FTC

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is an independent federal agency of the United States government established in 1914 by the Federal Trade Commission Act. Its core mandate is to protect consumers and maintain competition by enforcing laws against unfair or deceptive practices and against unfair methods of competition, as defined under Section 5 of the FTC Act.

The FTC was created during the Progressive Era to address monopolistic practices and promote fair competition. Over time, its remit expanded to include broad consumer protection in the marketplace, with investigations and enforcement across a range of sectors, including advertising, marketing, and data practices.

The agency is led by five commissioners appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate; no more than three commissioners may be from the same political party. It operates through three principal bureaus—the Bureau of Consumer Protection, the Bureau of Competition, and the Bureau of Economics—as well as a General Counsel's office and other offices focused on policy planning, research, and education. The FTC investigates alleged violations, brings civil actions in federal court, and negotiates settlements such as consent orders and civil penalties. It also engages in rulemaking, market studies, and consumer education.

In its activities, the FTC pursues deceptive advertising, privacy and data security violations, and other unfair or deceptive practices, in addition to antitrust concerns. It collaborates with state attorneys general, other federal agencies, and international regulators, and maintains complaint channels and research programs to monitor markets, including digital and emerging technologies.

Critics have raised questions about the agency’s scope, resource levels, and regulatory approach, particularly regarding technology platforms and evolving data practices. The FTC continues to adapt to changes in markets while balancing consumer protection and competition goals.