Mock government Google ad banned following crackdown
The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) has banned a Google sponsored search result for driving theory tests after it made references to Gov UK in its URL, weeks after the watchdog announced it would ensure copycat sites are compliant with the advertising code.
The ad from TAD Services promoting the Driver Theory Test site stated "£31 Official Theory Test - Gov UK Includes Free Retests”.
Two people complained that the use of Gov UK was misleading, because it suggested that the advertiser was affiliated with the UK Government or the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).
The ASA said that most consumers viewing the ad would believe the site was provided by a government department, as opposed to a private, commercial company, and could proceed to click on the link and book their test, believing they were booking it via the DVSA.
TAD Services said that the ad had been removed and that they no longer placed Google sponsored ads.
The watchdog said its ruling that while it welcomed the fact the ad had been withdrawn, no further ads must contain Gov UK.
The ruling comes after five people were arrested earlier this month for tricking consumers into parting with cash for services that are provided cheaper or free-of-charge through official government channels.
Over 5,000 people complained to Citizens Advice last year, with 700 more to the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA).
TAD Services has previously landed in hot water with the ASA for implying a relationship with Transport for London and not disclosing fees on their website Pay London Congestion.