New Zealand’s largest vape retailer, Shosha, has been accused of using hidden text on its website to promote vape products in ways that may breach strict advertising rules, according to The Press. Vape-Free Kids NZ co-founders say Shosha ran Christmas promotions featuring a cartoon Santa and embedded white text on white backgrounds in product pages that is only visible to humans when highlighted, but can be read by search engines, potentially circumventing regulations that limit online product information.
An academic expert said the hidden text can influence search rankings despite advertising bans, while the report also raises concerns about alleged discounting through free shipping offers and an international website mirroring New Zealand product descriptions. Shosha did not respond to media questions, and the Health Ministry said it is assessing the matter and continues to monitor digital advertising for possible legal breaches.