Advertising Board imposes 32 million TL fine on automotive sector

The Ministry of Trade announced that at the Advertising Board meeting held on March 13, 131 out of 141 files were found to be in violation of regulations, and a total of 32 million 481 thousand 507 lira in administrative fines were issued for these files. Additionally, a precautionary suspension decision was taken for one file.

In the ministry's statement, it was pointed out that "zero percent interest" themed campaigns in the automotive sector manipulate consumers' economic choices. It was stated that although these campaigns impose a burden of upfront interest payments on consumers, the interest rate is stated as "zero percent" in the main message of the advertisements.

The Advertising Board decided to implement an administrative measure of access blocking in five files to prevent the misleading of consumers. Furthermore, it was stated that due to the lack of annual and monthly cost rates that must be specified in advertisements, consumers' ability to choose the most suitable loan offer was restricted.

As a result, it was determined that advertisements made with the promise of "zero percent interest" do not reflect the truth and mislead consumers, and it was decided to suspend such advertisements as a precautionary measure.

News Source: 12punto