The CAP Code Update

From 1 March 2011, the Advertising Standards Agency ("ASA") will begin regulation of all websites, online advertisements and other marketing communications connected to companies, organisations and sole traders operating in the UK.

In an effort to raise the standards and ensure that they match those in other media, all online marketing will have to comply with the rules for advertisers and media owners set out in the CAP Code which currently applies to the more traditional advertising methods. The CAP Code is created, regulated and enforced by the self-regulatory body, the Committee of Advertising Practice ("CAP").

This significant development will apply to organisations’ websites and will cover all online marketing messages and other non-paid for space under their control including social networking sites such as Linked-In, Facebook and Twitter.

Following this development, Nelsons is offering a website health check for £200 plus VAT to ensure that your website complies with the CAP Code as well as other rules and regulations, including data protection and consumer protection legislation.

In the event that our review identifies any areas of your website which are non-compliant with relevant regulations we will advise you of the best course of action.

For further information on websites and online advertising please contact Shelley Marshall, a Solicitor in Nelsons' Commerce and Technology group, on 01332 378 642 or by email at shelley.marshall@nelsonslaw.co.uk