Which of the following is a characteristic that advertisements may NOT display?

Advertisements are designed to persuade and inform potential customers, and while they often display excitement and creativity to capture attention, as well as professional language and decorum to maintain a trustworthy image, they are fundamentally expected to adhere to standards of accuracy and honesty. This is critical for preserving consumer trust and protecting businesses from legal repercussions.

The characteristic of displaying fraudulent, false, deceptive, or misleading statements stands out because it directly contradicts the ethical and legal standards expected in advertising. Regulations such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) guidelines prohibit such practices, as they can mislead consumers and create an unfair marketplace. Therefore, while other elements like excitement or professionalism may enhance an advertisement’s appeal, misleading information is outright unacceptable and not a valid characteristic that advertisements should exhibit.