OFCOM Fraudulent Advertising Consultation - September 2026

Fraudulent advertisements continue to present challenges for retailers and consumers alike. As regulators consider new measures to tackle online fraud, first-hand experiences from businesses will play an important role in shaping the discussion.

We are particularly interested in hearing about any incidents of fraudulent advertising that your organisation has encountered. This could include how the issue was identified, the steps taken to address it, whether you were able to secure a rapid take-down, and any barriers you faced during the process.

The consultation also seeks views on a number of proposed approaches for online platforms. These include:

  • Taking more proactive steps to prevent fraudulent advertising
  • Carrying out regular risk assessments supported by robust governance processes
  • Making it more difficult for fraudsters to gain access to advertising accounts
  • Strengthening the testing and oversight of AI-powered advertising tools
  • Improving reporting mechanisms so that suspicious activity can be identified and addressed more effectively

Member feedback will help ensure that the retail sector's experiences and priorities are reflected in the consultation response. We encourage businesses to share both practical examples and views on the proposed measures.

Associate Members with expertise in Legal