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Federal Trade Commission

The Federal Trade Commission is the federal agency that protects consumers and promotes fair competition in the marketplace. It acts against deceptive advertising, unfair sales practices, fraud, and failures to protect personal data, and it enforces antitrust law alongside the Department of Justice. It is run by a panel of commissioners.

People usually bring questions about how to report a scam, identity theft, or a misleading business, and what happens after a complaint. They also ask what labels such as “Made in USA” must mean, how hidden charges and fees are treated, and how the agency decides which companies to investigate.

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October 9last updated

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All Articles on Federal Trade Commission

Surveillance Pricing: How Your Data Shapes What You Pay

Surveillance pricing uses personal data to shape offers. Federal oversight, state protections and privacy choices determine what shoppers can challenge.

16 Min Read

How to Contact the FTC: Reporting Fraud, Identity Theft, and Business Violations

The Federal Trade Commission protects American consumers from deceptive business practices and maintains fair market competition. Established in 1914, this federal agency investigates misleading…

20 Min Read

“Made in USA” Labels: What Products Qualify and How Companies Get Caught

The "Made in USA" label is one of the most powerful marketing tools in American retail. Shoppers consistently say they prefer American-made goods and…

30 Min Read

Junk Fees: The Hidden Costs Americans Pay

You've found the perfect hotel room for $89 a night. You enter your credit card information, click "book now," and suddenly the total jumps…

34 Min Read