Advertising/Media
Hoaxes, fake news, clickbait - The legal implications and ethical considerations

By Kajal Sharma - 09 Feb 2024 04:41 PM
Although shockvertising certainly draws attention, it raises the question of whether it is a necessary evil for significant topics or if it runs the risk of taking advantage of tragedies and undermining public confidence in causes and businesses.Gaurav Arora, Co-Founder of Social Panga, notes that it is important to distinguish between shock advertising and the dissemination of fake news in the instance of Poonam Pandey's fake death, which was purportedly done to raise awareness about cervical cancer. He claims that the incidence raises questions about the authenticity of digital platforms as well as the veracity of advertising. It emphasizes how difficult it is to tell the truth in the digital age. He continues, "Shock advertising can raise awareness of significant issues, but it needs to be used with caution to preserve credibility for businesses and causes.When shock tactics backfire: The advertising industry may learn from the Poonam Pandey hoax case Heta Desai Baandal, Managing Director, Sociomark, believes that shock advertising is like a double-edged sword: while it certainly draws attention and generates conversation, brands must exercise caution to ensure their messages resonate authentically with their audience and uphold the integrity of the causes they support. Shock advertising may be an effective strategy for bringing attention to significant issues if used carefully and within acceptable bounds, but striking the correct balance takes a sophisticated approach."We now know what transpired when Poonam Pandey followed suit, or rather, we are still learning. If Shah Rukh Khan followed suit, what might happen? And if Rashmika Mandanna followed suit, what would happen? What would happen if Nayantara or Mohanlal followed suit? What would happen if Tata or Apple followed suit? I hope that everyone involved understands the message, says Origami Creative co-founder and director Laeeq Ali.According to Ovez Khan, CEO of Trivium Media Group, shockvertising is a contentious advertising strategy that uses unexpected, provocative, or disturbing components in campaigns to stand out from the crowd. It frequently aims to arouse strong feelings in viewers, enticing them to interact with the product or brand being promoted. When employing shockvertising tactics, it is imperative that a public figure such as Poonam Pandey retain an ethical and responsible stance.
We must exercise caution and give our audience's sensitivity first priority. In an attempt to defend the ad, Poonam said that its goal was to raise awareness of cervical cancer. Poonam attempted to craft a campaign that would strike a deep chord with her supporters by fusing shock with a poignant story.Although shockvertising certainly draws attention, it raises the question of whether it is a necessary evil for significant topics or if it runs the risk of taking advantage of tragedies and undermining public confidence in causes and businesses. Gaurav Arora, Co-Founder of Social Panga, notes that it is important to distinguish between shock advertising and the dissemination of fake news in the instance of Poonam Pandey's fake death, which was purportedly done to raise awareness about cervical cancer. He claims that the incidence raises questions about the authenticity of digital platforms as well as the veracity of advertising. It emphasizes how difficult it is to tell the truth in the digital age. He continues, "Shock advertising can raise awareness of significant issues, but it needs to be used with caution to preserve credibility for businesses and causes. Read additionally: When shock maneuvers