A new trade group has launched for using "influencers" who advertise products and services through their social media accounts.

The Influencer Marketing Association is "committed to protecting the authenticity and ethics of influencer marketing," according to a statement by the new group. Founding members include marketing and communications agencies HUNTER and 360PR+ as well as electronics retailer Best Buy.

"We founded the Influencer Marketing Association to help establish parameters and guardrails for this growing and changing industry," IMA Executive Director Kristy Sammis said. "We believe in the value of integrating the human element and leading-edge technology while operating under a set of ethical standards to help brands achieve marketing objectives. We hope to be a resource for brands and agencies looking for authentic, credible, objective influencer marketing strategies."

Individuals and brands must have at least three years of influencer marketing experiences before they can apply for membership, according to the group's website.