In online advertising, it is unethical and may even be illegal to exaggerate the effectiveness of products and mislead consumers into buying. The following are some common methods. Although these methods may bring about sales growth in the short term, in the long run, they will damage the brand reputation and may lead to legal consequences. Therefore, I strongly recommend not to use these methods, but to promote products in an honest and transparent manner. ### 1. **False propaganda** -**Exaggerated efficacy**: Claiming that the product has functions or effects that it does not actually have. For example, it is claimed that a certain skin care product can “instantly freckle” or “permanently anti-aging”, but in fact there is no scientific basis for these effects. -**Fictitious data**: Use false statistical data or user reviews to prove the effectiveness of the product. For example, fabricate false information such as “95% of users have seen significant results within three days”. ### 2. **Misleading pictures or videos** -**Excessive PS**: The use of over-processed pictures or videos to show the effect of the product makes consumers mistakenly think that the product can achieve the same effect. For example, use a comparison chart before and after Photoshop to show the “magical effects” of weight loss products or skin care products. -**False presentation**: Use special effects or props in video advertisements to create the illusion of product effects. For example, special props are used in advertisements for cleaning products to create the effect of “instant decontamination”. ### 3. **Withholding important information** -**Non-disclosure of side effects**: Deliberately do not mention the possible side effects or risks of the product, so that consumers can buy without their knowledge. For example, some weight loss products or health products may be harmful to the body, but they are not mentioned in the advertisement. -**Hidden conditions of use**: The specific conditions or restrictions on the use of the product are not mentioned in the advertisement. For example, some products may need to be used in a specific environment, or require long-term persistence to see results, but it is not stated in the advertisement. ### 4. **Take advantage of fear or anxiety** -**Create panic**: By creating fear or anxiety among consumers to prompt them to buy products. For example, it is claimed that “if you do not use this product, your skin will age faster” or “your health will be seriously threatened.” -**Exaggerate the risks**: Exaggerate the risks or consequences that may arise from not using the product, so that consumers feel that they must buy it immediately. ### 5. **False discounts or limited-time offers** -**False original price**: Deliberately increase the “original price” of the product and then sell it at a “discounted price”, making consumers mistakenly think that they have obtained a great discount. -**False limited-time offers**: Claiming that the offers are “only for today” or “only the last few items left”, in fact, these offers or inventory information are not true, the purpose is to create a sense of urgency and prompt consumers to place orders quickly. ### 6. **False user reviews** -**Brush praise**: By hiring the navy or using fake accounts to create a large number of positive reviews, consumers mistakenly think that the product is very popular and effective. -**Delete bad reviews**: Deliberately delete or hide real negative reviews, only show positive reviews, and mislead consumers about their true views on the product. ### 7. **Misleading comparison** - **Unfair comparison**: Unfairly compare products with competitors' products, exaggerate the advantages of one's own products, and belittle competitors' products. For example, use inaccurate test data or ignore the actual advantages of competitors' products. ### 8. **Use the celebrity effect** -**False endorsement**: Claiming that a celebrity or expert recommended a product, but in fact it was not recognized by them. Or, celebrities have not really used the product, but claim in advertisements that its effect is significant. ### Conclusion Although these methods may bring about sales growth in the short term, they can seriously damage brand reputation and may lead to legal proceedings and consumer dissatisfaction. In the long run, honest and transparent marketing strategies are the best way to build brand trust and loyalty. As consumers, we should also be vigilant, judge the information in advertisements rationally, and avoid being misled.