BetFair Ad Banned By ASA
Published on by Becky M.
A Betfair advertisement, which was released in October 2015, has been banned by regulatory authorities. The television advert only generated one complaint, but this was enough to ensure that action was taken. The video ad was deemed to contain information that could be construed as misleading for those wishing to place bets on sporting events.
About The AD
The advertisement depicts a man who is a spectator at a football match. He receives a text alert on his mobile phone, and the message reads ‘Man Utd win 3-1, you win £120’. Sounds tempting, doesn’t it? This part of the commercial wasn’t thought to be the most misleading, it was the second message that caused concern.Later in the video, the man receives a second text. The message is: ‘New customer enhanced price. Liverpool V Rubin Kazan to win 4/1. £10 max stake on stated bet, winnings paid in cash, enhanced winnings paid in free bets within 24 hours, multiple bets excluded’.
What about the complaint?
The viewer who complained to the Advertising Standards Agency (ASA) believed the advertisement to be giving the impression that cash was on offer, when free bets were the prize for the ‘enhanced winnings’.The ASA investigated the complaint, on the basis of three criteria:*An advert should not give the wrong impression to viewers*Advertisers must be crystal clear on any rules or restrictions that apply to their products or services.*Companies broadcasting commercials are obliged to ensure that no important information is left out, or that it is difficult to understand. https://youtu.be/ossCgtGZanE
What did Betfair make of this ban?
Betfair maintained that the advertisement clearly explained the promotion, and the potential results for those who decided to take part. They said that they had provided all the information that was needed, and that they did not intend to mislead in any way.