Bill > S08605

This bill requires social media platforms to implement comprehensive measures to prevent, detect, and remove fraudulent advertisements that could harm consumers, particularly vulnerable populations like seniors and minors. Under the proposed Fraudulent Social-Media Advertising Prevention Act, platforms must verify advertiser identities by collecting legal names, addresses, and identification documents, and establish rigorous vetting processes to screen advertisements before publication. Platforms will be required to review ad content, examine linked websites or landing pages, and use automated systems to detect fraudulent patterns. They must also create mechanisms for users and the Attorney General to report suspicious ads and promptly remove advertisements found to be fraudulent. Additionally, platforms must maintain detailed records of their vetting activities for five years and submit quarterly reports to the Attorney General detailing the number of advertisements reviewed, rejected, and removed. The bill allows the Attorney General to take enforcement actions and impose civil penalties up to $5,000 per fraudulent advertisement, with potential increased penalties for willful or repeated violations. Consumers who are injured by a platform's failure to comply with these requirements can also bring private legal actions to seek damages. The overall goal is to protect New York residents from deceptive advertising and hold social media platforms accountable for the commercial content they distribute.

Business and Industry

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S8605