The FTC requires that writers on the Web disclose any gratis or payments they receive from companies for reviewing their products–Federal Trade Commission
Unfortunately, certain bloggers and YouTube “gurus” are unaware of these LEGAL stipulations …or choose to ignore them. Without disclosure, subscribers cannot gauge whether a review has been ‘skewed’ by gratis/gifted product(s) or even payment ($$$). I’d like to address this and any other misconceptions about my websites.
The Basics -
- I receive no payment for writing IN MY KIT or the Playing With Makeup blog, so topics and content are entirely at my discretion.
- If I receive gratis products or free services in exchange for a review, I will ALWAYS disclose that information.
- Getting something for free will never influence my reviews. Good is good, bad is bad and my credibility always come first.
- Featured or “special” ingredients mentioned in my reviews come from the product’s retail packaging or a marketing sheet supplied by the company.
- If I post “claims” citing special attributes or abilities of a product, they have been provided by the company’s Marketing or PR). The credibility of these “claims” will be addressed in my review.
Reviews are based on -
- Personal observations after testing a product under normal working conditions.
- Consulting and comparing my observations with other professionals that have working experience with the product.
Very Important -
- FACT: My reviews are ONLY MY OPINIONS. I expect you to try these products/services for yourself and come to your own conclusions.
- FACT: People quoting your work is extremely flattering, plagiarism is not. To reproduce or reprint any information you have seen on my websites or blog, YOU MUST:
- Reference me using my full name – Kevin James Bennett.
- Include a reciprocal link back to my website or the blog post you have quoted.
- CONTACT ME as soon as it goes live and supply a link to the article.
- FACT: I am exceedingly thankful for your support and cooperation.