Brands and influencers should prioritize transparency and compliance with legal and ethical guidelines when engaging in affiliate marketing. This includes:
1. Disclosing affiliate relationships clearly and conspicuously, following FTC guidelines and platform-specific requirements.
2. Ensuring that all claims made about the products are truthful and not misleading.
3. Respecting intellectual property rights and not infringing on copyrights or trademarks.
4. Protecting the privacy and data of their audience, adhering to relevant privacy laws and regulations.
5. Being mindful of promoting products that may be sensitive or controversial, such as alcohol, tobacco, or adult content.
Brands should provide their influencer partners with guidance and resources on legal and ethical best practices, while influencers should educate themselves and seek legal advice when necessary.