Latest news with #IndianInfluencerGoverningCouncil
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Business Standard
2 days ago
- Business
- Business Standard
IIGC launches Code of Standards to govern influencer-brand deals
The Indian Influencer Governing Council (IIGC) on Monday announced the launch of the Code of Standards for Brands, a framework aimed at promoting ethical, transparent, and responsible brand partnerships in the fast-evolving influencer marketing ecosystem. IIGC, an initiative led by industry stakeholders to support government efforts, foster collaboration, and promote responsible practices in influencer marketing, stated in its release that the code will address critical areas such as mandatory transparency and disclosure of paid partnerships, gifted products, and affiliate links. It will also promote content authenticity by encouraging influencers to retain their genuine voice while discouraging scripted, misleading, or manipulative messaging. 'Brand–influencer partnerships are incredibly powerful, but also vulnerable to reputational risks,' said Sahil Chopra, chairman, IIGC, in a statement. 'Today, almost 95 per cent of brand–influencer work happens without a formal contract, leading to unnecessary disputes and a breakdown of trust. The Code of Standards for Brands makes the ecosystem more accountable and sustainable. With the addition of the IIGC Taskforce, we are giving the industry a much-needed safety net to operate with greater transparency and fairness.' As per the recently launched code, brands will be required to ensure full disclosure when using virtual influencers, and deceptive use of CGI (computer-generated imagery) or deepfakes will be banned. Data privacy is another core pillar, with the code enforcing strict protocols for data collection, targeting, and consumer consent, in line with the Consumer Protection Act and other applicable privacy laws. The code also introduces guidance around brand–influencer contractual frameworks. It will provide templates and best practices to ensure that all partnerships are governed by clear, fair, and transparent contracts, the release said. Simultaneously, the operational launch of the IIGC Taskforce—which offers ongoing governance and support to brands through real-time digital listening, sentiment analysis, and crisis mitigation—will help brands manage online reputation risks more proactively, the release stated. 'Its mediation service offers a neutral and confidential space to resolve disputes related to content, reputational concerns, and contractual issues, protecting relationships and preserving industry trust. When required, the taskforce also facilitates access to verified legal professionals to guide brands through complex regulatory landscapes or contractual challenges,' the release added.
Time of India
12-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Indian Influencer Governing Council introduces Code of Standards to guide digital consumers
The Indian Influencer Governing Council (IIGC) has introduced a Code of Standards for consumers, aimed at enhancing awareness and promoting ethical engagement in the influencer marketing space. #Operation Sindoor The damage done at Pak bases as India strikes to avenge Pahalgam Why Pakistan pleaded to end hostilities Kashmir's Pahalgam sparks Karachi's nightmare As influencer marketing increasingly shapes consumer behaviour, the new code serves as a guide to help individuals make informed decisions when interacting with digital content. It addresses areas such as recognising paid promotions , identifying manipulation tactics, understanding AI influencers, and avoiding scams and online trolling. The code is intended to help consumers protect their interests and engage more thoughtfully online. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like The Most Realistic Game of 2025 RAID Play Now Undo Sahil Chopra, Chairman and Founding Member of IIGC, said, 'The influencer economy has found its way in the everyday life of people. This code allows them to choose wisely, question, and moreover shape the industry through ethical engagement. At the end of the day, responsible influence starts with informed consumers.' With the Indian digital landscape rapidly evolving into a hub for content creators, a structured code for consumers is both timely and necessary, the IIGC said. Live Events The code highlights the importance of recognising tactics such as false urgency and impulse buying, assessing authenticity, and fostering respectful dialogue between creators and audiences. It also supports consumers in calling out misleading promotions and reporting unethical behaviour. In the coming months, the IIGC plans to introduce awareness workshops and influencer literacy campaigns to provide users with practical tools to identify potential red flags in influencer content. Speaking about the launch, Amrita Kumar, VP & Head of Marketing at Isprava, said, 'With this Consumer Code of Standards, the IIGC reinforces its mission in building a safer, more transparent digital ecosystem. From authenticity and data privacy to AI influencers and scams, it gears the consumers with the clarity and confidence to navigate content responsibly. It's a vital step toward shared accountability — where creators, brands, platforms, and audiences all have a role in upholding trust.' From financial influencers promoting high-risk schemes to AI-generated personas endorsing products they have never used, the code brings focus to transparency, accountability, and consumer protection .
