Should Paddy Power Have a Harsher Penalty for False Advertising?

[lipstick_xoxos]

Paddy Power got censored by the UK Advertising Standards Authority (ASA).

Ads that were on TV and radio were told to withdraw them for misleading customers. Apparently the small print contradicted what the ad promoted and customers began to complain.

The promotion advertised an offer  betting on the Champion League final match between Manchester United and Barcelona. There would be refund for losing bets if Barcelona won in normal time with a maximum claim of £100.

Paddy Power claims it was never their intent to mislead the customers and that the text clearly stated the company would refund some and not all losing bets. They also stated that the adverts were shown on sports related channels and that the average viewer / listener would be aware of the common terms and conditions relating to such promotions.

By the time the ASA determines that some ads are misleading the campaign is over and by the controversy these advertisers receive it generates more publicity for the company.

Do you think there should be stricter rules for false advertising other then just a simple slap on the wrist, like a complete ban for any ads for a certain period of time?

Lips

[blueday]

I think they should pay hefty fines.  That would stop them "misleading the public" and make them a bit more careful with their terminology.

blue

[Johnny Karp]

Trust is an important aspect of this business and I think that the customers will make them pay sooner or later, regardless of the official fine.