No More Fake Reviews - So Who’s Gonna Tell Us What To Buy?

@cleeds I think 'consumer reviews' means reviews for the consumer not specifically 'reviews by a consumer', so professional reviewers generate consumer reviews and are affected by the ruling. You could also consider that many consumers who are unpaid generate reviews, but I can't see a situation where a consumer who isn't being paid for the review could do or say anything that would lead to prosecution by the FTC.
As far as I can see it's mostly positive on the side of us, the consumer, and the only downside I can foresee is the loss of some of the reviewers' channels on youtube, etc, when they figure out that it just isn't worth the risk and they don't have enough traffic to support other means to generate revenue. But what the heck do I know.. lol.

Your ears should be the only influence on what you buy.

rooze

I think 'consumer reviews' means reviews for the consumer not specifically 'reviews by a consumer', so professional reviewers generate consumer reviews and are affected by the ruling ...

There's nothing to suggest your interpretation of the FTC announcement. The ruling addresses "Fake Reviews and Testimonials" and is explicit:

"Fake or False Consumer Reviews, Consumer Testimonials, and Celebrity Testimonials: The final rule addresses reviews and testimonials that misrepresent that they are by someone who does not exist."

You're reading w-a-y too much into this ruling.

Reviews make good bathroom reading.... If I can't see it and hear it in person I am generally not interested.  Lack of in home demo or decent return policy is usually a deal breaker for me.  

I actually prefer reading about how great something is that I just bought NOT based on a review but by hands on,  real world listening .

 Wont change a thing.