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Can I use social media to promote my business without violating advertising laws in Maryland? What are the requirements?

Requirements for Social Media Advertising in Maryland

If you are using social media to promote your business in Maryland, you must comply with the state’s advertising laws. The Maryland Consumer Protection Act (MCPA) prohibits unfair or deceptive trade practices, including false advertising [1.2].

To avoid violating the MCPA, you should ensure that your social media advertising is truthful and not misleading. You should also clearly disclose any material information about your products or services that could affect a consumer’s decision to purchase them [1.1].

Disclosure Requirements for Door-to-Door Solicitation

If you are engaging in door-to-door solicitation in Maryland, you must comply with the state’s disclosure requirements [1.1]. Specifically, you must provide consumers with a written disclosure statement that includes the following information:

  • A statement that a copy of the current financial statement of the individual or organization on whose behalf the solicitation is made is available on request
  • The name of the individual or organization on whose behalf the solicitation is made and the address and telephone number where requests for a copy of the financial statement should be directed

Additionally, you must provide consumers with a pledge form that includes information about their right to rescind a pledge made pursuant to a door-to-door solicitation and their right to a refund or return of any contribution made pursuant to a door-to-door solicitation if requested within 30 days after the contribution is made [1.3].

Conclusion

In summary, if you are using social media to promote your business in Maryland, you must ensure that your advertising is truthful and not misleading. If you are engaging in door-to-door solicitation, you must comply with the state’s disclosure requirements and provide consumers with a written disclosure statement and pledge form.

Source(s):
Jurisdiction

Maryland