Psychic TV fined £12,500 by Ofcom
The ‘Psychic Today’ programme is classified as advertising content and offers psychic readings to callers. The programmes included claims of efficacy and accuracy regarding the psychics providing the readings.
The broadcasts were found in breach of the UK Code of Broadcast Advertising in respect of: Rule 15.5.2: “Advertisements for personalised and live services that rely on belief in astrology, horoscopes, tarot, and derivative practices are acceptable only on channels that are licensed for the purpose of the promotion of such services and are appropriately labelled: both the advertisement and the product or service itself must state the product or service is for entertainment purposes only.”
They also breached Rule 15.5.3: “Advertising permitted under Rule 15.5 may not: Make claims for efficacy or accuracy; Predict negative experiences or specific events; Offer life-changing advice directed at individuals – including advice related to health (including pregnancy) or financial situation; Appeal particularly to children; Encourage excessive use.”
Ofcom decided that the Code breaches were serious and repeated and therefore a financial penalty should be imposed. Ofcom also directed Majestic TV to broadcast a statement of Ofcom’s findings on one occasion, on a date and in a form to be determined by Ofcom.