Secondary Ticket Retailer Faces Consequences for Deceptive Practices
- ASA orders search engines to block Viagogo adverts
- Viagogo accused of misleading pricing information
- ASA refers case to National Trading Standards for potential fines and legal action
- Ministers advise against using Viagogo
The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) has instructed search engines like Google and Bing to block ads from secondary ticket retailer Viagogo due to misleading pricing information. The ASA had previously warned Viagogo on March 23, 2018 to make compulsory fees clear by May 26, 2018 but found that the company failed to do so. As a result, the organization referred Viagogo to National Trading Standards (NTS) for investigation and potential penalties. ASA CEO Guy Parker stated that they gave the retailer a chance to rectify the issue but will now take action. Ads promoting specific tickets will be blocked, while those for the brand itself will not. Digital Minister Margot James advised against using Viagogo on BBC Radio 5 Live.
Factuality Level: 8
Factuality Justification: The article provides accurate and objective information about the ASA’s decision to block adverts by Viagogo due to non-compliance with its ruling. It also includes quotes from relevant sources such as the ASA CEO and a minister. However, it could be improved by providing more details on the specific issues with Viagogo’s pricing information and the consequences of the investigation.
Noise Level: 3
Noise Justification: The article provides relevant information about the Advertising Standards Authority’s actions against Viagogo and its failure to follow advertising rules. It also includes a statement from ASA CEO Guy Parker and Digital Minister Margot James. However, it lacks in-depth analysis or exploration of long-term consequences for the company.
Financial Relevance: Yes
Financial Markets Impacted: Secondary ticket retailer industry
Financial Rating Justification: The article discusses the Advertising Standards Authority’s actions against secondary ticket retailer Viagogo, which could impact the company’s financial performance and reputation in the industry.
Presence Of Extreme Event: No
Nature Of Extreme Event: Other
Impact Rating Of The Extreme Event: Minor
Extreme Rating Justification: There is no extreme event mentioned in the text. The article discusses a legal and judicial event involving Viagogo, a secondary ticket retailer, being told to block adverts by search engines due to misleading pricing information.
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