Definition
Paid content made to look like the articles, videos or posts around it; the FTC says it must be identifiable as an ad.
What it means
Native advertising is paid promotion designed to blend in with the editorial or entertainment content around it, such as a sponsored article, a branded video or a paid post styled like regular content. The Federal Trade Commission says an ad's format must not mislead people about its commercial nature: if it could be mistaken for independent content, it needs a clear disclosure that it is an ad. The FTC's guide for businesses advises placing the label where people look first, such as near the headline, making it stand out, and keeping it when the content is shared or republished. Creators who publish sponsored segments or paid articles should label them as advertising.
Example
A travel site publishes a hotel chain's paid article about weekend trips with a clear "Paid advertisement" label above the headline.
Illustrative numbers only. Your situation will differ.