The Authority added, “In light of the accelerating digital transformation that the communications and advertising sector is witnessing, the Authority notes with great concern the increase in some behaviors that are based on inflating indicators of follow-up and interaction across digital platforms by artificial means, by buying followers or using what are known as “click farms” with the aim of creating a misleading impression about the true size of the audience.”
The Independent National Authority for Audiovisual Control confirmed that these methods do not represent mere technical manipulation, but rather fall within practices that would harm the transparency of the advertising market, and directly affect the decisions of advertisers who rely in their investments on inaccurate indicators, leading to the waste of financial resources and undermining confidence in the media environment.
It also warned that exaggerating interaction indicators or providing unreliable data about follow-up rates may fall within the misleading advertising practices prohibited under Article 51 of the Book of Terms, as it constitutes a violation of the principles of fair competition that the Authority is keen to protect.
The authority explained to public opinion that, in the absence of a competent and accredited national institution in examining opinions and measuring viewership rates according to unified scientific standards in Algeria, the results and data being circulated cannot be considered a reliable reference, and are often used to justify inflating the prices of advertising space or exerting unjustified commercial pressure on advertisers.
It also warned that it places consumer protection and enhancing confidence in the media environment at the core of its priorities. It also called on television channels, advertising agencies and all actors to exercise a spirit of professional responsibility and adhere to the rules of transparency and integrity in advertising activity, in a way that preserves the economic balance of the sector and safeguards the rights of advertisers and the public alike.
Following the issuance of this statement, the Authority announced that it had taken the necessary regulatory measures regarding any transgression or violation, whether on screens or through the digital platforms of audiovisual communication service providers.
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