DSSRC Case Decisions and Administratively Resolved Inquiry Summaries
Case Decisions
Case #153-2024: Monitoring Inquiry – Trades of Hope LLC
Trades of Hope LLC (“Trades of Hope” or the “Company”) is a multi-level direct selling company that specializes in the sale of an assortment of goods including jewelry, personal accessories, home decor, and coffee. According to its website, Trades of Hope purchases its products from local artisans around the globe, including from Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Uganda, Kenya, Peru,...
Case #152-2024: Administrative Closure – ibuumerang, Ltd
ibuumerang, Ltd (“ibuumerang” or the “Company”) is a direct selling company that offers discount travel for its members. The Company is headquartered in Houston, Texas and was founded in 2019.
Case #151-2024: Administrative Closure – Ruby Ribbon
Ruby Ribbon ("Company") is a multi-level direct selling company located in Burlingame, CA that was founded in 2011 and sells shapewear, athleisure, and intimates.
Case #150-2024: Administrative Closure – Vida Divina Worldwide, Inc.
Vida Divina Worldwide, Inc. (“Vida Divina” or the “Company”) is a direct selling company that markets health and wellness products, including beverages and nutritional supplements. The Company is headquartered in Ontario, Canada and was founded in 2016.
Case #149-2024: Administrative Closure – Innov8tive Nutrition
Innov8tive Nutrition ("Company") is a multi-level direct selling company that sells nutritional supplements and self-care products.
Case #148-2024: Monitoring Inquiry – LiveGood, Inc. USA
LiveGood Inc. USA (“LiveGood” or the “Company”) is a direct selling company that sells a variety of multivitamins and supplements with a focus on sleep aids, inflammation management, muscle recovery and weight management. The Company is headquartered in Jupiter, Florida and was founded in 2022.
Case #147-2024: Monitoring Inquiry – PaperPie f/k/a Usborne Books & More
PaperPie f/k/a Usborne Books & More (“PaperPie” or the “Company”) is a direct selling company that was founded in 1989 and based in Tulsa, Oklahoma.1 The Company distributes children’s books and educational products.
Case #146-2023: Administrative Closure – Enzacta USA
Enzacta USA (“Enzacta or the “Company”) is a direct selling company that sells nutritional and wellness products. The Company is headquartered in Cheyenne, Wyoming and was founded in 2003.
Case #145-2023: Administrative Closure – Tranont
Tranont (or the “Company”) is a multi-level direct selling company based in Utah. Founded in 2013, the Company sells health and wellness products, including a line of CBD products.
Case #144-2023: NGO Inquiry – Modere USA, Inc.
Modere USA, Inc. (“Modere” or the “Company”) is a direct selling company founded in 2012 and based in Newport Beach, California that markets health, beauty, and wellness products.
Case #143-2023: Administrative Closure – Traveling Vineyards
Traveling Vineyards (or the “Company”) was a direct selling company based in Ipswich, Massachusetts. The Company was established in 2010 and sells boutique wines.
Case #142-2023: Administrative Closure – Globallee, Inc.
Globallee, Inc. (“Globallee” or the “Company”) is a direct selling company located in Irving, Texas, founded in 2019. The Company sells various health and wellness supplements and has offices in Japan, Canada, Australia, and the United States.
Case #141-2023: Administrative Closure – Red Aspen, LLC
Red Aspen, LLC, (“Red Aspen” or the “Company”) is a direct selling company that markets beauty and cosmetic products. The Company is headquartered in Meridian, Idaho and was founded in 2017.
Case #140-2023: Administrative Closure – Younique, LLC
Younique, LLC (or the “Company”) is a direct-selling company based in Utah that sells beauty products.
Case #139-2023: NGO Inquiry – Elomir, Inc.
Elomir, Inc. (“Elomir” or the “Company”) sells nutritional supplements including its flagship product, Axis Klärity. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring process, which monitors advertising and marketing claims disseminated by direct selling companies and their salesforce members.
Case #138-2023: Monitoring Inquiry – Thrive Life, LLC
Thrive Life, LLC is a direct selling company that manufactures and markets freeze-dried and rehydrated foods. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring process, which monitors advertising and marketing claims disseminated by direct selling companies and their salesforce members.
Case #137-2023: Administrative Closure – Herbalife International of America, Inc.
Herbalife International of America, Inc., (“Herbalife” or the “Company”) is a direct selling company that sells nutritional and wellness products. The Company is headquartered in Los Angeles, California and was founded in 1980.
Case #136-2023: Administrative Closure – Grace & Heart
Grace & Heart (or the “Company”) was a direct selling company based in California. The Company was established in 2015 and sold fashion jewelry.
Case #135-2023: Administrative Closure – Global Domains International
Global Domains International is a direct-selling company based in California that sells domain names via an affiliate network. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring process, which monitors advertising and marketing claims disseminated by direct selling companies and their salesforce members.
Case #134-2023: Compliance Inquiry – B-Epic Worldwide, LLC
B-Epic Worldwide LLC is a Utah-based multi-level marketing company that sells health and wellness products. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising in the direct selling marketplace.
Case #133-2023: Government Referral – Sweet Minerals, LLC
Sweet Minerals, LLC (“Sweet Minerals” or the “Company”) is a direct selling company based in Pasadena, Maryland. The company was founded in 2011 and markets makeup, personal care, skin care, and cosmetic products.
Case #132-2023: Administrative Closure – jBloom Designs
jBloom Designs (“jBloom” or the “Company”) is a multi-level marketing company that sells custom jewelry. The Company is headquartered in St. Peters, MO and founded in 2013.
Case #131-2023: Compliance Inquiry – Seint Beauty
Case #130-2023: Monitoring Inquiry – Healy World
Healy World, Inc. (“Healy World” or the “Company”) is a direct selling company based in Mainz, Germany with its domestic headquarters in Orlando, Florida.
Case #129-2023: Monitoring Inquiry – Zinzino, LLC
Zinzino, LLC (“Zinzino” or the “Company”) is a direct selling company founded in 2005 that offers nutritional supplements to consumers. The Company is headquartered in Frölunda, Sweden and has a subsidiary in Jupiter, Florida.
Case #128-2023: Compliance Report – The Juice Plus+ Company, LLC
The Juice Plus+ Company, LLC (“JuicePlus” or the “Company”) is a direct selling company founded in 1970 and based in Collierville, Tennessee. The Company markets fruit and vegetable juice extract supplements.
Case #127-2023: Administrative Closure – Traci Lynn Jewelry
Traci Lynn Jewelry (or the “Company”) was a direct selling company based in Florida. The Company was established in 1989 and sold affordable fashion jewelry.
Case #126-2023: Monitoring Inquiry – Zallevo, LLC
Zallevo, LLC (“Zallevo” or the “Company”) is a direct selling company founded in 2020 and based in St. George, Utah. The Company markets health and wellness products focusing on weight loss and anxiety/stress reduction.
Case #125-2023: Monitoring Inquiry – Pink Zebra
Pink Zebra At Home (or the “Company”) is a direct selling company founded in 2011 and based in Sugar Land, Texas. The Company markets home fragrance and décor products including a wide range of items such as scented wax melts, candles, reed diffusers, room sprays, and other related accessories.
Case #124-2023: Government Referral – Tori Belle Cosmetics
Tori Belle Cosmetics (“Tori Belle” or the “Company”) is a direct-selling company founded in 2019 and based in Woodinville, Washington. The Company markets beauty and cosmetic products.
Case #123-2023: Administrative Closure – Seint Beauty
Seint Beauty (“Seint” or the “Company”), formerly Maskcara Beauty, is a multi-level marketing company founded in 2013 and based in St. George, Utah. The Company markets consumer and personal care products with a focus on cosmetics and cosmetic accessories.
Case #122-2023: Government Referral – iCoinPro
iCoinPro (or the “Company”) is a multi-level direct selling company that markets education, information, and training for cryptocurrency services. The Company was founded in 2017 and is located in Carson City, Nevada.
Case #120-2023: Monitoring Inquiry – Pure Haven, LLC
Pure Haven, LLC (“Pure Haven” or the “Company”) is a direct-selling company founded in 2009 and based in Rhode Island. The Company markets household products and personal care products to consumers including a line of skin care products.
Case #119-2023: Government Referral – Wayal Health Sciences USA, Inc.
Wayal Health Sciences USA, Inc., (“Wayal Health” or the “Company”) is a multi-level direct selling company founded in 2016. The Company is headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah and markets health and wellness nutritional supplements.
Case #118-2023: Administrative Closure – Daxen, Inc.
Unicity International, Inc. (“Unicity” or the “Company”) is a multi-level marketing company headquartered in Orem, Utah and founded in 1986. The Company markets nutritional and personal care products and operates in approximately 30 countries, including the United States, Australia, Brazil, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Colombia, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand,...
Case #117-2023: Administrative Closure – Unicity International, Inc.
Unicity International, Inc. (“Unicity” or the “Company”) is a multi-level marketing company headquartered in Orem, Utah and founded in 1986. The Company markets nutritional and personal care products and operates in approximately 30 countries, including the United States, Australia, Brazil, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Colombia, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, New...
Case #116-2023: Administrative Closure – GelMoment, Inc.
GelMoment, Inc. (“GelMoment” or the “Company”) is a direct-selling company founded in 2014 and based in Montreal, Canada. The Company markets gel nail polish and other beauty products.
Case #115-2023: NGO Inquiry – The Juice Plus+ Company, LLC
The Juice Plus+ Company, LLC is a direct selling company founded in 1970 and based in Collierville, Tennessee. The Company markets fruit and vegetable juice extract supplements. An NGO identified to DSSRC certain earnings and product performance claims disseminated by salesforce members and the Company.
Case #114-2023: Administrative Closure – Reliv International, Inc.
Reliv International, Inc. is a direct-selling company founded in 1988, and based in Chesterfield, Missouri. The Company markets proprietary nutritional supplements. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of the direct selling marketplace.
Case #113-2023: Administrative Closure – Vic Beauty, LLC
Vic Beauty, LLC was a direct sales cosmetic and personal care company based in Los Angeles, California. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #112-2023: Compliance Inquiry – Magnetude Jewelry
Magnetude Jewelry (or the “Company”) is a multi-level direct selling company based in Maryland that sells bio-magnetic interchangeable fashion jewelry to consumers. According to the Company’s website, the Company’s independent representatives earn money through commission on product sales or recruiting other salesforce members.
Case #111-2023: Administrative Closure – Shaklee Corporation
Shaklee Corporation (“Shaklee” or the “Company”) is a direct-selling company founded in 1956 and based in Pleasanton, CA. The Company markets natural nutritional supplements, beauty products, and household products.
Case #110-2023: Administrative Closure – Prime My Body
Prime My Body LLC (“Prime My Body” or the “Company”) is a direct-selling company based in Carrollton, Texas. The company was founded in 2013 and sells CBD oils and other nutritional products.
Case #109-2023: Administrative Closure – Direct Cellars
Case #108-2023: Administrative Closure – Save the Day Seasonings
Case #107-2023: Administrative Closure – BeneYOU LLC (a/k/a Avisae)
BeneYOU LLC (a/k/a Avisae) (“BeneYOU” or the “Company”) is a direct selling company headquartered in Lindon, Utah, that acquired the Avisae brand in 2018. The company markets personal care and wellness products.
Case #106-2023: Monitoring Inquiry – Magneceutical Health, LLC
Magneceutical Health, LLC (“Magneceutical Health” or the “Company”) is a company headquartered in Clearwater, FL that markets a medical device called the Magnesphere, which is a magnetic resonance therapy system designed to help reduce the symptoms associated with chronic stress.
Case #105-2023: Monitoring Inquiry – Peach Underneath, Inc.
Peach Underneath, Inc. (“Peach Underneath” or “the Company”) was a multilevel marketing company headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts that marketed premium, athletic-inspired clothing and intimate apparel.
Case #104-2023: Government Referral – Karatbars International
Karatbars International is a multi-level direct selling company founded in 2011 that markets small gold bars and gift items in gold bullion. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #103-2023: Monitoring Inquiry – Essential Bodywear, LLC
Essential Bodywear, LLC is a direct selling company founded in 2003 and headquartered in Commerce, Michigan. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #102-2023: Compliance Inquiry – Innov8tive Nutrition, Inc.
Innov8tive Nutrition is a direct selling company that was founded in 2016 and is headquartered in Seattle, Washington. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #101-2023: Monitoring Inquiry – NeVetica International, Inc.
NeVetica International, Inc. is a direct selling company headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky and founded in 2016. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #100-2022: Monitoring Inquiry – Youngevity International, Inc.
Youngevity International, Inc. is a direct selling company that sells health, nutrition, and wellness products. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #99-2023: Government Referral – Perfectly Posh, LLC
Perfectly Posh, LLC is a direct selling company based in Salt Lake City, Utah that markets personal care and beauty products. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #98-2022: Monitoring Inquiry – Ruby Ribbon, Inc.
Ruby Ribbon, Inc. is a multi-level marketing company that markets women’s apparel, handbags, and other accessories. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #97-2022: Administrative Closure – Unicity International, Inc.
Unicity International, Inc. is a multi-level marketing company that markets nutritional and personal care products and operates in approximately 30 countries. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #96-2022: Government Referral – ViSalus, Inc.
ViSalus, Inc. is a multilevel marketing company that markets weight management nutritional products, dietary supplements, and energy drinks. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #95-2022: Monitoring Inquiry – PartyLite Worldwide, LLC
PartyLite Worldwide, LLC is a multi-level marketing company that markets candles, home décor, and home fragrance products. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #94-2022: Administrative Closure – Tealightful Treasures, Inc.
Tealightful Treasures, Inc. is a retail company with a direct-to-consumer website that markets several varieties of loose-leaf tea products. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #93-2022: Administrative Closure – Ardyss International, LLC
Ardyss International LLC is a multi-level marketing company that markets reshaping apparel, nutrition, personal care, and home care products.This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #92-2022: Administrative Closure – Sunrider International
Sunrider International is a multi-level marketing company that markets herbal food and beverages, nutritional supplements, and skin care and personal care products.This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #91-2022: Monitoring Inquiry – Kannaway, LLC
Kannaway, LLC is a direct selling company headquartered in Poway, CA that sells CBD and wellness products to consumers. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent...
Case #90-2022: Monitoring Inquiry – Zilis LLC
Zilis LLC is a multi-level direct-selling company headquartered in Argyle, Texas that sells wellness products to consumers.
Case #89-2022: Monitoring Inquiry – My Lala Leggings, Inc.
My Lala Leggings, Inc. is a multi-level marketing company headquartered in Palmdale, CA that sells women’s clothing, specializing in leggings.
Case #88-2022: Monitoring Inquiry – B-Epic Worldwide, LLC
B-Epic Worldwide, LLC is a multi-level direct-selling company located in Layton, Utah that markets health, detox, and fitness products.
Case #87-2022: Monitoring Inquiry – MWR Life, LLC
MWR Life, LLC is a multi-level direct selling company headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Florida that offers discounts on travel services such as flights, hotels, resorts, cruises, vacation rentals, car rentals, excursions, theme parks, and trains. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling...
Case #86-2022: Monitoring Inquiry – Visi
Visi is a direct-selling company headquartered in Pleasant Grove, Utah specializing in a variety of health-related products, including protein, essential oils, and extracts. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring process, which monitors advertising and marketing claims made in the direct selling industry.
Case #85-2022: Monitoring Inquiry – Reliv International, Inc.
Reliv International, Inc. is a multilevel direct-selling company located in Chesterfield, Missouri that markets and distributes nutritional supplements and personal care products. This...
Case #84-2022: Monitoring Inquiry – Navan Global
Navan Global was a multilevel marketing company located in Franklin, Tennessee, manufacturing and distributing health and CBD-related products. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its...
Case #83-2022: Government Referral – Root Wellness LLC, a/k/a Root Brands
Root Wellness LLC is a direct-selling company founded in 2019 and located in Brentwood, Tennessee. The Company markets health and wellness products, most notably its Clean Slate, Restore, and Zero-In products. In February 2021, DSSRC initiated an inquiry regarding the dissemination of health-related claims by Root Wellness and its salesforce members and opened a...
Case #82-2022: Administrative Closure – LurraLife Global
LurraLife Global was a multi-level direct-selling company that marketed health and wellness products, including detoxification tea, to consumers. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #81-2022: Administrative Closure – QuiAri, LLC
QuiAri, LLC is a multi-level direct-selling company in Brandon, Florida, that markets health and wellness products. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #80-2022: Government Referral – Fifth Avenue Collection, Inc.
Fifth Avenue Collection is a multi-level direct-selling company that sells fashion jewelry products headquartered in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) commenced this inquiry pursuant to its ongoing, independent monitoring of advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #79-2022 – Government Referral – Vyvo, Inc.
Vyvo, Inc. is a multi-level direct selling company that markets a smart watch, DNA and genetics testing, and nutritional supplements. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising in the direct selling marketplace and concerns earnings claims disseminated by the Company and its salesforce members.
Case #78-2022 – Monitoring Inquiry – H20 At Home
H2O At Home is a multilevel marketing company headquartered in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania that offers consumers a line of non-toxic cleaning solutions. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC...
Case #77-2022 – Compliance Inquiry – Root Wellness LLC
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) opened a compliance inquiry against Root Wellness after health-related product claims similar to those addressed in a 2021 inquiry appeared in the social media posts of Root Wellness salesforce members. In addition, during its inquiry DSSRC identified more than 30 other related issues.
Case #76-2022 – Monitoring Inquiry – Sanki Global LLC
This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry. Sanki Global LLC is a multi-level direct selling company headquartered in Japan, with U.S. offices located in Henderson, Nevada.
Case #75-2022 – Monitoring Inquiry – Tranont
This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry. Tranont is a multi-level direct selling company based in Utah. Founded in 2013, the Company sells health and wellness products, including a line of CBD products.
Case #74-2022 – Monitoring Inquiry – Opulence Global
Opulence Global is a multi-level direct selling company that sells skincare, personal care, and health & wellness products. This inquiry concerns product and earnings claims disseminated by salesforce members on social media regarding the Fountain of Life product, an antioxidant that includes a Picea Abies extract as one of its primary...
Case #73-2022 – Monitoring Inquiry – Financial Education Services
Financial Education Services is a multi-level direct selling company that markets credit repair services to consumers. This inquiry concerns earnings claims disseminated by company salesforce members on social media.
Case #72-2022 – Monitoring Inquiry – Stella & DOT, LLC
Stella & DOT, LLC is a multi-level direct selling company that sells jewelry, bags, accessories, and women’s clothing. The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) began this inquiry pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry. This inquiry concerns earnings claims disseminated by Stella & DOT and its...
Case #71-2022 – Monitoring Inquiry – Lifebrook, LLC
Lifebrook was a multilevel marketing company headquartered in Vermillion, South Dakota that sells juices, supplements, and other products containing Aronia. The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) began this inquiry pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #70-2022 – Monitoring Inquiry – My Lala Leggings, Inc.
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) is a national advertising self-regulation program administered by BBB National Programs. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #69-2022 – Monitoring Inquiry – Max International, LLC
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) is a national advertising self-regulation program administered by BBB National Programs. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #68-2022 – Monitoring Inquiry – Daxen, Inc.
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) is a national advertising self-regulation program administered by BBB National Programs. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #67-2022 – Monitoring Inquiry – WorldVentures Marketing, LLC
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) is a national advertising self-regulation program administered by BBB National Programs. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #66-2022 – Monitoring Inquiry – Tastefully Simple
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) is a national advertising self-regulation program administered by BBB National Programs. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #65-2022 – Government Referral – FutureNet, Inc.
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) is a national advertising self-regulation program administered by BBB National Programs.
Case #64-2022 – Compliance Report – Young Living Essential Oils, LLC
Young Living Essential Oils, LLC (“Young Living” or the “Company”) is a global multi-level direct selling company that sells essential oils and other personal care and wellness products.
Case #63-2022 – Monitoring Inquiry – Innov8tive Nutrition
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) is a national advertising self-regulation program administered by BBB National Programs. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #62-2022 – Monitoring Inquiry – MWC Living, LLC d/b/a BE (Better Experience)
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) is a national advertising self-regulation program administered by BBB National Programs and commenced this inquiry pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #61-2022 – Compliance Report – Mary Kay, Inc.
Mary Kay, Inc.’s (“Mary Kay” or the “Company) business model is that of a direct sales company, which means Mary Kay products are sold by Mary Kay independent sales force members, person to person, away from fixed retail locations. The Company is headquartered in Dallas, Texas. Mary Kay was founded in 1963 and has an estimated three million independent beauty consultants selling Mary Kay®...
Case #60-2022 – Monitoring Inquiry – Morinda, Inc., Corporation
Morinda, Inc. is a multi-level direct-selling company that markets a noni juice blend (Tahitian Noni) and various dietary supplements, personal care products, and essential oils. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #59-2022 – Government Referral – BE Rules, a/k/a BE Factor, f/k/a Melius
BE Rules, a/k/a BE Factor, f/k/a Melius (“BE” or the “Company”) is a multi-level direct selling company that markets forex and cryptocurrency trading package subscriptions. BE Rules is based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates and also maintains offices in India and the United Kingdom.[1] The Company maintains a Facebook page[2], an Instagram page[3], a company...
Case #58-2022 – Monitoring Inquiry – Surge365
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) is a national advertising self-regulation program administered by BBB National Programs. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #57-2022 – Compliance Report – Le-Vel Brands, LLC
Le-Vel Brands, LLC (“Le-Vel” or the “Company) is a multi-level direct selling company headquartered in Frisco, Texas that was founded in 2012. The Company sells health and wellness products including dietary supplements containing vitamins, minerals, plant extracts, antioxidants, enzymes, probiotics, and amino acids.
Case #56-2022 – Monitoring Inquiry – Immunotec
Case #55-2021 – Monitoring Inquiry – Wildtree, Inc.
Wildtree, Inc. is a spice and seasoning company headquartered in Lincoln, Rhode Island that specializes in healthy meal solutions for families. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #54-2021: Government Referral – Dot Dot Smile
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) is a national advertising self-regulation program administered by BBB National Programs. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #53-2021: Monitoring Inquiry – Jeunesse Global
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) opened a monitoring inquiry with Jeunesse Global over concerns about earnings claims disseminated by salesforce members for the company. DSSRC appreciated Jeunesse’s good faith actions to remove the challenged claims on social media sites, but DSSRC recommended Jeunesse continue its communication with salesforce members to ensure that...
Case #52-2021: Monitoring Inquiry – Daxen, Inc.
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) is a national advertising self-regulation program administered by BBB National Programs. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #51-2021: Compliance Report – dōTERRA International, LLC
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) is a national advertising self-regulation program administered by BBB National Programs. In 2019, DSSRC commenced an inquiry regarding several core health-related and income claims being disseminated on the social media pages of certain distributors of dōTERRA. More specifically, the inquiry included both...
Case #50-2021: Monitoring Inquiry – Chalk Couture
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) is a national advertising self-regulation program administered by BBB National Programs. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #49-2021: Monitoring Inquiry – Lifebrook, LLC
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) is a national advertising self-regulation program administered by BBB National Programs. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #48-2021: Government Referral – Q Sciences
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) is a national advertising self-regulation program administered by BBB National Programs. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #47-2021: –Monitoring Inquiry– Root Wellness, LLC
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) is a national advertising self-regulation program administered by BBB National Programs. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #46-2021: –Monitoring Inquiry– SwissJust USA
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) is a national advertising self-regulation program administered by BBB National Programs. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #45-2021 – Monitoring Inquiry – Globallee, Inc.
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) is a national advertising self-regulation program administered by BBB National Programs. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #44-2021 – Government Referral – ByDzyne
Case #43-2021 – Monitoring Inquiry – Limbic Arc, LLC
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) is a national advertising self-regulation program administered by BBB National Programs, Inc. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #42-2021 –Monitoring Inquiry– Max International, LLC
Case #41-2021 – Government Referral – Alliance in Motion Global, Inc.
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) is a national advertising self-regulation program administered by BBB National Programs. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #40-2021 – NGO Inquiry –Mary Kay, Inc.
Case #39-2021: –Monitoring Inquiry– Enagic, USA, Inc.
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) is a national advertising self-regulation program administered by BBB National Programs. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #38-2021: –Monitoring Inquiry– Zinzino, LLC.
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) is a national advertising self-regulation program administered by BBB National Programs. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #37-2021: –Monitoring Inquiry– Aihu, Inc.
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) is a national advertising self-regulation program administered by BBB National Programs. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #36-2021: – Government Referral – Bulavita
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) is a national advertising self- regulation program administered by BBB National Programs. This inquiry was commenced by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Case #35-2021: – Government Referral – UWell Life, Inc.
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Administratively Resolved Inquiry Summaries
Case #18-2020 -Monitoring Inquiry- Tranont
BBB NATIONAL PROGRAMS, INC.
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council
Case Number: 18-2020 – Monitoring Inquiry – Tranont
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
Tranont (or the “Company”) is a multi-level direct selling company based in Utah. Founded in 2014, the Company sells health and wellness products and financial products like estate plans, tax products, credit products, protection against identity theft and more.
BASIS OF INQUIRY
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) is a national advertising self-regulation program administered by BBB National Programs, Inc. This inquiry was commenced by the DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing independent monitoring of advertising and marketing claims in the direct selling industry.
Specifically, DSSRC identified several core product claims and earnings claims as well as representations regarding bonuses and incentives that are being disseminated on social media Company Associates.
The representative claims that were the subject this inquiry are as follows:
A. Health-Related/ Disease Claims
- “JUST BEING REAL!!! WITH EYES EARS MIND WIDE OPEN!!! WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO PROTECT YOU & YOUR LOVE ONES???
What Am I Doing to Protect My Ohana?
Life🌿 Vibe🌿 Balance🌿 Restore🌿 Radiant 🌿 Icaria Glow 🌿 TechNo Boost 🌿 CBD Fluid *Not Oil* Süthe 🌿 Serene CBD Spray 🌿 Releaf CBD Muscle Rub 🌿
If China Couldn't contain the Coronavirus do you think Hawaii can?
Hell No!!! I'm not listening to our CDC or State!! You kidding me!! Am I scared?? NO!! I'm just being REALLLLL!!!!!
My Mom is 78 and is in the BEST HEALTH EVER with these Enzymes! As well as the rest of my Ohana..
I'm afraid for the newborns. But I got them covered ❤
The last time I was sick? Was early June 2019 then I've started My Enzymes late June that's when I've joined "Tranont Health & Wealth" their products our 100% Organic all Natural Whole Plant! What I call Plant Medicine! 🌿❤
Til this Day! I've NEVER GOTTIN SICK!
If I feel a cold coming on? I take extra Balance & Restore & Vibe & Süthe! Bomb Gone! Love It!
ARE YOU COVERED? HOW ARE YOU PROTECTING YOUR OHANA (FAMILY)?
ARE YOU PREPARED? DON'T WAIT! DO SOMETHING!!
Life 🌿 Vibe 🌿 Balance 🌿 Restore 🌿 Icaria Glow 🌿 Radiant 🌿 TechNo Boost 🌿
B. Earnings Claims and Bonus and Incentive Claims
- "Earn $37,000 in bonuses your first year as a Business Builder”
- "Be a top performer and earn exclusive incentive trips and getaways”
- "Receive Monthly Leadership Bonuses up to $50,000”
- "Get a $500/mo Jeep® Bonus”
- YouTube video depicting incentive trip to Barcelona, Rome, Naples, Mallorca, Pisa, and Cannes
- “Get paid to drive a Jeep”; “residual income”; “#millionaire”; “#wealth”
- “So happy for this opportunity! Changing my life! “#puerto rico”; “#san juan”; “#paradise”; “#early retirement” #getpaidtodriveajeep”.
- “If you want a Jeep paid for or just want residual income and are serious then DM me and let’s chat!”; “#financial freedom”; “#tranont”; “#financialfreedom”; “#wealth”.
- “GET 𝙋𝘼𝙄𝘿 $𝟲𝟬𝟬 A 𝗠𝗢𝗡𝗧𝗛 TO DRIVE A 𝗡𝗘𝗪 𝗝𝗘𝗘𝗣”; “#Jeep4you”; “#healthwealthcommunity”; “#finacialfreedom” “#jeep4u”; “#tranont”; “#financial freedom”; “#wealth”.
- “#recruiting”; “#millionairemindset”; “#6figureincome”; “#6figuresummer”
- “##financialfreedom”; “#changelives”
- “passive income”
- “Congrats on getting paid to drive YOUR NEW JEEP!!
#Jeep #Tranont #financialfreedom”
“Do you want money for school? To pay back student loans? Do you want financial stability, job security? Then Tranont is for you! Learn how to accomplish all these things and be your own boss!”
- “Featured jeep paid for by tranont driven by Dustin Earl! 👌👌👍👍☺️☺️ #tranont #jeep4free”
- “Get paid to drive a jeep”; “"Blueberries can protect against cardiovascular disease, cancer, and accelerated aging.”
- “You would like to be paid up to $ 600 per month for a Jeep plus extra money.”
- “Within his first 2 weeks he is extremely close to hitting the Jeep position. That means Tranont will literally pay him to drive a Jeep!🔥 Don’t Be left behind!🚙💥 #Tranont#Whowantsone?”.
- “#milliondollardaddy”; “#Tranont”
- Who would have thought I could get my jeep paid for just after 3 months of joining @tranont 🙌🏼 How you like those apple's lol hit me up if your interested in Getting your Jeep Paid 4 Every Month... #tranont”; “Driving a dope jeep for free and cashing checks on top of that.”
COMPANY’S POSITION
Tranont informed DSSRC that it takes several steps in order to mitigate wrongful activity by its Associates. Specifically, the Company uses software that searches the internet in order to take down noncompliant posts. Tranont’s software can be altered to specifically target suspect problem areas and when the Company finds problems regarding product or income claims, the compliance team reaches out to help educate and occasionally discipline Associates.
A. Health-Related / Disease Claims:
Tranont stated that its products are not intended to diagnose treat, cure or prevent any disease and that the Company makes every effort to ensure that its products and marketing materials include accurate and non-misleading information. Tranont stated that it also consults with regulatory experts regarding the appropriate representations for its products.
Tranont explained that every independent contractor is required to sign an Associate Agreement (the “Agreement”) when they sign up with the Company. The Agreement spells out the different policies and procedures related to the sale and promotion of Tranont products. The Company provided several relevant provisions of the Agreement to DSSRC:
“…Claims and representations Concerning Tranont Products: Associates may not use, and Tranont does not support the use of any content that violates federal, state, province, or local laws, including those laws declared by the FDA and FTC and other regulatory bodies.
…Tranont is a values-based company that prides itself on the quality and character of its Associates. Thus, Tranont expects its Associates to conduct themselves in accordance with the highest standard of ethical behavior. The following guidelines help insure a uniform standard of excellence throughout our organization. Every Tranont Associate is expected to practice the following ethical behavior when acting in the name of the company. Violations of the Code of Ethics may subject the Associates to disciplinary action by the Company depending on the severity of the violation. The following guidelines help ensure a uniform standard of excellence throughout the Tranont organization:
“All Associates should: Be truthful in representations of Tranont Products and Services. Do not make exaggerated financial or product claims…All Associates should: Accurately teach and represent the Tranont Compensation Plan. Be honest in explaining the income one may earn under the Compensation Plan. Associates should not use their own income as an indication of other potential success or use compensation checks as marketing materials.”
With respect to the disease claim identified by DSSRC, Tranont stated that its compliance department immediately reached out to the Associate who posted the improper claim and had the claim removed. The Tranont compliance team reminded and educated the Associate of Tranont’s policies regarding product claims.
B. Earnings Claims and Bonus and Incentive Claims
Tranont informed DSSRC that it takes every opportunity to train its leadership and Associates on how to abide by the law including monthly leadership calls where it discusses current compliance concerns, including product and income claims. Tranont also trains its salesforce at its bi-annual national conventions.
Tranont also made several revisions to its website regarding earnings claims.
The Company website states that “The ability to earn income under the Tranont compensation plan depends on many factors including an individual Associate’s business, social and sales skills; personal ambition and activity; availability of time and financial resources; and access to a large network of business contracts. Tranont does not guarantee any particular level of income. Even Associates who dedicate a significant amount of time, effort, and personal funds may not achieve success.”
With respect to the earnings claims at issue, the Company informed DSSRC that it reached out to its Associates with respect to every post that was brought to its attention and will continue dialog with the Associates until all of the posts are removed. Tranont asserted that it is doubling its efforts to educate its field and discipline repeat offenders where necessary.
ANALYSIS
DSSRC acknowledged the steps taken by Tranont to address the claims DSSRC brought to its attention and noted the Company did not dispute the inaccuracy of the messages communicated by its salesforce.
- Health-Related / Disease Claims
DSSRC confirmed that upon receipt of the inquiry the Tranont immediately reached out to the Associate responsible for the claim implying that its products can treat the coronavirus and had the post removed. In particular, DSSRC found that the removal of the disease claim was necessary and appropriate because the claim could be reasonably interpreted as an unsupported health-related drug claim. According to the World Health Organization, there are no current cures or direct treatments for the novel coronavirus. Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration have both stated that there are no approved vaccines, drugs, or investigational products currently available to treat or prevent COVID-19.
- Earnings Claims and Bonus and Incentive Claims
Although DSSRC recognized the policies that Tranont has in place to address unauthorized earnings claims and appreciated the Company’s actions to remove several of the unqualified income and bonus and incentive claims that were brought to its attention, DSSRC also determined that, despite the Company’s efforts, claims similar to those DSSRC brought to the Company’s attention continue to proliferate.
According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), a company must have a reasonable basis for the claims it makes or disseminates to consumers about its business opportunity. A “reasonable basis” means objective evidence that supports the claim. If a company lacks such objective supporting evidence, the claims are likely deceptive. Some business opportunities may present themselves as a way for participants to get rich or lead a wealthy lifestyle. They may make such representations through words or through images such as expensive houses, luxury automobiles, and exotic vacations. If participants generally do not achieve these results, these representations likely would be false or misleading. Some claims may convey that participants, while not necessarily becoming wealthy, can achieve career-level or full-time income. They may represent through words or images that participants can earn thousands of dollars a month, quit their jobs, “fire” their bosses, or become stay-at-home parents. Here too, if participants generally do not achieve such results, these representations likely would be false or misleading.[1]
DSSRC has stated in previous decisions that a direct selling company is responsible for the claims and representations made by its distributors. Moreover, a direct selling company’s representations and messaging concerning the business opportunity it offers must be truthful and non-misleading to avoid being deceptive under Section 5 of the FTC Act.[2]Moreover, in determining the implied claims that a reasonable person may interpret from a social media post, DSSRC will consider not only at an isolated word or claim but also the images and language (e.g., hashtags) that accompany the post as well as previous posts that have been made by a distributor.
In addition, DSSRC has also noted in previous decisions that an advertisement containing an endorsement relating the experience of one or more consumers on a central or key attribute of a product or service also will likely be interpreted as representing that the endorser’s experience is representative of what consumers will generally achieve with the advertised product or service in actual, albeit variable, conditions of use. Therefore, an advertiser should possess and rely upon adequate substantiation for this representation. If the advertiser does not have substantiation that the endorser’s experience is representative of what consumers will generally achieve, the advertisement should clearly and conspicuously disclose the generally expected performance in the depicted circumstances, and the advertiser must possess adequate substantiation for that representation. 16 CFR § 255.2(b).[3]
Some words and phrases commonly used in earnings claims carry a particularly high risk of being of being misleading to consumers. Such words and phrases include claims such as “financial freedom,” “residual income,” and “passive income.” Such terms are often used in hashtags and when high-risk terms are used in this context it does not diminish the potential for the representation from being misleading.
Here, DSSRC determined that the use of two unqualified claims in particular were representative of the type of statements that proliferate on social media posts being disseminated by Tramont Associates and concluded that these claims communicate an inaccurate message to consumers. The first claim is that incoming Associates will achieve “financial freedom” as a result of the Tranont business opportunity. It is a fundamental principle of advertising that an advertiser has the burden to support any reasonable interpretation of its advertising claims.[4] The term “financial freedom” is likely interpreted subjectively by consumers and can mean different things to different people depending on the context in which the term is presented in an advertisement or social media post. DSSRC determined that for a claim of financial freedom in the context of direct selling one reasonable consumer takeaway is for that claim to be interpreted synonymously with financial independence. Specifically, meaning that an individual has earned (or has the potential to earn) enough income to, for example, take the vacation of their dreams, purchase a house, pay for their children’s or grandchildren’s college and/or retire early. While it is not inconceivable that a small percentage of Tranont Associates can achieve such financial freedom, there has been no evidence provided by Tranont that earning income of this amount could be generally expected by the typical Associate.
Accordingly, DSSRC recommended that Tranont remove any unqualified references being communicated by its Associates on social media posts implying that its Associates can achieve “financial freedom.”
DSSRC also identified a number of claims by Tranont Associates on social media stating that the Associates “Get Paid to Drive a Jeep” as an incentive offered by Tranont. In some cases, a “financial freedom” claim and a “Get Paid to Drive a Jeep” appeared together in one post. ] appear together. For example, one social media post from a Tranont Associate states “GET PAID $600 A MONTH TO DRIVE A NEW JEEP”; “#Jeep4you”; “#healthwealthcommunity”; “#finacialfreedom”. Similarly, another post from a Tranont Associate states “If you want a Jeep paid for or just want residual income and are serious then DM me and let’s chat!”; “#financial freedom”; “#tranont”; “#financialfreedom”; “#wealth”.”
A previous DSSRC inquiry involved a social media claim post by a direct selling distributor which stated “…we’ve put together an aggressive VIP Auto Club to let our affiliates drive away in the car of their dreams!” MyDailyChoice, Inc. DBA HempWorx, DSSRC Case No 9-2020. DSSRC found that claims regarding a company incentive (in the absence of a clear and conspicuous disclosure indicating otherwise) can be reasonably interpreted by consumers as meaning that all incoming plan participants will immediately become eligible to receive the claimed incentive. In that inquiry, DSSRC referenced Section 8a(b) of the Direct Selling Association’s Code of Ethics in that case which states that, “Gross or net income or profits, including but not limited to representations that either explicitly or implicitly suggest that lifestyle purchases—including homes, vehicles, vacations and the like—are related to income earned.” DSSRC determined that if distributors cannot generally expect to receive bonuses and incentives (e.g., “dream cars” “2% Global Bonus Pool” etc.,) that are communicated in advertising and marketing materials, the company should disclose that the depicted the percentage of distributors that are eligible to receive such rewards.[5] The FTC has also expressed its reservations with direct selling companies making “financial freedom” claims in recent enforcement actions[6].
Here, DSSRC similarly determined that claims made by Tranont Associaties on social media stating “Get Paid to Drive a Jeep” – particularly when accompanied by references to financial freedom – reasonably communicate to consumers that the typical Tranont Associate will not only receive a Company Jeep, but will get paid to drive it. As such, DSSRC concluded that if Associates cannot generally expect the incentive (e.g., receiving a company stipend to drive a Tranont jeep), the company and its Associates should disclose the percentage of Associates have received such an incentive. Accordingly, DSSRC recommended that all of the social media posts at issue which pertain to Associates receiving Tranont Jeeps and money to drive them should be removed in the unqualified context in which they appear.
DSSRC also concluded that several of the hashtags used in the Tranont social media posts that remain active were inappropriate. One Tranont Associate uses the hastag #milliondollardaddy next to a pictures of him with a Tranont Jeep. Other hashtags that DSSRC brought to the Company’s attention that are still being used in social media include “#millionairemindset”; “#6figureincome”; “#6figuresummer”; “#financialfreedom” and “#passiveincome”and “#wealth.” DSSRC recommend that posts using these hashtags be removed by Tranont.
DSSRC lastly noted that there are several express income claims communicated in social media posts by Tranont Associates and determined that some of the income claims and lifestyle claims at issue were so extraordinary that they cannot be qualified by a disclosure of generally expected results. For example, one post identified by DSSRC and that remains active depicts a father and son “…that have made 7 figures together” selling Tranont products and services. While DSSRC recognizes that the potential does exist for Tranont Associates to earn supplemental income, earning a seven-figure income appears so unlikely and extraordinary for a typical Tranont Associate that DSSRC recommends that the post be removed in its entirety.
In sum, DSSRC recognized that Tranont has made a concerted effort to reach out and address unauthorized income and incentive claims communicated by its Associates. Importantly, the Company immediately addressed the Youtube video posted by its Associate which suggested that Tranont products could effectively treat the corona virus. Although the health-related claim did appear to emanate from an isolated post and DSSRC did not identify similar coronavirus treatment claims being made by Associates of the Company, DSSRC will continue to closely monitor the health-related product performance claims being communicated by Tranont and its Associates.
DSSRC will also continue to monitor the status of still-existing social media posts and videos which communicate unqualified claims that Tranont Associates can achieve financial freedom, receive payments from the Company to drive a Tranont-sponsored Jeep and hashtags which make reference to atypical and extraordinary income. Should DSSRC determine that such claims continue to remain active, it will promptly initiate a compliance inquiry and request that Tranont demonstrate the good-faith attempt that it has taken to remedy DSSRC’s concerns.
COMPANY STATEMENT
Tranont accepts the DSSRC’s findings and recommendations. Tranont’s team reached out on every post that the DSSRC brought to our attention. Tranont is doubling its efforts to educate its field and discipline repeat offenders where necessary. Tranont has great respect for the direct selling community and will continue to do its part to ensure that this opportunity remains for all in our industry.
(Case No. 18-2020, closed on 4/24/2020)
© 2020. BBB National Programs, Inc.
[1] FTC Business Guidance Concerning Multi-Level Marketing, January 2018.
[2] See WildTree, Inc., DSSRC Case # 1-2019.
[3] See MyDailyChoice, Inc. DBA HempWorx, DSSRC Case # 9-2020 and Team National, Inc., DSSRC Case # 3-2019.
[4] JP Morgan Chase & Co. (Chase Ink Charge Cards), Report #5174, NAD/CARU Case Reports (May 2010); Green Chef, Inc. (Green Chef Healthy Meal Kit Delivery Service), Report #427, ERSP Case Reports (September 2018)
[5] MyDailyChoice, Inc. DBA HempWorx, DSSRC Case No 9-2020
[6] FTC v. AdvoCare International, L.P., Case No. 4:19-cv-00715 (E.D. Tex. Oct. 2, 2019) and FTC v. Neora, LLC, Case No. 19-19699 (U.S. District Court, District of New Jersey Nov. 11 2019).
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The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company ("Company") regarding five social media posts that communicated earnings claims and three posts that communicated health-related product claims. DSSRC expressed concern that the earnings claims conveyed that a typical salesforce member could achieve “financial freedom” and that typical Company salesforce members could earn...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #305
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company ("Company") that sells bath and body products regarding four social media posts that communicated earnings claims and two posts that communicated health related claims. DSSRC expressed concern about the posts conveyed claims regarding the potential income that a typical salesforce member could earn from the Company's...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #304
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) that markets nutritional supplement and weight-loss products regarding health claims disseminated on social media by Company salesforce members. The claims at issue consisted of six health-related product claims that were disseminated on Facebook and YouTube.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #303
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company ("Company") that markets dietary supplements and other personal care products regarding certain claims that appeared on social media platforms including Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube and TikTok. The claims identified by DSSRC in the inquiry consisted of five earnings claims and two product claims. With respect to the...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #302
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company ("Company") that markets travel products regarding 15 earnings claims that were disseminated on social media by members of the Company's salesforce. DSSRC expressed its concern to the Company about the social media posts conveying claims regarding the potential income that a typical salesforce member could earn from the...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #301
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company ("Company") that markets health, fitness and beauty products regarding five earnings claims disseminated by members of the Company's salesforce on Facebook.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #300
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) reached out to a direct selling company ("Company") that sells home and personal fragrance products regarding seven earnings claims disseminated on social media by members of the Company's salesforce. DSSRC expressed concern about the posts conveying claims regarding the potential income that a typical salesforce member could earn from the Company's...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #299
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) that markets health and wellness products regarding nine earnings and health claims disseminated on Facebook by Company salesforce members.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #298
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) that sells health, wellness, and beauty products, regarding 11 product performance claims and two earnings claims that were disseminated by salesforce members on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram and X.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #297
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) that sells personal care and cleaning products regarding claims disseminated on social media by Company salesforce members. The claims at issue consisted of nine earnings claims that were disseminated on Facebook and Loom.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #294
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company that markets household good products regarding seven social media posts that were disseminated by a salesforce member on Facebook and YouTube.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #293
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company regarding seven earnings claims disseminated on social media by Company salesforce members.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #292
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company that sells meal kits and other food accessories regarding 13 earning claims that were disseminated on Facebook, LinkedIn, and TikTok by Company salesforce members.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #291
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) specializing in the clean air industry regarding ten earnings claims disseminated on social media by Company salesforce members.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #290
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) contacted a direct selling company (the “Company”) regarding two social media posts disseminated by Company salesforce members on Facebook.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #289
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding claims disseminated on social media by Company salesforce members.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #288
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding eight claims disseminated on social media by Company salesforce members.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #287
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding eleven earning claims disseminated on social media by Company salesforce members.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #286
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding ten earning claims disseminated on Facebook and Instagram and which included terms such as “financial freedom”, “unlimited earnings potential” and “debt free.”
DSSRC Administrative Closure #285
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding nine earnings claims and one product performance claim disseminated on Facebook by Company salesforce members.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #284
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding nine earnings claims disseminated on social media by Company salesforce members. The posts at issue originated from Facebook and Pinterest.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #281
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding seven product performance claims disseminated on Facebook by Company salesforce members.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #280
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding ten earnings claims disseminated on social media by Company salesforce members. The posts at issue originated from Facebook and YouTube.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #279
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding eight earning claims disseminated on Facebook by Company salesforce members.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #278
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding eight product performance claims and nine earnings claims disseminated on social media by Company salesforce members. The claims at issue were disseminated on Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #277
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding twelve earning claims disseminated on social media by Company salesforce members. The claims at issue were disseminated on Facebook and YouTube.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #276
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding fourteen earning claims disseminated on social media by Company salesforce members. The claims at issue were disseminated on Facebook and Pinterest.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #275
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) that markets home décor and fashion accessories regarding eight earning claims disseminated on social media by Company salesforce members. All of the claims at issue were disseminated on Facebook.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #274
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) that markets beauty products regarding seven earning claims disseminated on social media by Company salesforce members. The claims at issue were disseminated on Facebook and YouTube.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #273
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) that markets CBD products regarding fifteen product performance claims disseminated on social media by Company salesforce members. More specifically, the claims at issue were disseminated on Facebook and Instagram.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #272
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding twelve earning claims disseminated on social media by Company salesforce members. The claims at issue were disseminated on Facebook and on the Company website.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #271
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding twelve product performance claims disseminated on social media by Company salesforce members. The claims at issue were disseminated on Facebook, Vimeo, Pinterest, and Twitter.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #270
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) that markets CBD products regarding eleven product performance claims and one earnings claim disseminated on social media by Company salesforce members. The claims at issue were disseminated on Twitter, TikTok, Facebook and Instagram. Although several of the social media posts were disseminated in 2019 or...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #269
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding six earning claims disseminated on social media by Company salesforce members. The claims at issue were disseminated on Facebook and YouTube.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #268
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding eight product claims and four earning claims disseminated on social media by Company salesforce members. The claims at issue were disseminated on Facebook and YouTube.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #267
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding ten product claims and four earning claims disseminated on social media by Company salesforce members. The claims at issue were disseminated on Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #266
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) that specializes in hemp-based CBD oil products regarding eleven product claims and four earning claims that were disseminated on Facebook and YouTube.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #265
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding nine earning claims disseminated on social media by Company salesforce members. The claims at issue were disseminated on Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #264
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) that markets jewelry and other accessories regarding ten earnings claims that were disseminated on social media. All of the claims appeared on Facebook.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #263
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) that markets clothing products regarding seven earnings claims that were disseminated on Facebook by Company salesforce members.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #262
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding fourteen product performance claims and one earnings claim disseminated on social media by Company salesforce members. The claims at issue were disseminated on Facebook and YouTube.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #261
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding ten earnings claims that were disseminated on social media by Company salesforce members. The claims at issue were all disseminated on Facebook.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #260
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct-selling company (“Company”) that markets dietary supplement products regarding six product performance claims that were disseminated on social media by the Company’s salesforce members and as well as weight-loss depictions and testimonials that appeared on the Company’s website. DSSRC expressed its concerns regarding the claims that the...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #259
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) that sells women’s beauty products regarding certain earnings claims that were disseminated on social media by the Company’s salesforce members. The claims at issue originated from eleven social media posts disseminated on Facebook. The eleven Facebook posts included claims that salesforce members can generally...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #258
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) initiated an inquiry involving a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding four earnings claims disseminated by Company salesforce members on Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and YouTube. The inquiry pertained to the Company’s use of terms such as “a debt-free life,” “financial freedom,” and social media posts suggesting that the typical Company sales...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #257
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct-selling company (“Company”) that markets travel-related products regarding certain earnings claims that were disseminated on social media by the Company’s salesforce members as well as an earnings claim made in the Company’s compensation plan on the Company’s website. The claims which were disseminated by Company salesforce members were...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #256
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding nine earnings claims that were disseminated on social media by the Company’s salesforce members on Facebook and the Company website.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #255
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding certain earnings claims and one health-related product claim that were disseminated on social media by the Company’s salesforce members. The claims at issue were all disseminated on Facebook.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #254
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding certain earnings claims that were disseminated on social media by the Company’s salesforce members. The claims at issue were disseminated on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. DSSRC contacted the Company and expressed concern that these social media posts could be reasonably interpreted by consumers as...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #253
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding earnings claims that were disseminated on social media by the Company’s salesforce members. All of the posts at issue were disseminated on Facebook. DSSRC contacted the Company and expressed concern that these social media posts could be reasonably interpreted by consumers as meaning that the typical...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #252
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) opened an inquiry with a direct selling company (the “Company”) regarding certain earnings claims disseminated on social media by the Company’s salesforce members. The claims at...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #251
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding certain earnings claims and health-related claims that were disseminated on social media by the Company’s salesforce...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #250
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding certain earnings claims that were disseminated on social media by the Company’s salesforce members. All but one of the...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #249
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct-selling company (“Company”) that sells wellness products regarding certain product and earnings claims that were disseminated on social media by the Company’s...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #248
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding certain earnings claims that were disseminated on social media by the Company’s salesforce members. The claims at issue included...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #247
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding certain earnings claims that were disseminated on social media by the Company’s salesforce members. The claims at issue were all disseminated on Facebook. DSSRC contacted the Company and expressed concern that these social media posts could be reasonably interpreted by consumers as meaning that the...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #246
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct-selling company (“Company”) that sells cosmetic products regarding certain earnings claims that were disseminated on social media by the Company’s salesforce members. The posts were identified as part of DSSRC’s ongoing monitoring process, which found thirteen posts on Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #245
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct-selling company (“Company”) that sells several brands of weight-loss and nutritional wellness products regarding certain earnings claims and health-related product claims that were disseminated on social media by the Company’s salesforce members. The posts were identified as part of DSSRC’s ongoing monitoring process, which found three...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #244
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DSSRC Administrative Closure #231
DSSRC Administrative Closure #230
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) initiated an inquiry involving a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding six earnings claims disseminated by Company salesforce members on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. The claims identified by DSSRC included, but were not limited to, “earn 4 to 5 figures income,” “you decide your income,” “I paid off my entire family’s medical bills,” “I just paid...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #229
DSSRC Administrative Closure #228
DSSRC Administrative Closure #227
DSSRC Administrative Closure #226
DSSRC Administrative Closure #225
DSSRC Administrative Closure #224
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DSSRC Administrative Closure #219
DSSRC Administrative Closure #218
DSSRC Administrative Closure #217
DSSRC Administrative Closure #216
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) contacted a company (“Company”) regarding eighteen social media posts disseminated on Facebook and YouTube that were identified pursuant to its monitoring of the direct selling industry. Fifteen of the social media posts made health-related claims regarding skin conditions such as, but not limited to, eczema and psoriasis. DSSRC was also concerned that...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #215
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding four social media posts disseminated on Facebook that were identified pursuant to its monitoring of the direct selling industry. Three of the posts included references to the ability for Company salesforce members to earn full time income. In addition, the remaining post referenced the COVID-19...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #214
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding four social media posts disseminated on Facebook and one YouTube video that were identified pursuant to its monitoring of the direct selling industry. DSSRC expressed its concern to the Company that all five posts communicated atypical earnings claims regarding the amount of income that could be...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #213
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding five social media posts disseminated on Facebook and one YouTube video that were identified pursuant to its monitoring of the direct selling industry. The Facebook posts included references to the efficacy of the Company’s products to treat several health-related conditions including arthritis and...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #212
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) contacted a company (“Company”) regarding thirteen social media posts disseminated on Facebook that were identified pursuant to its monitoring of the direct selling industry. The posts included references to, among other things, the Company’s “unlimited income potential” and how salesforce members can earn “$1,000 a month,” become “financially...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #211
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding three social media posts disseminated on YouTube, Facebook, and TikTok. DSSRC was concerned that these posts may be reasonably interpreted as communicating that by partaking in the Company’s business opportunity, salesforce members would earn a substantial income. The posts were identified by DSSRC...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #210
DSSRC Administrative Closure #209
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DSSRC Administrative Closure #205
DSSRC Administrative Closure #204
DSSRC Administrative Closure #203
DSSRC Administrative Closure #202
DSSRC Administrative Closure #201
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) contacted a direct selling company (the “Company”) regarding five social media posts that DSSRC was concerned were communicating inappropriate earnings claims. The posts included references such as “replace another income,” “full-time opportunity,” “travel for free,” “what would you do with an extra $500 a month?”, and “looking for a new career or...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #200
DSSRC Administrative Closure #199
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DSSRC Administrative Closure #196
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DSSRC Administrative Closure #193
DSSRC Administrative Closure #192
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) contacted a direct selling company (the “Company”) regarding three social media posts disseminated by company salesforce members that communicated health-related product claims. In addition, DSSRC also inquired regarding certain earnings claims that appeared on the Company’s website as well as earnings claims disseminated by salesforce members on social...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #191
DSSRC Administrative Closure #190
DSSRC Administrative Closure #189
DSSRC Administrative Closure #188
DSSRC Administrative Closure #187
DSSRC Administrative Closure #186
DSSRC Administrative Closure #185
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) contacted a direct selling company (the “Company”) regarding one social media post disseminated by a company salesforce member. Some of the language in the post made an atypical representation regarding the level of income that a salesforce member could expect to earn from the Company’s business opportunity. The post was identified by DSSRC pursuant to...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #184
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) contacted a direct selling company (the “Company”) regarding six social media posts. The inquiry involved a number of health-related posts which included claims that the Company’s products can treat Alzheimer’s disease and cancer and prevent diabetes and strokes. The posts were identified by DSSRC pursuant to its ongoing, independent monitoring of the...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #183
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) contacted a direct selling company (the “Company”) regarding nine social media posts. DSSRC was concerned that these posts made both explicit and implied claims that typical salesforce members of the Company could generally expect to earn significant, full-time, or career replacement income through participating in the Company’s business opportunity. The...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #182
DSSRC Administrative Closure #181
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) contacted a direct selling company (the “Company”) regarding one social media post that was disseminated by a salesforce member of the Company. DSSRC was concerned that the post communicated that a typical salesforce member will earn a significant amount of income from the Company’s business opportunity.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #180
DSSRC Administrative Closure #179
DSSRC Administrative Closure #178
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) contacted a direct selling company (the “Company”) regarding four social media posts that conveyed the message that the Company's products can treat several serious health-related conditions including diabetes and autism. DSSRC was also concerned that some of the social media posts communicated the message that salesforce members can generally expect to...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #177
DSSRC Administrative Closure #176
DSSRC Administrative Closure #175
DSSRC Administrative Closure #174
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DSSRC Administrative Closure #170
DSSRC contacted a direct selling company regarding three social media posts disseminated by salesforce members that communicated the efficacy of the Company’s products to treat ADHD in children, COVID-19 and other health-related conditions. The social media posts came to DSSRC’s attention pursuant to its independent monitoring of advertising in the direct selling marketplace.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #169
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) contacted a direct selling company (the “Company”) regarding three social media posts that DSSRC was concerned conveyed, either through depictions or accompanying text, that the Company’s salesforce members can earn a significant income through the Company’s business opportunity.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #168
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) contacted a direct selling company (the “Company”) regarding four social media posts that DSSRC was concerned contained health-related product claims including statements that the Company’s products could prevent, treat, or cure COVID-19. DSSRC identified the subject social media posts that were made by Company salesforce members through its ongoing...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #167
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DSSRC Administrative Closure #164
DSSRC Administrative Closure #163
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DSSRC Administrative Closure #161
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) contacted a direct selling company (the “Company”) regarding four Facebook posts that were disseminated by salesforce members of the Company. All four of the post conveyed strong health-related product claims including the message that the Company’s products were effective to treat serious health conditions such as COVID-19, ADHD, dementia, Alzheimer’s...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #160
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) contacted a direct selling company (the “Company”) regarding social media posts that were disseminated by salesforce members. The subject claims and social media posts came to DSSRC’s attention through its independent monitoring of advertising in the direct selling marketplace.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #159
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) contacted a direct selling company (the “Company”) regarding four Facebook posts that were disseminated by Company salesforce members. All four of the posts made reference to prospective salesforce members being able to “replace lost income” through the Company’s business opportunity and one of the posts included an implied reference to achieving...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #158
DSSRC Administrative Closure #157
DSSRC Administrative Closure #156
DSSRC Administrative Closure #155
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DSSRC Administrative Closure #150
DSSRC Administrative Closure #149
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) contacted a direct selling company (the “Company”) regarding one Facebook post and two TikTok posts disseminated by salesforce members of the Company. DSSRC was concerned that the Facebook post conveyed disease treatment claims and that the TikTok posts contained strong health-related product performance claims including claims that the Company’s...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #148
DSSRC Administrative Closure #147
DSSRC Administrative Closure #146
DSSRC Administrative Closure #145
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DSSRC Administrative Closure #140
DSSRC Administrative Closure #139
DSSRC Administrative Closure #138
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) contacted a direct selling company (the “Company”) regarding two Facebook posts disseminated by salesforce members. DSSRC was concerned that one of the posts conveyed claims that the Company’s products can protect against disease including express claims stating that the salesforce member is “COVID free” and the products being a “pandemic response.”...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #137
DSSRC Administrative Closure #136
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DSSRC Administrative Closure #116
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) contacted a direct selling company (the “Company”) regarding six posts made on social media by Company salesforce members. DSSRC was concerned that the social media posts disseminated by these Company salesforce members included unsubstantiated product, health and wellness benefits including claims that the Company’s products can protect against...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #115
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) contacted a direct selling company (the “Company”) regarding two Facebook posts by Company salesforce members that referenced serious health-related conditions that purportedly could be addressed by use of the Company’s products.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #114
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) contacted a direct selling company (the “Company”) regarding two Facebook posts making claims about the Company’s products. The Facebook posts were disseminated by a Company salesforce member and a former salesforce member of the Company. The social media posts were identified during DSSRC’s monitoring of the...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #113
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding three Facebook posts disseminated by Company salesforce members that were identified during DSSRC’s monitoring of the direct selling industry. DSSRC expressed its concern to the Company that all of the posts implied that the Company products are effective to treat a number of health-related...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #112
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding three Facebook posts that were identified during DSSRC’s monitoring of the direct selling industry and disseminated by Company salesforce members.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #111
DSSRC Administrative Closure #110
DSSRC Administrative Closure #109
DSSRC Administrative Closure #108
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) commenced an inquiry with a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding three Facebook posts disseminated by Company salesforce members.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #107
DSSRC Administrative Closure #106
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) contacted a direct selling company (the “Company”) about three Facebook posts disseminated by salesforce members of the Company. Two of the posts in question implied that the Company’s nutritional products could help individuals that consume such products fight viruses including COVID-19. The other post made specific health-related product efficacy claims...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #105
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) contacted a direct selling company (the “Company”) about two Facebook posts disseminated by salesforce members of the Company. The posts in question implied that engaging in direct selling of the Company’s products could provide replacement income for those out of work due to COVID and/or a new career during the current public health crisis.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #104
DSSRC Administrative Closure #103
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (Company) regarding three Facebook posts disseminated by its salesforce members. The subject claims and social media posts came to DSSRC’s attention pursuant to its independent monitoring of advertising in the direct selling marketplace.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #102
DSSRC Administrative Closure #101
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company (Company) regarding three coronavirus related hashtags that accompanied a post stating that the Company’s product can strengthen the immune system. Earlier this year, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) stated that coronavirus related claims and hashtags when coupled with claims that a product can strengthen or boost the...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #100
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding two Facebook posts and one Instagram post disseminated by Company salesforce members. All three posts referenced the ability of the direct selling company’s product to prevent and eliminate the coronavirus.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #99
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) contacted a direct selling company regarding three Facebook post disseminated by its salesforce members. The subject claims and social media posts came to DSSRC’s attention pursuant to its independent monitoring of advertising in the direct selling marketplace.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #98
DSSRC Administrative Closure #97
DSSRC Administrative Closure #96
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (“DSSRC”) contacted a direct selling company (“Company”) regarding three Facebook posts disseminated by salesforce members that included claims that the Company’s products can assist in treating a number of serious health-related conditions including, but not limited to, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease and Multiple Sclerosis.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #95
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DSSRC Administrative Closure #80
DSSRC contacted a direct selling company regarding two Facebook posts disseminated by its salesforce members. The subject social media posts came to DSSRC’s attention pursuant to its independent monitoring of advertising in the direct selling marketplace. Specifically, DSSRC expressed concern that the posts conveyed the unsupported health-related message that the Company’s direct selling products can protect...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #79
DSSRC contacted a direct selling company regarding three social media posts disseminated by its salesforce members. The subject social media posts came to DSSRC’s attention pursuant to its independent monitoring of advertising in the direct selling marketplace. Specifically, DSSRC expressed concerns that the posts conveyed unsupported product, health and wellness benefits and the message that the Company’s...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #78
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DSSRC Administrative Closure #76
Social media advertising for a direct selling company that markets health and wellness products came to the attention of the Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) pursuant to its monitoring of the direct selling industry. DSSRC identified three Facebook posts that were disseminated by Company salesforce members as communicating egregious health-related claims. One post stated “build your immune...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #75
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DSSRC Administrative Closure #70
DSSRC contacted a direct selling company about two Facebook posts disseminated by the company’s salesforce members that conveyed product performance stating and/or implying that the company’s products can help prevent or treat COVID-19. Both posts came to DSSRC’s attention pursuant to its independent monitoring of advertising in the direct selling marketplace.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #69
DSSRC contacted a direct selling company about two YouTube videos disseminated by the company’s salesforce members that conveyed product performance claims while referencing the current global pandemic. Both videos came to DSSRC’s attention pursuant to its independent monitoring of advertising in the direct selling marketplace.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #68
DSSRC contacted a direct selling company about two social media posts disseminated by the company’s salesforce members that conveyed product performance claims. Both social media posts came to DSSRC’s attention pursuant to its independent monitoring of advertising in the direct selling marketplace.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #67
DSSRC contacted a direct selling company about certain social media posts disseminated by salesforce members regarding product efficacy claims that referenced “Corona Virus.” DSSRC also identified more general product claims regarding viruses that DSSRC was concerned could be reasonably interpreted could be reasonably interpreted as meaning that the company’s products are effective against the...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #66
DSSRC contacted a direct selling company about three social media posts disseminated by salesforce members regarding business opportunities during the pandemic. The social media posts came to DSSRC’s attention pursuant to its independent monitoring of advertising in the direct selling marketplace.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #65
DSSRC contacted a direct selling company about three business opportunity posts disseminated by salesforce members. The social media posts came to DSSRC’s attention pursuant to its independent monitoring of advertising in the direct selling marketplace.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #64
DSSRC contacted a direct selling company about three social media post disseminated by salesforce members. The social media posts came to DSSRC’s attention pursuant to its independent monitoring of advertising in the direct selling marketplace. Specifically, DSSRC expressed concern that the social media posts conveyed unsubstantiated product health and wellness benefit claims related to the current COVID-19...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #63
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DSSRC contacted a direct selling company about four social media posts disseminated by its salesforce members. The subject social media posts came to DSSRC’s attention pursuant to its independent monitoring of advertising in the direct selling marketplace. Specifically, DSSRC expressed concern that the social media posts conveyed unsubstantiated product, health and wellness benefits that the Company’s direct...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #51
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DSSRC Administrative Closure #48
DSSRC contacted a direct selling company about a social media post disseminated by a salesforce member. The subject social media post came to DSSRC’s attention pursuant to its independent monitoring of advertising in the direct selling marketplace. Specifically, DSSRC expressed concern that the social media post conveyed unsubstantiated product, health and wellness benefits that the Company’s direct selling...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #47
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DSSRC Administrative Closure #42
DSSRC contacted a direct selling company about two social media posts disseminated by its salesforce members. The subject social media posts came to DSSRC’s attention pursuant to its independent monitoring of advertising in the direct selling marketplace. Specifically, DSSRC expressed concerns that two of the social media posts conveyed unsubstantiated product, health and wellness benefits that the Company’s...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #41
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DSSRC Administrative Closure #39
DSSRC contacted a direct selling company about thirty-five social media posts disseminated by its salesforce members. The subject social media posts came to DSSRC’s attention pursuant to its independent monitoring of advertising in the direct selling marketplace. Specifically, DSSRC expressed concerns that thirty-three of the social media posts...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #38
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DSSRC Administrative Closure #32
Social media posts disseminated by distributors for a multi-level company came to the attention of the Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) pursuant to its internal monitoring process. More specifically, one Instagram post...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #31
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DSSRC Administrative Closure #18
In 2019, DSSRC contacted a direct selling company regarding several earnings claims on the direct selling company’s website as well as claims that were being disseminated by the company’s salesforce on social media.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #17
DSSRC contacted a direct selling company (the “Company”) about earnings claims disseminated on the Company’s website and on social media by salesforce members. Specifically, DSSRC identified a number of express and implied earnings claim that referenced financial freedom, exorbitant bonuses and vacations, luxury cars, the ability to pay off college loans and generous reward programs. The advertising also...
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DSSRC Administrative Closure #11
In 2020, a direct selling company contacted DSSRC seeking guidance regarding company events at which top distributors are recognized. The direct selling company stated that it had previously presented some of its highest performing distributors with oversized checks at the event but, since the success of those top distributors was not typical, it was concerned that the oversized checks might convey an...
DSSRC Administrative Closure #10
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DSSRC Administrative Closure #2
DSSRC opened an inquiry with a direct selling company regarding Instagram and Facebook posts made by the Company salesforce regarding claims of achieving “financial freedom,” a claim stating that potential recruits can “earn the income that want,” an unqualified claim of atypical earnings and an unqualified claim regarding company incentive trips.
DSSRC Administrative Closure #1
The Direct Selling Self-Regulatory Council (DSSRC) inquired with a direct selling company regarding twos social media posts disseminated by members of the Company salesforce. The first claim appeared on Instagram and stated that that the salesforce member was able to more than replace her salary from here previous, full-time job.