're making a claim about the benefits of your product, have studies or testimonials to back it up. And if you're making a claim about a competitor's product, be sure that you can prove it's true.

2. Copyright infringement

Another common legal trap in website advertising is copyright infringement. This can happen if you use copyrighted content in your ads without permission from the copyright holder.

For example, if you use a copyrighted image in your ad without permission from the copyright holder, you could be sued for copyright infringement. Similarly, if you use a copyrighted video or song in your ad without permission, you could also be sued.

To avoid this legal trap, be sure to get permission from the copyright holder before using any copyrighted content in your ads. If you're not sure whether or not you need permission, it's best to err on the side of caution and not use the content.

By avoiding these two legal traps, you can protect yourself from lawsuits and ensure that your website advertising copy is legal and compliant.

Here are some additional tips for writing legal and compliant website advertising copy:

  • Be clear and concise. Avoid using jargon or technical language that your target audience may not understand.
  • Be honest and transparent. Don't make any promises that you can't keep.
  • Be respectful of your competitors. Don't make false or misleading claims about their products or services.
  • Cite your sources. If you're making a claim about the benefits of your product or service, have studies or testimonials to back it up.
  • Keep a copy of your ads. This will help you if you're ever accused of making false or misleading claims.

By following these tips, you can write website advertising copy that is both effective and legal.