Norms to check misleading ads by social media influencers likely soon

Will include strict penal provisions, will have far-reaching impact, say experts

The Centre will soon come out with detailed guidelines for social media influencers that could include penal provisions under the Consumer Protection Act, senior officials have told Business Standard.

These provisions will include a penalty of Rs 10 lakh for first-time offenders, which could extend to Rs 20-50 lakh for repeat offenders.

The guidelines, which will be released in the next 7-10 days, will also make it mandatory for social media influencers to make disclosures about paid promotions for a brand. Or, they will have to disclose if they have any kind of monetary interest or otherwise in the product or service