This far too scant-on-the-details piece from UK’s The Times claims that a new European directive makes posting glowing reviews online using a false identity a criminal offense across the continent.
Apparently, hotels, restaurants and online shops could face criminal prosecution next year if owners or employees (here I’m guessing because the article doesn’t exactly identify who gets covered by the directive) post positive information about their businesses using false identities. Businesses that write fake blogs, posting information that appears to be from consumers, are also covered.
The Times also claims that authors who praise their own books under a fake identity at online booksellers will likewise be subject to criminal charges.
I’m not sure what to make of this weird and probably unenforceable “directive.” What if a friend of a friend of a hotel owner posts a glowing review under a false name? Are they covered? What about all these bogus customer raves that appear on thousands of web sites (“I love your product! It took 20 years off of my face — Mary G.”) What if the site originates in the U.S., or the Grand Caymans?
Sounds like a toothless but earnest stab at trying to dampen the proliferation of false identities. But seriously, I need more information. (Hat tip to SmartMobs.)
Cynthia Brumfield at 4:20 PM|Comments(0)
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