Minnesota Crackdown on Phony Listings a Potential Boon for Local Advertisers →
As of Aug. 1, the state began enforcement of a law that prohibits advertising “deceptive local telephone numbers and geographically deceptive business names” across the Internet, as well as in print advertisements and directories.
Legislation targets national businesses that camouflage themselves behind local names and listings, cluttering the advertising space. The landmark represents a clear win for neighborhood “mom-and-pops,” but also a victory for national chains (insurance, restaurants, other retailers) fighting for local brand relevance in an increasingly populous online space.
