A PYMNTS Company

Spain: Atresmedia and Mediaset, fined over repeated violations

By  |  December 8, 2015

Spanish regulator CNMC has announced a fresh round of sanctions on repeat offenders Atresmedia and Mediaset, Spain’s largest media groups. The two companies have been fined over separate repeated violations of rules and obligations set by the regulator. Specifically, regarding hidden advertising content (Mediaset) and for failing to comply with the self-regulation code for age ratings in their broadcast content. (Atresmedia)

    Get the Full Story

    Complete the form to unlock this article and enjoy unlimited free access to all PYMNTS content — no additional logins required.

    yesSubscribe to our daily newsletter, PYMNTS Today.

    By completing this form, you agree to receive marketing communications from PYMNTS and to the sharing of your information with our sponsor, if applicable, in accordance with our Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions.

    In the first case, the CNMC accused Mediaset of violating article 18.2 of the General Audiovisual Communications Law by broadcasting hidden publicity segments for purported health products, during their “Aprende a Cuidarte” (Learn to care for yourself) segment, part of the hit TV show ’Sálvame.’ The segment, said the CNMC, “seeks to publicize a product, directing the audience towards it’s purchase” during a segment specifically characterized by the company as ‘informative content’.

    In the case of Atresmedia, authorities have sanctioned the company for broadcasting adult content without the proper rating. Two specific complaints concern the showing of the film “American Playboy”, which was rated as “12 and above” despite its explicit sexual and adult content, warranting a rating of 16+, and the All Ages rating given to the long-running sit-com “Two & a Half Men”. The company has also been accused of intentionally attempting to avoid re-rating this program, repeatedly violating obligations imposed in July. The lack of proper ratings and the deliberate violation of the Self-Regulation code both constitute serious violations.

    “Although exceptional cases may justify it in a specific moment, the vast majority (cotton, gauze, bandages, stool absorbers and excreta cleansers, etc.) do not require specialized personel to handle them.”

    Source: ADSL Zone

    Want more news? Subscribe to CPI’s free daily newsletter for more headlines and updates on antitrust developments around the world.