The Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) reviewed over 9,300 complaint outcomes in September 2025 alone. Of these, more than 13,000 were found to have directly violated advertising codes, indicating a sharp increase in cases of misleading advertisements in India. This is more than just regulatory information for companies, businesses, and advertising agencies; it's a guide to what not to do in contemporary advertising.
Why Misleading Ads Are Increasing in 2025
Three main factors are responsible for the surge:
Digital-first promotions: Many brands are still finding it difficult to adhere to the ASCI guidelines for advertising in India, despite the popularity of influencer campaigns on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
Consumer vigilance: Empowered by social media, consumers are filing complaints faster than ever.
Stronger legal backing: Accountability is inevitable due to the continued enforcement of harsher penalties under the Consumer Protection Act of India.
Key Misleading Advertisement Cases in 2025
Let’s explore some high-profile cases from ASCI’s 2025 reports that highlight the risks of non-compliance:
- Imagine Foods Private Limited – Imagine Meats Case: The brand promoted its “Plant-Based Mutton Seekh Kebab” as an authentic meat alternative.
Outcome: Upheld. The ad violated Chapter I of the ASCI Code by using terminology that misled consumers into thinking it was actual mutton.
Lesson: Precision in labeling and terminology is crucial in the food and beverage sector.
- Motorola India – Motorola Razr 60 Case: An influencer campaign claimed product features without proper disclosure of sponsorship.
Outcome: Upheld. The advertisement contravened the ASCI Guidelines for Influencer Advertising in Digital Media.
Lesson: Transparency in influencer marketing is no longer optional—it’s mandatory.
- V Business Enterprises LLP – Atom Colostrum Immunity Boost Superfood Powder Case: The ad claimed “89% users saw fewer infections” and other health benefits without scientific validation.
Outcome: Upheld. Violated both the ASCI Code and Food & Beverage advertising guidelines.
Lesson: Health claims must always be backed by credible scientific evidence.
- Hindustan Unilever Limited – TRESemmé Silk Press Range Case: An influencer promoted TRESemmé products on Instagram.
Outcome: Not Upheld. ASCI found no violation as disclosures were correctly made.
Lesson: When disclosure rules are followed, influencer marketing can remain compliant.
- Pidilite Industries Limited – Roff Case: TV and YouTube ads were investigated for potentially misleading claims.
Outcome: Not Upheld. ASCI confirmed compliance with advertising codes.
Lesson: Rigorous pre-campaign review and adherence to guidelines can safeguard against violations.
Business Takeaways from ASCI’s 2025 Decisions
The highlighted cases reveal a pattern: brands caught in violation are often those making bold claims without sufficient substantiation. For enterprises and agencies, here are the most actionable insights:
Audit claims before launch: Ensure all performance, health, or comparative claims are backed with verifiable data.
Prioritize disclosures: Influencer-led campaigns must clearly mention sponsorships in line with the ASCI guidelines for advertising in India.
Monitor industry categories closely: Food, health, and digital tech remain the most scrutinized sectors.
Embed compliance training: Marketing teams and partners should be well-versed in the consumer protection act india to avoid costly oversights.
Leverage positive precedents: Brands like Hindustan Unilever and Pidilite show that transparency and due diligence pay off in maintaining credibility.
Why This Matters Beyond Compliance
The biggest loss from misleading ads isn’t always financial—it’s reputational. In India, where consumer trust drives long-term brand equity, once credibility is lost, rebuilding it can take years.
Data shows that brands proactively withdrawing or correcting misleading ads saw up to 15% higher consumer trust scores in follow-up campaigns. On the other hand, those resisting compliance faced not only penalties but also lasting damage to public image.
Conclusion
The rising number of misleading advertisements cases in India in 2025 sends a clear message: advertising without accountability is no longer acceptable. For businesses and advertising firms, compliance with the ASCI guidelines for advertising in India and the consumer protection act india isn’t just about avoiding fines—it’s about safeguarding reputation, credibility, and consumer trust.
As we move deeper into 2025, brands that embrace transparency and ethical communication will not only stay out of regulatory trouble but also earn the loyalty of an increasingly vigilant consumer base.
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