The Escapist has an interesting feature on online guerilla marketers, or OMGs.
Disguising himself as just another consumer turning to the internet for entertainment, advice and counsel, Jack prowls community forums looking for an opportunity to share his “opinion” of his clients’ products and services. But his task isn’t easy. Part of the reason many consumers are turning away from television in the first place is the pervasiveness of advertising, and they will not hesitate to thwart the efforts of marketers in what they deem as “their space.”
I’m not sure we can blame the “Jacks” of the world for this development. However, we can blame the marketers and “viral” marketing firms they hire who consciously decide to deceive consumers. Where’s Ralph Nader when we need him?
[via NPR]