The FTC protects consumers by stopping unfair, deceptive or fraudulent practices in the marketplace . We conduct investigations, sue companies and people that violate the law, develop rules to ensure a vibrant marketplace, and educate consumers and businesses about their rights and responsibilities.
What does the Federal Trade Commission regulate?
The FTC enforces federal consumer protection laws that prevent fraud, deception and unfair business practices . The Commission also enforces federal antitrust laws that prohibit anticompetitive mergers and other business practices that could lead to higher prices, fewer choices, or less innovation.
What trade issues does the FTC monitor or regulate?
The Federal Trade Commission enforces a variety of antitrust and consumer protection laws affecting virtually every area of commerce, with some exceptions concerning banks, insurance companies, non-profits, transportation and communications common carriers, air carriers, and some other entities.
Does the FTC regulate international trade?
The FTC works with more than 100 foreign competition and consumer protection authorities around the world, and cooperates with foreign authorities on enforcement and policy matters through formal and informal agreements. ...
What products does the FTC regulate?
- Alcohol. ...
- Appliances. ...
- Automobiles. ...
- Finance. ...
- Franchises, Business Opportunities, and Investments. ...
- Funerals. ...
- Human Resources. ...
- Non-Profits.
What is an FTC violation?
Administrative Enforcement of Consumer Protection and Competition Laws. Under Section 5(b) of the FTC Act
Does filing a complaint with the FTC do anything?
The FTC cannot resolve individual complaints , but it can provide information about what steps to take. The FTC says that complaints can help it and its law enforcement partners detect patterns of fraud and abuse, which may lead to investigations and stopping unfair business practices.
Who does the FTC Act apply to?
Section 5(a) of the Federal Trade Commission Act (FTC Act) (15 USC §45) prohibits “unfair or deceptive acts or practices in or affecting commerce.” This prohibition applies to all persons engaged in commerce, including banks .
Is the FTC effective?
Despite criticism of its regulatory inadequacy, the FTC has successfully brought legal actions against many businesses addressing a wide range of data privacy issues including peer-to-peer file sharing, social media networking, spam, spyware, behavioral advertising and failure to adhere to privacy commitments.
Who does the FTC report to?
FTC's work is performed by the Bureaus of Consumer Protection, Competition and Economics . That work is aided by the Office of General Counsel and seven regional offices.
What happens if you violate the FTC Act?
Criminal prosecutions are typically limited to intentional and clear violations such as when competitors fix prices or rig bids . The Sherman Act
What is an example of FTC?
The Federal Trade Commission is divided into three bureaus that have different regulation and protection responsibilities. ... For example, the FTC might investigate whether a retail company has special agreements with a supplier that violates anti-trust law and gives them an unfair advantage over their competitors .
Who is over the FTC?
| Agency overview | Employees 1,131 (December 2011) | Annual budget $311 million (FY 2019) | Agency executive Lina Khan, Chair | Website www.ftc.gov |
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How long do FTC investigations take?
The FTC's Rules of Practice govern its adjudicative proceedings (16 C.F.R. §§ 3.1-3.83). FTC evidentiary hearings are open to the public and are intended to be expeditious ( around 200 hours ).
How do I find FTC enforcement actions?
If you regularly use FTC.gov to find cases, speeches, reports or such, then you've probably noticed a few changes. ... But with added features like drop-down menus and filters, finding what you need on the new FTC.gov should be easier than ever.
