Now, you can WhatsApp misleading ads to ASCI
14 Mar 2016
Consumers can now report misleading advertisements in print, on TV or on the internet to the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) through mobile messaging site WhatsApp.
Consumers can WhatsApp the objectionable advertisement to +91 77-100-12345, from where the ASCI would lodge 'suo moto' complaints.
Consumers can send pictures of print ads, hoardings, packaging or screen shots of websites, Links of YouTube videos etc and an ASCI team would scrutinise these and take the matter further if found valid, ASCI said in a statement.
"ASCI is empowering consumers by making it more accessible. Today almost every person with a smartphone is using messaging services such as WhatsApp. Technology makes it possible for them to flag false, misleading or offensive ads instantly and anytime, anywhere while on the go," ASCI chairman Benoy Roychowdhury said.
WhatsApp will serve as only the first touch point for consumers to reach ASCI with their main objections and images of the objectionable advertisement.
Last year, ASCI it had launched a mobile app to connect with the consumers and curb misleading advertisements.
