Social Media Mistakes That Can Get Your Business in Legal Trouble

Many people don't realize they are making social media mistakes that could get their companies in huge legal trouble. Social media can be great tool to implement in your business's marketing campaign. Engaging with your clients on a regular basis can generate sales for your business. It is extremely important that you organize your social media campaign the correct way. Our experienced attorneys at the Lake of the Ozarks are here to help you avoid making social media mistakes for your business. Making one of these mistakes could cost you thousands of dollars in a lawsuit.


Social Media Mistakes That Could Get You in Legal Trouble

Creating false testimonials for your business


There are companies who have their employees make up reviews on a regular basis and post them on their business's social media. If you do this you could be sued for a large amount of money. True reviews can be very influential and can sway potential clients to buy from your business. According to Inc., 84 percent of people trust online reviews just as much as their friends. Reviews can be very powerful, but they must be created the correct way.

 "When consumers see or hear an advertisement, whether it’s on the Internet, radio or television, or anywhere else, federal law says that ad must be truthful, not misleading, and, when appropriate, backed by scientific evidence. The Federal Trade Commission enforces these truth-in-advertising laws, and it applies the same standards no matter where an ad appears – in newspapers and magazines, online, in the mail, or on billboards or buses. The FTC looks especially closely at advertising claims that can affect consumers’ health or their pocketbooks – claims about food, over-the-counter drugs, dietary supplements, alcohol, and tobacco and on conduct related to high-tech products and the Internet. The FTC also monitors and writes reports about ad industry practices regarding the marketing of alcohol and tobacco." - Source: The Federal Trade Commission

Misunderstanding copyright law


Copyright can be complex and hard to understand. Unfortunately, if you are involved in a situation where someone is suing you for a copyright infringement, you can't just claim that you didn't understand copyright law. Educate yourself on these matters. Copyright law, in regard to social media photos, is meant to protect the creators of those photos. Too many businesses will go to Google and download images to use for their social media marketing campaigns. The truth is that this is not legally ok and can get you in serious legal trouble. If you are ever in doubt as to whether or not you can use a photo, ask permission from the creator. 

Making offensive comments on your business's social media


Examples of offensive comments on your business's social media pages can include:

  • racist comments
  • homophobic comments
  • sexist comments

The comments you make on your social media reflect who you are as a business. If you post offensive comments, it can lead to someone suing your business, can drastically affect your business's reputation, and can lead to a major decrease in sales. Treat others as you want to be treated and refrain from making a comment you think will offend someone on your business's social media.


Are You Worried That Your Social Media Campaign May Be in Violation of the Law?


Seek experienced legal help at the Lake of the Ozarks. Phillips, McElyea, Carpenter, and Welch is here to give you legal advice and help you to better understand legal boundaries. We have helped clients through a wide range of legal issues. Our knowledgeable lawyers are here to listen to your needs and help you obtain the best legal outcome. If you are in need of a free consultation, call our office at 573-346-7231.


Law Offices of Phillips, McElyea, Carpenter, & Welch, P.C.
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