UK. Internet ad for ringtone was misleading, says ASA

According to Out-Law.com, the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) ruled yesterday that an internet advert for “free” mobile phone content was misleading because it did not explain clearly enough that the content was only free if customers joined a subscription service.

"The ASA upheld complaints from two consumers who were charged after accepting an online offer from Boltblue for free ringtones or graphics. The customers complained that the online promotion did not make it clear that they had to join a subscription service in order to access the free downloads."

The issue was highlighted during the summer by complaints over the Crazy Frog ringtone, which many consumers bought at a cost of what they thought was £3, only to find that they had unwittingly signed up for a subscription service costing £3 per week.

emily | 5:05 PM | News, Buzz |
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