FTC Announces Schedule for Reviewing Regulations

As part of the Federal Trade Commission's systematic review of all current FTC rules and guides, the agency is announcing a modified 10-year regulatory review schedule.  (read more)

Operators of Two Bogus Tech Support Schemes Settle FTC Charges

One Operator Also Settles Charges He Illegally Telemarketed Debt Relief Services (read more)

FTC Testifies on Fraud Against Older Americans

The Federal Trade Commission testified before a U.S. House of Representatives Energy and Commerce subcommittee about consumer protection issues facing older Americans, including the agency’s efforts to combat fraud and its education and outreach efforts to help seniors protect themselves. (read more)

FTC Sends Educational Letters to Businesses to Help Them Prepare for COPPA Update

More Than 90 Letters Issued to App Developers in Advance of July 1 Implementation Date (read more)

FTC Issues Annual Financial Acts Enforcement Letter to CFPB

The Federal Trade Commission has issued its annual letter to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) on FTC enforcement and related activities regarding the Truth in Lending Act (TILA), Consumer Leasing Act (CLA), Electronic Fund Transfer Act (EFTA), and Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA). (read more)

FTC Settlement Requires California Company to Halt Illegal Robocalls

Company Allegedly Used "Voice Broadcasting" to Help Clients Transmit Unwanted Calls (read more)

FTC Provides $1.7 Million in Refunds to Nearly 23,000 Consumers Who Lost Money in 'Free Government Grant' Scheme

An administrator working for the Federal Trade Commission today began mailing refund checks totalling approximately $1.7 million to 22,764 consumers who were defrauded by a group that used websites to falsely claim they could help consumers get free government grant money. (read more)

FTC Testifies on Credit Reporting Accuracy Study, FCRA Enforcement, Credit Education

The Federal Trade Commission testified before a U.S. Senate Commerce subcommittee on a recent FTC study examining the accuracy of consumer credit reports, as well as the agency’s efforts to improve credit report accuracy through enforcement and education. (read more)

FTC Says Mobile Cramming Webcast Viewers Can Submit Questions Online

Staff Will Also Live-Tweet Roundtable (read more)

FTC Warns Data Broker Operations of Possible Privacy Violations

Letters Issued As Part of Global Privacy Protection Effort (read more)

FTC Votes Unanimously to Retain July 1 Date for Implementation of the Updated Children’s Online Privacy Protection Rule

The Federal Trade Commission voted unanimously to retain the July 1, 2013 date for implementation of the updated Children’s Online Privacy Protection Rule. (read more)

FTC Invites Public to Submit Questions Online During Senior ID Theft Workshop

Agency Will Live-Tweet Workshop, Take Questions Via Social Media (read more)

FTC Approves Final Order Settling Charges Against Cbr Systems, Inc.

Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission has approved a final order settling charges that Cbr Systems, Inc. failed to protect the security of customers’ personal information and that its inadequate security practices led to a breach that exposed the Social Security numbers and debit and credit card information of nearly 300,000 consumers. (read more)

FTC Settlement Bars Seller of Prepaid Calling Cards from Deceptive Marketing

Cards Tested by the FTC Averaged Just 40 Percent of Minutes Advertised (read more)

Federal Trade Commission, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to Co-Host Roundtable on Data Integrity in Debt Collection

The Federal Trade Commission and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau will co-host a roundtable on June 6, 2013, to examine the flow of consumer data throughout the debt collection process. (read more)

FTC Approves Final Order Settling Charges Against Marketers of Criminal Background Screening Reports

Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission has approved a final order settling charges that Filiquarian Publishing LLC, Choice Level LLC, and their CEO, Joshua Linsk operated as a consumer reporting agency without taking consumer protection measures required by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).  (read more)

FTC Announces Agenda, Panelists for Upcoming Mobile Cramming Roundtable

Consumer advocates, government officials and industry representatives will take part in a roundtable discussion on mobile cramming hosted by the Federal Trade Commission on May 8. (read more)

FTC Seeks Public Input on Proposed Changes to Textile Labeling Rules; FTC Closes Investigations of 3 Football Helmet Manufacturers; FTC to Host Roundtable on Possible Changes to Jewelry Industry Marketing Guides

The Federal Trade Commission is proposing changes to its Textile Labeling Rules. The staff of the Federal Trade Commission has closed its investigations of three companies that manufacture and sell football helmet. The Federal Trade Commission will host a public roundtable on June 19, 2013, in Washington, DC, to examine possible changes to the agency's Jewelry Guides. (read more)

FTC Announces Agenda, Panelists for Upcoming Senior ID Theft Workshop

Consumer advocates, government officials and representatives of private industry will take part in the May 7 Federal Trade Commission workshop titled "Senior Identity Theft: A Problem in this Day and Age." (read more)

FTC Issues Updated FAQs on Amended Children's Online Privacy Protection Rule

Questions and Answers Provide Guidance for Industry (read more)

FTC Approves Final Order Settling Competition Charges Against Robert Bosch GmbH; FTC Staff Files Comment With Illinois Legislature Regarding Pain Management Services

Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission has approved a final order settling charges that Robert Bosch GmbH's acquisition of the SPX Service Solutions business of SPX Corporation would have given it a virtual monopoly in the market for air conditioning recycling, recovery, and recharge devices for vehicles. Federal Trade Commission staff has responded to a request from Illinois State Senator Heather Steans for comments on a proposed state law that would allow only physicians to provide chronic interventional pain treatments, and bar certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) from providing pain management services that they currently provide, such as epidural injections. (read more)

FTC Wins Court Judgment Against Remaining NHS Systems Defendants

Defendants Barred From Telemarketing; Ordered To Pay Almost $6.9 Million (read more)

FTC Survey for 2011 Shows an Estimated 25.6 Million Americans Fell Victim to Fraud

The Federal Trade Commission today released a statistical survey of fraud in the United States during 2011, which showed that an estimated 25.6 million adults - 10.8 percent of the adult population - were fraud victims. (read more)

FTC Alerts Consumers Who Want to Help Boston Bombing Victims

The Federal Trade Commission, the nation’s consumer protection agency, has tips for people who may want to donate money to the victims and families of the Boston bombings. (read more)

FTC Staff Comment Supports Proposed Social Security Administration Policy Change to Help Protect Children From Identity Theft

In a comment submitted to the Social Security Administration, the staff of the Federal Trade Commission’s Bureau of Consumer Protection expressed support for an SSA proposal designed to protect children from identity theft. Staff also recommended two refinements to the SSA proposal to provide further safeguards. (read more)

FTC Amends Alternative Fuels Rule to Make Compliance Easier

The Federal Trade Commission has issued final amendments to the Alternative Fuels Rule, consolidating the labels required on alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs) with those required by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), eliminating the need for two different labels and reducing the burden of complying with the Rule. (read more)

FTC Seeks Input on Privacy and Security Implications of the Internet of Things

Commission Staff to Conduct Workshop on Nov. 21 (read more)

FTC Files Its First Case Against Mobile Phone "Cramming"

Complaint Alleges Unauthorized Charges for 'Premium' Text Message Services (read more)

FTC Approves Final Order Settling Charges Against Software and Rent-to-Own Companies Accused of Computer Spying

Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission has approved nine final orders settling charges that seven rent-to-own companies and a software design firm and its two principals spied on consumers using computers that consumers rented from them. (read more)

FTC Chairwoman Releases 2013 Annual Highlights

Federal Trade Commission Chairwoman Edith Ramirez released the agency’s 2013 Annual Highlights today at the Spring Meeting of the American Bar Association’s Section of Antitrust Law in Washington, D.C., recognizing the FTC’s continued efforts to protect consumers and promote competition. (read more)

FTC Files Amended Complaint, Renewed Motions Seeking to Stop Integration of Phoebe Putney Health System and Former Palmyra Park Hospital in Albany, Ga.

The Federal Trade Commission this week filed renewed motions in its ongoing litigation related to Phoebe Putney Health System's now consummated acquisition of Palmyra Park Hospital in Albany, Georgia. (read more)

FTC Submits Fiscal Year 2014 Budget Request and Performance Plans to Congress

The Federal Trade Commission has submitted its Fiscal Year 2014 budget request to Congress, including the FY 2014 Budget Overview Statement, and FY 2013 and FY 2014 Performance Plans required under the Government Performance and Results and Modernization Act of 2010. (read more)

FTC Video Helps Funeral Providers Comply with the Funeral Rule

The Federal Trade Commission has released a new video to help businesses that sell funeral goods and services comply with the Funeral Rule. (read more)

FTC and New York and Florida Attorneys General Amend Complaint Against The Tax Club, Charged with Bilking Consumers Trying to Launch Home-Based Businesses

The Federal Trade Commission has amended a complaint against The Tax Club defendants, who in January 2013 were charged by the FTC and the New York and Florida Attorneys General with deceiving consumers who believed the defendants’ services would help their home-based businesses succeed. (read more)

Federal Trade Commission Posts New Video to Help Identity Theft Victims

If you’re a victim of identity theft or know someone who is, the Federal Trade Commission has a new video designed to help facilitators who assist consumers in repairing their identity. (read more)

FTC Sends Refunds to Consumers Harmed by Foreclosure Relief Scheme

The Federal Trade Commission mailed 341 refund checks to Spanish-speaking consumers who lost money to scammers who promised to stop foreclosure or obtain mortgage loan modifications. (read more)

FTC Warns Data Brokers That Provide Tenant Rental Histories They May Be Subject to Fair Credit Reporting Act

The Federal Trade Commission has warned the operators of six websites that share information about consumers’ rental histories with landlords that they may be subject to the requirements of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). (read more)

FTC Announces Robocall Challenge Winners

Proposals Would Use Call Filter Software to Reduce Illegal Calls (read more)

FTC to Announce Winners of Robocall Challenge

The Federal Trade Commission will announce the winners of the FTC Robocall Challenge in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, April 2, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. (read more)

New FTC Graphic Highlights Key Information About Mobile Apps for Kids

For parents, the growing universe of mobile applications targeted at kids can be overwhelming. Knowing which app is the right fit for your family poses a major challenge to parents on the go. (read more)

In Settlement with FTC, Debt Collectors Agree to Stop Deceiving Consumers and Pay Nearly $800,000

Consumers Allegedly Were Tricked into Paying Unnecessary Fees and Falsely Threatened with Legal Action (read more)

FTC Undercover Shopper Survey on Entertainment Ratings Enforcement Finds Compliance Highest Among Video Game Sellers and Movie Theaters

Other Retailers Also Improved Since Last Survey (read more)

FTC Reopens Public Comment Period on Proposed Changes to Update EnergyGuide Labels

In response to requests from stakeholders, the Federal Trade Commission has reopened the public comment period, until April 1, 2013, on a recent proposal to update EnergyGuide label information and issue special labels for refrigerators and clothes washers to help consumers compare products in the wake of new Department of Energy tests for measuring energy costs.  (read more)

FTC Returns More than $1.1 Million to Victims of Operation Involving Allegedly Bogus Health Insurance

The Federal Trade Commission is mailing 50,395 refund checks totaling more than $1.1 million to consumers who were victimized by a telemarketing operation that allegedly tricked them into buying worthless medical discount plans.  (read more)

FTC Stops Foreign Operation That Scammed Many Small Businesses and Nonprofits Into Paying Millions of Dollars for Bogus Online Directory

At the Federal Trade Commission’s request, a federal judge has temporarily halted a Slovakia-based operation that allegedly tricked small businesses and non-profits into collectively paying millions of dollars to be listed in an online directory in which they had no interest in being listed and for which they did not understand they would be charged. (read more)

FTC Approves Final Order Settling Charges Against Epic Marketplace, Inc.

Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission has approved a final order settling charges that Epic Marketplace, Inc. used "history sniffing" to secretly and illegally determine whether millions of consumers had visited any of more than 54,000 domains. (read more)

Retailers Agree to Settle FTC Charges They Marketed Real Fur Products as Fake Fur

Three clothing retailers have agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that they misled consumers by marketing that products contained “faux fur,” when in fact, the products contained real fur. (read more)

At FTC's Request, Court Halts Repeat Offender’s Most Recent Scam

Defendant Violated 1998 Order by Operating Bogus Prize Promotion Scheme (read more)

Defendants Banned from Payment Processing, Will Pay $950,000 in FTC Settlement

Allegedly Debited Millions of Dollars from Consumers’ Bank Accounts Without Their Consent (read more)

FTC Announces Video With Tips for Mobile App Developers

Video Provides Important Information on Advertising Rules, Privacy (read more)

FTC Staff Makes Recommendations to Texas Public Utility Commission on Programs to Improve Reliability of Electricity Markets

Federal Trade Commission staff submitted a comment in response to a request from the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC) for comments on demand response (DR) as one aspect of the PUC’s ongoing review of the reliability of electricity markets. (read more)

FTC Staff Revises Online Advertising Disclosure Guidelines

"Dot Com Disclosures" Guidance Updated to Address Current Online and Mobile Advertising Environment (read more)

FTC Action Halts Brooklyn Company from Using Deception, Threats, and Intimidation to Trick Elderly Consumers Into Paying for Unordered Medical Alert Devices

At the Federal Trade Commission's request, a U.S. district court has temporarily shut down a Brooklyn, New York-based operation that the allegedly used deception, threats, and intimidation to induce elderly consumers to pay for medical alert systems they neither ordered nor wanted. (read more)

FTC Staff Report Examines Growing Use of Mobile Payments

Report Includes Recommendations for Industry (read more)

FTC to Host Mobile Cramming Roundtable May 8

Interested Parties Invited to Submit Requests to Participate (read more)

Marketers of Alleged "Mass Joinder" and "Forensic Loan Audit" Mortgage Relief Services Scams Settle FTC Charges, Agree to Surrender Assets and Halt Deceptive Conduct

All But One Defendant Banned from Marketing Mortgage- and Debt-Relief Services (read more)

FTC Cracks Down on Senders of Spam Text Messages Promoting "Free" Gift Cards

Defendants Were Responsible for More than 180 Million Spam Text Messages (read more)

FTC Sends Over $1 Million in Refunds to Consumers Harmed by Mortgage Relief Scheme That Posed as Government Assistance Program

The Federal Trade Commission mailed 17,213 refund checks to consumers who were deceived by an operation that charged an up-front fee for bogus mortgage relief services and posed as a government mortgage assistance program. (read more)

FTC to Announce Nationwide Crackdown on Text Message Scams

The Federal Trade Commission will host a media availability Thursday, March 7 at 11:30 a.m. ET/10:30 a.m. CT at its Midwest Region Office in Chicago to announce a series of enforcement actions designed to protect consumers nationwide from a pervasive series of scams built on text messages. (read more)

FTC Approves Final Orders Settling Charges Against The Sherwin-Williams Co. and PPG Architectural Finishes, Inc.; Issues Enforcement Policy Statement on "Zero VOC" Paint Claims

Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission approved final orders settling charges that The Sherwin-Williams Co. and PPG Architectural Finishes, Inc. made false and unsubstantiated claims that some of their paints contained zero volatile organic compounds (VOCs) after tinting.  (read more)

FTC Warns Small Businesses: Don't Open Email Falsely Claiming to be From FTC

The Federal Trade Commission is warning small businesses: An email that pretends to be from the FTC with "NOTIFICATION OF CONSUMER COMPLAINT" in the subject line is not from the FTC. (read more)

National Consumer Protection Week 2013 Kicks Off Sunday, March 3

FTC Joins Consumer Agencies Nationwide to Share Information, Encourage Action (read more)

Edith Ramirez to Lead the Federal Trade Commission

President Barack Obama intends to designate Edith Ramirez as Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission effective Monday, March 4, 2013. (read more)

FTC Returns More than $685,000 to Victims of "Real Wealth" Work-at-Home and Grant Scam

The Federal Trade Commission is mailing 50,365 refund checks totaling more than $685,000 to consumers who were victimized by a bogus work-at-home and grant scam. (read more)

Comment Period Remains Open for FTC Data Collection Workshop

The Federal Trade Commission reminds members of the public that the period for submitting comments on its recent comprehensive data collection workshop remains open until March 8. (read more)

FTC Releases Top 10 Complaint Categories for 2012

Identity Theft Tops List for 13th Consecutive Year in Report of National Consumer Complaints (read more)

FTC Warns Veterans: Be Wary of 'Free' Pension Advice

The Federal Trade Commission warns veterans and their families: Be wary of dishonest advisers offering "free" help with paperwork for pension claims. (read more)

FTC Approves Final Order Settling Charges Against Compete, Inc.

Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission has approved a final order settling charges that Compete, Inc. violated the Federal Trade Commission Act by using its web-tracking software that collected personal information without disclosing the extent of the information it was collecting through its products and third party web tools. (read more)

HTC America Settles FTC Charges It Failed to Secure Millions of Mobile Devices Shipped to Consumers

Company Required to Patch Vulnerabilities on Smartphones and Tablets (read more)

FTC to Host Public Forum on Threats to Mobile Devices on June 4

Forum Will Address Threats to Smartphones and Other Devices from Viruses, Malware (read more)

FTC Seeks Public Comments on Proposed Freedom of Information Act Fee Changes; Also Publishes Final Rule Making the FOIA Process More Transparent to the Public

The Federal Trade Commission has issued a Federal Register notice seeking public comment on proposed amendments to the agency’s fee rule and accompanying fee schedule for Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests. (read more)

FTC Settlement Bans Telemarketers from Selling Healthcare-Related Products

Telemarketers Allegedly Bilked Millions of Dollars from Consumers Seeking Health Insurance (read more)

FTC Action Halts Operation That Billed More Than $25 Million to Consumers' Bank and Credit Card Accounts without Their Consent

At the Federal Trade Commission’ request, a federal court has temporarily halted an operation that allegedly used an intricate web of concealment to debit hundreds of thousands of consumers’ bank accounts and bill their credit cards more than $25 million without their consent. (read more)

Robocaller Banned From Telemarketing in Settlement with FTC

The architect of an operation that allegedly distributed illegal robocalls offering credit card interest rate reduction programs, extended automobile warranties, and home security systems, is banned from telemarketing under a settlement with the Federal Trade Commission. (read more)

FTC Sends Refunds from Scheme That Allegedly Sold Bogus Plans to Lower Credit Card Interest Rate

All Victims Who Could Be Identified to Get Full Refund (read more)

FTC Announces New Videos to Help You Be Secure Online

Today, the Federal Trade Commission released a series of video tips to help you protect your personal information online. (read more)

FTC To Host Workshop Examining the Effects of Identity Theft on Older Americans

The Federal Trade Commission will host a one-day workshop on May 7, 2013, exploring how identity theft impacts older Americans. (read more)

At Tax Time, FTC Reminds Consumers: Watch Out for Identity Theft

With the tax-filing season upon us, the Federal Trade Commission, the nation's consumer protection agency, reminds consumers to be aware of the threat of identity theft.  (read more)

Identity Theft/Tax Fraud Focus of February 20 Town Hall Hosted by FTC and Florida Attorney General in Boca Raton

The Federal Trade Commission and the Florida Attorney General’s Office will host a town hall on identity theft and tax fraud on Wednesday, February 20, 2013, in Boca Raton, Florida. (read more)

FTC Continues Vigorous Enforcement of Fair Debt Collection Practices Act

Over the last year, the Federal Trade Commission has continued vigorously enforcing the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act by bringing or resolving seven debt collection cases, according to the agency's annual letter to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. (read more)

FTC Extends Deadline for Comments on its Review of Fred Meyer Guides

Guides Advise Businesses How to Avoid Illegal Discrimination in the Provision of Promotional Allowances and Services (read more)

FTC Approves Modified Final Order Settling Charges against Marketer of Four Loko Malt Beverage

Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission has finalized a modified Order settling charges against Phusion Projects, LLC, and its principals for falsely claiming that a 23.5-ounce can of Four Loko contains the alcohol equivalent of one or two regular 12-ounce beers, and that a consumer could drink one entire can safely on a single occasion.  (read more)

In FTC Study, Five Percent of Consumers Had Errors on Their Credit Reports That Could Result in Less Favorable Terms for Loans

Consumers Should Check Their Credit Reports for Free Using AnnualCreditReport.com (read more)

FTC Extends Deadline for Comments on Proposed Modifications to Used Car Rule

Proposed Buyers Guide Sticker Advises Consumers to Seek Vehicle Information History and Directs Spanish Speakers to a Spanish Version of the Guide (read more)

Defendants in Alleged "Forensic Audit" Mortgage Scam Settle FTC Charges

Marketers Held Out Bogus Promise that They Could Help Consumers Avoid Foreclosure; Often Charged Thousands of Dollars (read more)

FTC Permanently Stops Fake News Website Operator that Allegedly Deceived Consumers about Acai Berry Weight-Loss Products

Settlements will Yield more than $1.6 Million and Conclude Sweep against Online Affiliate Marketers and Networks (read more)

FTC Settlement: Tax Relief Scammers Agree to Pay More Than $15 Million

PAmerican Tax Relief Scheme Bilked Consumers With False Promises They Qualified for IRS Programs to Reduce Tax Debts (read more)

Path Social Networking App Settles FTC Charges it Deceived Consumers and Improperly Collected Personal Information from Users' Mobile Address Books

Company also Will Pay $800,000 for Allegedly Collecting Kids' Personal Information without their Parents’ Consent (read more)

FTC Staff Report Recommends Ways to Improve Mobile Privacy Disclosures

Recommendations Would Help Build Trust in the Mobile Marketplace, Agency Says (read more)

FTC Chairman Jon Leibowitz to Step Down This Month

After nearly four years as the head of the Federal Trade Commission, Chairman Jon Leibowitz today announced he will step down on February 15, 2013. He has been a Commissioner since September 3, 2004. (read more)

FTC to Present Report on Mobile Privacy, Announce Enforcement Action

Report Highlights Ways to Build Trust in Mobile Marketplace (read more)

FTC Action Leads to Court Order: Home Insulation Marketer to Pay $350,000

Energy- and Cost-Saving Claims Were Deceptive and Unsubstantiated (read more)

FTC Robocall Challenge Garners More Than 700 Submissions

Prizes include $50,000 to Block Illegal Robocalls (read more)

FTC Action Leads to Shutdown of Texas-based Debt Collector that Allegedly Used Deception, Insults, and False Threats Against Consumers

At the request of the Federal Trade Commission, a U.S. district court shut down a Houston-based debt collection operation that allegedly illegally used insults, lies, and false threats to collect on payday loans – including telling a Virginia woman that she would be arrested and jailed for three years, and would lose her disability payments if she did not pay a $980 debt. (read more)

The First of Its Kind, FTC Study Shines a Light on the Debt Buying Industry, Finds Consumers Would Benefit from Use of Better Data in Debt Collection

The Federal Trade Commission today announced the results of the first empirical study of debt buyers – companies that are in the business of buying consumer debts and trying to collect on them.  (read more)

Settlement with FTC Bans Sellers of Alleged Fraudulent Auto Loan Modifications from Marketing Debt Relief Services

"Auto Debt Consulting" Operation Permanently Halted (read more)

FTC Sends $7.4 Million in Refunds to Consumers Harmed by Scheme That Sold Allegedly Bogus 'Platinum' Credit Card

On January 16, 2013, the Federal Trade Commission mailed 70,511 refund checks to consumers who lost money to a scheme that allegedly sold bogus “platinum” credit cards and illegally debited consumers’ bank accounts. (read more)

FTC Brings Seventh Action in Three Months Against Debt Relief Companies

FTC Brings Seventh Action in Three Months Against Debt Relief Companies Tampa Telemarketers Alleged to Have Falsely Promised To Save Consumers Thousands on Credit Card Debt (read more)

FTC Action Leads Court to Halt Alleged Pyramid Scheme

FHTM Promoted Itself as a Path to Financial Independence, But Most People Made Little or No Money (read more)

FTC Announces Action Against Alleged Pyramid Scheme

The Federal Trade Commission will co-host a press conference in Lexington, KY, today at 1 p.m. ET (Noon Central Time), with the Kentucky Attorney General’s office, to announce a major action against an allegedly illegal pyramid scheme. (read more)

Cord Blood Bank Settles FTC Charges that it Failed to Protect Consumer' Sensitive Personal Information

Security Breach Allegedly Exposed Nearly 300,000 Consumers' Information (read more)

FTC Staff Warns 11 Jonesboro, Arkansas, Used Car Dealers for Not Displaying 'Buyers Guides'

The Federal Trade Commission’s Southwest Region Office has warned 11 used car dealerships in Jonesboro, Arkansas, that their sales practices violate the FTC’s Used Car Rule, which requires used car dealers to display a “Buyers Guide” detailing warranty and other important information on the cars they sell.  (read more)

FTC Staff Makes Recommendations to New York Public Service Commission on Competition and Consumer Protection Measures in Retail Electricity Markets

Federal Trade Commission staff submitted a comment in response to a request from the New York State Public Service Commission (NY PSC) for comments on competition and consumer protection rules in New York's retail electricity markets.  (read more)

FTC Approves Final Revised Energy Labeling Rule for Home Heating and Cooling Equipment

The Federal Trade Commission is issuing changes to its Energy Labeling Rule, which will add regional information to the familiar yellow EnergyGuide label on residential furnaces and central air conditioners (read more)

Court Bans Operators of Allegedly Deceptive Timeshare Scheme From the Timeshare Business, Orders $6.3 Million Judgment

FTC Alleged that Defendants Falsely Claimed They Had Buyers Lined Up for Consumers’ Properties (read more)

FTC Seeks $22 Million from Wife and Parents of Ringleader Behind Alleged Utah-based Internet Billing Scheme I Works

Mansion and Silver Bars Among Alleged Ill-Gotten Gains (read more)

FTC Asks Court to Shut Down $70 Million Cramming Operation

American eVoice, Ltd. Allegedly Placed Bogus Charges on Consumers' Phone Bills (read more)

FTC and New York and Florida Attorneys General Charge The Tax Club's Telemarketing Scheme with Bilking Consumers Who Were Trying to Launch Home-Based Businesses

The Federal Trade Commission and the New York and Florida Attorneys General charged The Tax Club's telemarketing operation with deceiving consumers who mistakenly believed its services would help their home-based business succeed.  (read more)

Marketer of 9/11 Commemoratives to Settle FTC Charges

National Collector's Mint Inc., which sold 9/11-related coins and collectibles, including an "exclusively authorized" commemorative honoring the 10th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks, has agreed to pay $750,000 to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that it deceived consumers, charged them for items they never ordered, and failed to properly mark its imitation items with "COPY." (read more)

FTC Settlement Obtains Permanent Ban Against Abusive Debt Collection Operation

Scheme Allegedly Targeted Consumers and Small Businesses (read more)

Business 'Coaching' Marketers Agree to Settle FTC Charges

Ivy Capital Allegedly Took Millions from Consumers Trying to Run Their Own Online Businesses (read more)

FTC Commissioners Uphold Trial Judge Decision that POM Wonderful, LLC; Stewart and Lynda Resnick; Others Deceptively Advertised Pomegranate Products by Making Unsupported Health Claims

The Federal Trade Commission upheld an Administrative Law Judge's decision that the marketers of POM Wonderful 100% Pomegranate Juice and POMx supplements deceptively advertised their products and did not have adequate support for claims that the products could treat, prevent, or reduce the risk of heart disease, prostate cancer, and erectile dysfunction, and that they were clinically proven to work.  (read more)

Joshua D. Wright Begins Term at Federal Trade Commission

Federal Trade Commission Chairman Jon Leibowitz welcomed Joshua D. Wright as an FTC Commissioner at a swearing-in ceremony today. (read more)

Marketers of Criminal Background Screening Reports To Settle FTC Charges They Violated Fair Credit Reporting Act

Pitched Mobile Apps Offering Job Applicant Screening Tools (read more)

Defendants in Dominican Mortgage Assistance Scam that Allegedly Defrauded Spanish-Speaking U.S. Homeowners Settle FTC Charges

Telemarketers Who Allegedly Falsely Claimed Affiliation with Federal Mortgage Assistance Programs Are Banned from Mortgage Assistance Business (read more)

FTC to Consumers: You May be Due a Refund for Dietary Supplements

FTC Challenged Marketers' Claims that Products could Cause Weight Loss or Treat and Prevent Colds, Flu, and Allergies (read more)

Four National Retailers Agree to Pay Penalties Totaling $1.26 Million for Allegedly Falsely Labeling Textiles as Made of Bamboo, While They Actually Were Rayon

Amazon, Leon Max, Macy's, and Sears Ignored Warning Letters FTC Sent in 2010 (read more)

FTC Announces Enforcement Policy Statement for Retailers that Directly Import Textile, Wool, and Fur Products

The Federal Trade Commission today announced an Enforcement Policy Statement regarding the Textile Fiber Products Identification Act, the Wool Products Labeling Act, and the Fur Products Labeling Act concerning treatment of certain retailers that directly import textile, wool, and fur products. (read more)

FTC Amends Appliance Labeling Rule to Ease Burdens on Businesses

Also Proposes Changes to Update Labels on Refrigerators and Clothes Washers (read more)

FTC Concludes Regulatory Review of Cooling Off Rule; Proposes Increase in Threshold Amount for Coverage by the Rule from $25 to $130 Worth of Consumer Goods or Services

As part of its systematic regulatory review process, and following public comment, the Federal Trade Commission announced that it is retaining the Cooling Off Rule and proposed increasing its $25 exclusionary limit to $130 to account for inflation. (read more)

FTC Releases Follow-Up Study Detailing Promotional Activities, Expenditures, and Nutritional Profiles of Food Marketed to Children and Adolescents

Commends Industry for Progress, Urges Broader Participation and Continued Improvement (read more)

FTC Strengthens Kids' Privacy, Gives Parents Greater Control Over Their Information By Amending Children's Online Privacy Protection Rule

Rule Being Modified to Keep Up with Changing Technology (read more)

Senator Rockefeller, FTC Chairman Leibowitz to Announce Updated COPPA Rule That Strengthens Kids' Privacy Protections

At a press conference hosted by Senate Commerce Committee Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Federal Trade Commission Chairman Jon Leibowitz will announce final amendments to the Children's Online Privacy Protection Rule that strengthen kids' privacy protections and give parents greater control over the personal information that websites and online services may collect from children under 13.  (read more)

FTC to Study Data Broker Industry's Collection and Use of Consumer Data

Commission Issues Nine Orders for Information to Analyze Industry's Privacy Practices (read more)

FTC Announces Departure of Consumer Protection Bureau Director David C. Vladeck and Executive Director Eileen Harrington, Appointment of Charles A. Harwood as Acting Director of the Bureau of Consumer Protection and Pat Bak as Acting Executive Director

Federal Trade Commission Chairman Jon Leibowitz today announced that David C. Vladeck, Director of the FTC's Bureau of Consumer Protection, is leaving the agency on December 31 to return to a faculty position at Georgetown University Law Center, and that Charles A. Harwood, who has been a Deputy Director in the Bureau for the past three years, will serve as Acting Director of the Bureau of Consumer Protection. (read more)

At FTC's Request, Court Halts Operation That Allegedly Deceived Consumers with Bogus Debt Relief Services

Defendants Routinely Called Consumers on the Do Not Call Registry, Complaint Alleges (read more)

FTC Shuts Down Another Credit Card Interest Rate Reduction Scheme

Case is Sixth Advance-Fee Telemarketing Complaint Filed in Just Over a Month (read more)

Defendants Allegedly Tricked Consumers Into Buying High-Fee, Risky Investments on Credit

Defendants Allegedly Tricked Consumers Into Buying High-Fee, Risky Investments on Credit (read more)

FTC's Second Kids' App Report Finds Little Progress in Addressing Privacy Concerns Surrounding Mobile Applications for Children

Kids' Data Still Collected, Shared without Parents' Knowledge, Consent (read more)

FTC to Announce Latest Kids' App Report

On Monday, Dec. 10, 2012, the FTC will hold a press call to announce a follow-up report to an earlier FTC staff report on mobile apps for kids. (read more)

FTC Submits Testimony to U.S. Civil Rights Commission on Fair Credit Reporting Act

The Federal Trade Commission submitted written testimony to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights regarding the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and the use of consumer reports in employment. (read more)

The FTC's Gift to You: A Dozen Dynamic Holiday Shopping Tips

Just in time for the holiday shopping season, the Federal Trade Commission has 12 practical tips to help you watch your wallet, shop wisely, and protect your personal information. (read more)

Statement by Federal Trade Commission Chairman Jon Leibowitz on the Sentencing of Phony Sweepstakes Scheme Operator

Federal Trade Commission Chairman Jon Leibowitz issued the following statement regarding the Sentencing of Osman Bah, of Owings Mills, Md., to 108 months in prison for his role in a phony sweepstakes scheme that defrauded thousands of U.S. consumers of more than $10 million. (read more)

FTC to Host Comprehensive Collection of Web Data Workshop Tomorrow

The Federal Trade Commission will host a workshop tomorrow exploring the practices and privacy implications of comprehensive data collection. (read more)

FTC Settlement Puts an End to "History Sniffing" by Online Advertising Network Charged With Deceptively Gathering Data on Consumers

Network Tracked Interest in Sensitive Medical and Financial Issues, Agency Says (read more)

FTC Proposes Modifications to Used Car Rule

Proposed Buyers Guide Sticker Advises Consumers to Seek Vehicle Information History via FTC.gov and Directs Spanish Speakers to a Spanish Version of the Guide (read more)

Settlement with FTC Puts Alleged Marketer of Fraudulent Auto Loan Modifications Out of Business

Agency Charged "Hope for Car Owners" Operation Falsely Promised to Modify Consumers' Loans and Stop Their Cars from Being Repossessed (read more)

FTC Actions Lead to Shutdown of Robocall Operation That Falsely Claimed to Help Consumers Get FTC Consumer Refunds

Case is 100th Brought by the FTC Enforcing Provisions of the Do Not Call Registry  (read more)

At FTC's Request, Federal Court Finds Defendants in Contempt for Continuing to Pitch Bogus Credit Repair Services in Violation of Prior Court Order

Responding to charges by the Federal Trade Commission, a U.S. district court has found a credit repair operation in contempt for violating a previous court order that required the defendants to stop promoting bogus credit repair products and services to consumers.  (read more)

FTC Issues Amended Rule on Identity Theft "Red Flags"

Interim Final Rule Narrows the Circumstances Under Which Creditors Are Covered (read more)

FTC Approves Final Order Settling Charges Against Marketer Brain-Pad, Inc. for Allegedly Deceptive Claims that Its Mouthguards Can Reduce Risk of Concussions

Agency Sends Warning Letters to 18 Other Marketers of Anti-Concussion Products (read more)

FTC Warns Hotel Operators that Price Quotes that Exclude 'Resort Fees' and Other Mandatory Surcharges May Be Deceptive

The Federal Trade Commission has warned 22 hotel operators that their online reservation sites may violate the law by providing a deceptively low estimate of what consumers can expect to pay for their hotel rooms. (read more)

FTC Action Leads to Court Order: Fake 'Yellow Pages' Scammers Must Pay $10.2 Million

Foreign Operation Targeted Small Businesses and Nonprofits in U.S. and Other Countries (read more)

FTC Announces Agenda for Workshop Exploring Practices, Privacy Implications of Comprehensive Collection of Web Data

The Federal Trade Commission announced a preliminary agenda for The Big Picture: Comprehensive Data Collection, a workshop that will explore the practices and privacy implications of comprehensive data collection. (read more)

Statement by FTC Bureau of Consumer Protection Director David Vladeck Regarding Judge's Approval of Google Safari Settlement

Federal Trade Commission Bureau of Consumer Protection Director David Vladeck issued the following statement regarding a federal judge's approval of the FTC proposed order and $22.5 million civil penalty settling charges that Google misrepresented privacy assurances to users of Apple's Safari Internet browser in violation of a previous FTC settlement order. (read more)

FTC Warns Mortgage Advertisers that Their Ads May Violate Federal Law

After reviewing hundreds of mortgage advertisements, the Federal Trade Commission staff has sent letters to 20 companies, warning them that their ads may be deceptive. (read more)

FTC Warns Consumers: Robocalls Touting Expedited FTC Refunds Are Fake

Scammers are using illegal robocalls to impersonate the Federal Trade Commission, and to try to trick consumers into disclosing their bank account information on a non-FTC website, the agency warns. (read more)

FTC and CFPB to Announce Coordinated Effort to Protect Consumers

On Monday, November 19, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) will hold a press call to announce a coordinated effort to protect consumers. (read more)

FTC Issues Performance and Accountability Report for Fiscal Year 2012

The Federal Trade Commission has issued its Fiscal Year (FY) 2012 Performance and Accountability Report. (read more)

FTC Expands Fight Against Deceptive Business Opportunity Schemes

More Than 70 Actions Brought By FTC and Its Law Enforcement Partners (read more)

FTC Announces Expanded Fight to Stop Deceptive Business Opportunity Schemes

More Than 70 Actions Brought By FTC and Its Law Enforcement Partners (read more)

Marketers Behind Fake News Sites Settle FTC Charges of Deceptive Advertising

Affiliate Network to Pay $2 Million for Allegedly Using Deceptive Claims to Sell Acai Berry Weight-Loss Products and Colon Cleansers (read more)

FTC Announces Departure of General Counsel Willard K. Tom, Appointments of David Shonka as Acting General Counsel and Peter Miller as Chief Privacy Officer

Federal Trade Commission Chairman Jon Leibowitz today announced that Willard K. “Will” Tom, the agency's General Counsel, has left the agency to return to the private sector, and that David Shonka, the FTC's Principal Deputy General Counsel, will serve as Acting General Counsel.  (read more)

FTC Announces Agenda for Upcoming Forum on Protecting Consumers Through Cross-Border Codes of Conduct

The Federal Trade Commission announced the agenda for its November 29 forum exploring the use of enforceable industry codes of conduct to protect consumers in cross-border commerce. (read more)

FTC Begins Refund Process for Consumers Harmed by Mortgage Foreclosure 'Rescue' Scheme

To help Spanish-speaking consumers recover money lost to a scam that promised to stop foreclosure or obtain mortgage loan modifications, the Federal Trade Commission mailed claim forms this week, that must be submitted no later than January 14, 2013. (read more)

Companies that Own and Manage Payday Lending and Check Cashing Stores to Settle FTC Charges That They Tossed Sensitive Consumer Data into Trash Dumpsters

Will Pay $101,500 Civil Penalty (read more)

FTC Leads Joint Law Enforcement Effort Against Companies That Allegedly Made Deceptive "Cardholder Services" Robocalls

Agency Gets Court Orders Disconnecting Five of Them (read more)

FTC Tells Consumers They May Be Due a Refund If They Purchased Walgreens' "Wal-Born" Cold and Flu Supplements

If you purchased "Wal-Born" - a Walgreens' brand dietary supplement, the Federal Trade Commission wants you to know that you may be eligible for a refund. (read more)

FTC to Announce More Cases Against Deceptive "Robocallers"

Actions Continue Agency's Work to Protect Consumers From Unwanted Telemarketing Calls (read more)

FTC Finalizes Settlements with Businesses that Exposed Consumers Sensitive Information by Installing Peer-to-Peer File-Sharing Software on Corporate Computer Systems

Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission has accepted as final settlements with two operations it charged with illegally exposing the sensitive personal information of thousands of consumers by allowing peer-to-peer file-sharing software to be installed on their corporate computer systems. (read more)

Sherwin-Williams and PPG Settle FTC Charges That They Misled Consumers to Believe Their Paints Were Free of Potentially Harmful Volatile Organic Compounds

Two of the nation's leading paint companies, The Sherwin-Williams Company and PPG Architectural Finishes, Inc.,have agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that they misled consumers to believe that some of their paints are free of potentially harmful chemicals known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs). (read more)

FTC Videos Remind Consumers to Check AnnualCreditReport.com

As consumers turn back their clocks, it's a good time to check their free annual credit report (read more)

U.S. Defendants Who Allegedly Abetted Fake Debt Collector Calls from India Agree to Settle FTC Charges

Callers Often Posed as Law Enforcement Authorities; Defendants will Be Permanently Barred from Debt Collection, Surrender Ill-Gotten Gains (read more)

Tracking Software Company Settles FTC Charges That it Deceived Consumers and Failed to Safeguard Sensitive Data it Collected

A web analytics company has agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that it violated federal law by using its web-tracking software that collected personal data without disclosing the extent of the information that it was collecting. (read more)

FTC Recommends Best Practices for Companies That Use Facial Recognition Technologies

Companies Using the Technologies Should Design Services with Consumer Privacy in Mind (read more)

Court Orders Fake News Site Operator to Surrender Assets Totaling More than $2 Million

Defendants Settle FTC Charges that They Made Fake Endorsements and Deceptive Acai Berry Weight Loss Claims (read more)

FTC Challenges Innovators to Do Battle with Robocallers

Agency Offers $50,000 for Best Technical Solution as Part of Ongoing Fight Against Illegal Calls (read more)

FTC Announces Forum on Protecting Consumers Through Cross-Border Codes of Conduct

The Federal Trade Commission will host a forum on Thursday, November 29, 2012, on using enforceable industry codes of conduct to protect consumers in cross-border commerce.  (read more)

Federal Trade Commission to Host Robocall Summit Tomorrow

Event Will Be Held at FTC Conference Center in Washington, DC (read more)

Promoters of Phony Debt Reduction Schemes Settle FTC Charges

Ads on 17 Websites Featured Misleading Claims, False Ties to Government Assistance Programs, and Phony Testimonials, FTC Alleges (read more)

FTC Issues FY 2012 National Do Not Call Registry Data Book

More Than 217 Million Phone Numbers on Do Not Call List (read more)

FTC to Host Workshop to Explore Practices and Privacy Implications of Comprehensive Collection of Internet Users' Data

The Federal Trade Commission will host a workshop on December 6, 2012, to explore the practices and privacy implications of comprehensive collection of data about consumers' online activities. (read more)

FTC Staff Sends Warning Letters to Online Marketers Claiming to Offer Legitimate Substitutes for International Driving Permits

Only AAA and AATA Can Issue International Driving Permits to Lawful Holders of U.S. Driver's Licenses, Agency Says (read more)

FTC Settlement Bans Marketer from Timeshare Business, Telemarketing

Court Found Company Deceived Timeshare Owners (read more)

FTC Acts to Halt Medical Plan Scheme that Targeted Vulnerable Consumers

IAB Scheme Allegedly Bilked Millions of Dollars from Consumers Seeking Health Insurance (read more)

FTC Settlements Require Equifax to Forfeit Money Made by Allegedly Improperly Selling Information about Millions of Consumers Who Were Late on Their Mortgages

In Separate Actions, Equifax and Its Customers Will Pay a Total of $1.6 Million (read more)

FTC Cracks Down on Phony Mortgage Relief Schemes

Victimizing Thousands of Consumers, Marketers Allegedly Falsely Claimed They Could Help, But Instead Drove Distressed Homeowners Deeper into Debt (read more)

FTC Announces Agenda for Robocall Summit on October 18, 2012

Event Will Be Held at FTC Conference Center in Washington, DC (read more)

Operator of Celebrity Fan Websites to Pay $1 Million to Settle FTC Charges that It Illegally Collected Children's Information Without Their Parents' Consent

Artist Arena Ran Sites For Justin Bieber, Rihanna, Demi Lovato and Selena Gomez (read more)

FTC Announces Agenda for Robocall Summit on October 18, 2012

Event Will Be Held at FTC Conference Center in Washington, DC (read more)

FTC Halts Massive Tech Support Scams

Tens of Thousands of Consumers Allegedly Tricked Into Paying for Removal of Bogus Viruses and Non-Existent Spyware, and Allowing Scammers to Remotely Access their Computers (read more)

FTC to Host Press Conference

The Federal Trade Commission will host a press conference Wednesday, October 3, 2012, to announce a law enforcement crackdown on a massive international computer tech support scam that allegedly swindled tens of thousands of consumers in six countries. (read more)

FTC Case Results in $163 Million Judgment Against "Scareware" Marketer

At the Federal Trade Commission's request, a federal court imposed a judgment of more than $163 million on the final defendant in the FTC's case against an operation that used computer "scareware" to trick consumers into thinking their computers were infected with malicious software, and then sold them software to "fix" their non-existent problem.  (read more)

FTC Staff Submits Comment to CFPB on Mortgage Disclosure Forms

The Federal Trade Commission's staff submitted a comment to the U.S. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau on disclosure forms designed to help consumers understand the features, costs, and risks of home mortgage loans. (read more)

FTC to Host Pet Meds Workshop Tomorrow

Event Will Be Held at FTC Conference Center in Washington, DC (read more)

FTC Issues Revised "Green Guides"

Will Help Marketers Avoid Making Misleading Environmental Claims (read more)

Federal Trade Commission to Hold Phone-in Media Briefing on Final Changes to the Agency's Green Marketing Guides

Guides Help Firms Ensure Their Environmental Claims Are Truthful and Substantiated (read more)

FTC Returns Just Over $11,000 to Consumers Who Were Allegedly Charged an Illegal Advance Fee for a Credit Repair Product

The Federal Trade Commission is mailing 831 checks for $13.70 each to consumers who allegedly were charged an illegal advance fee for a CD-ROM with information about credit reporting and instructions that supposedly taught consumers how to repair their credit. (read more)

FTC Sends Refunds to Victims of "Free" Goods and Services Telemarketing Scheme

More Than 138,000 Checks Being Mailed This Week to Consumers (read more)

FTC Halts Computer Spying

Secretly Installed Software on Rented Computers Collected Information, Took Pictures of Consumers in Their Homes, Tracked Consumers' Locations (read more)

FTC Releases Reports on Cigarette and Smokeless Tobacco Advertising and Promotion

Amount Spent Declines for Cigarettes, Smokeless Tobacco in 2009 and 2010 (read more)

Bogus 'Platinum Credit Card' Sellers Will Pay $7.5 Million to Settle FTC Charges

Banned from Telemarketing, Credit Card Marketing (read more)

FTC Finalizes Procedure Changes to Streamline Agency Investigative Processes and Keep Pace With Technology

The Federal Trade Commission today issued final changes to agency procedure that will streamline the FTC's investigatory process, make updates to keep pace with electronic evidence discovery, and provide more detail on how the agency evaluates allegations of misconduct by attorneys practicing before the Commission. (read more)

Chicago Funeral Home Agrees to Settle FTC Charges for Funeral Rule Violations

Charged with Failing to Show Itemized Price Lists to Consumers (read more)

FTC Action Halts Debt Relief Marketing Operation

Allegedly Made Illegal Robocalls, Debited Consumers' Bank Accounts Without Their Consent; FTC Hosts Summit on Stopping Illegal Robocalls on October 18 (read more)

Two Online Placement Services for Senior Care Centers Settle FTC Charges

Allegedly Did Not Check Out Long-Term Care Facilities As Claimed (read more)

FTC Tells House Panel that Enforcing the Fair Credit Reporting Act Remains a Priority of the Agency

Says Accuracy of Data is Essential to an Effective Consumer Reporting System (read more)

FTC Charges Second "Affiliate Network" of Internet Advertisers with Deceiving Consumers by Using Fake News Sites to Market Acai Berry Weight-Loss Products and Colon Cleansers

Defendants will Pay $1 Million to Settle Charges (read more)

FTC Finalizes Privacy Settlement with Myspace

Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission has approved a final order settling FTC charges that Myspace misrepresented its protection of users' personal information (read more)

FTC Returns More than $2 Million to Buyers of the "Google Money Tree" Work-at-Home Scam

Defendants Charged Hidden Fees and Falsely Claimed Affiliation with Google Inc., FTC Alleged (read more)

FTC Takes Action Against Companies Marketing Allegedly Unproven Natural Bed Bug and Head Lice Treatments

Cedar, Cinnamon, Lemon Grass, Peppermint, and Clove Oil? There's No Proof They Will Eradicate Bed Bugs, Agency Says (read more)

Subsidiary of Diet Plan Marketer Medifast Inc. to Pay $3.7 Million to Settle FTC Charges

Unsupported Weight-Loss Claims Violated Previous Order, Agency Alleges (read more)

FTC Proposes Changes to its Fur Labeling Rules

The Federal Trade Commission is seeking public comment on changes the agency is proposing that would eliminate unnecessary requirements on companies that sell fur products to give them more flexibility on labeling, and update the Fur Products Name Guide that lists common animal names allowed on fur labels. (read more)

FTC Publishes Guide to Help Mobile App Developers Observe Truth-in-Advertising, Privacy Principles

The Federal Trade Commission has published a guide to help mobile application developers observe truth-in-advertising and basic privacy principles when marketing new mobile apps. (read more)

FTC Sends Refunds to Victims of Robocall Credit Card Interest Rate Reduction Scheme

4,468 Checks Being Mailed This Week on Behalf of FTC to Consumers Nationwide; Calls Included Those from "Heather from Card Services" (read more)

FTC to Return Money to Victims of Allegedly Deceptive Drug Price Claims by CVS Caremark

The FTC will provide refunds to nearly 13,000 consumers who paid significantly more for their drugs than they expected based on allegedly deceptive pricing claims made by CVS Caremark. (read more)

FTC Warns Replacement Window Marketers to Review Marketing Materials; Energy Savings Claims Must Be Backed by Scientific Evidence

The Federal Trade Commission warned 14 window manufacturers and one window glass manufacturer that they may be making unsupported energy savings claims for replacement windows. (read more)

Ads Touting "Your Baby Can Read" Were Deceptive, FTC Complaint Alleges

Two of Three Defendants Settle Charges for Claims Made about Children's Learning Program; Order Bans Use of Product Name (read more)

FTC Refunds $6 Million to Consumers Who Bought Deceptively Advertised Supplements that Were Supposed to Cause Weight Loss and Treat Erectile Dysfunction

The Federal Trade Commission is mailing 153,109 checks for $40.45 each to consumers who were deceived by supplement marketer National Urological Group. A federal district court ruled in favor of the FTC in 2008, ordering the defendants to provide money for refunds. (read more)

FTC Extends Deadline to Comment on Proposed Modifications to the Children's Online Privacy Protection Rule Until September 24, 2012

The FTC will extend until September 24, 2012, the deadline for commenting on additional proposed modifications to the Children's Online Privacy Protection Rule, which gives parents control over what information websites and online services may collect from children under 12.   (read more)

California Man Previously Sued by FTC Is Indicted on Criminal Charges for Phony Debt Collection Scam

A federal grand jury has charged a Tracy, California-based man with 21 criminal counts of wire fraud and mail fraud for a fake debt collection scheme.  (read more)

FTC Sends Refunds to Consumers Harmed by Scheme Charged with Falsely Promising Federal Jobs

Consumers Should Read the FTC's Federal and Postal Job Scams: Tip-offs to Rip-offs (read more)

At FTC's Request, U.S. Court Hands Down Record $478 Million Judgment Against Marketers of Massive Get-Rich-Quick Infomercial Scams

At the request of the Federal Trade Commission, a U.S. district court ordered the marketers of three get-rich-quick systems, including "John Beck's Free and Clear Real Estate System," to pay a record $478 million for deceiving close to one million consumers with phony claims that they could make easy money using their programs. (read more)

Consumers Asked DISH Network to Leave Them Alone, But FTC Says Calls Kept Coming

Agency Sues Satellite TV Provider, Alleging it Called Millions of Consumers Who Had Asked Not to be Called Again (read more)

FTC to Host Telephone Press Conference to Respond to Questions About the FTC's Settlement with the Marketers of Ab Circle Pro

Settlement will provide up to $25 million for consumer refunds (read more)

Marketers of 'Ab Circle Pro' Device to Pay as Much as $25 Million in Refunds to Settle FTC Charges

Just Three Minutes a Day Won't Make You Thin, FTC Complaint Alleges (read more)

FTC Updates Telemarketer Fees for the Do Not Call Registry as of October 1, 2012

The Federal Trade Commission has announced updated fees starting on October 1, 2012, for telemarketers accessing phone numbers on the National Do Not Call Registry. (read more)

FTC Files Amicus Brief in Federal District Court Opposing Pending Settlement of Class Action Cramming Case Moore v. Verizon Communications, Inc.

The Federal Trade Commission filed an amicus brief in the phone bill cramming case Moore v. Verizon Communications, Inc. (No. 2 CV 09-1823 SBA) before the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, opposing a proposed class action settlement of the case because it is not fair, adequate, and reasonable. (read more)

FTC Joins Amicus Brief Opposing Federal Court Finding On Consumers' Rights Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act

The Federal Trade Commission, the Department of Justice, and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau filed a joint amicus brief in the U.S. Supreme Court supporting consumers' ability to protect their rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act by suing debt collectors. (read more)

Settlement with FTC Prohibits Marketer Brain-Pad, Inc. from Claiming that Its Mouthguards Can Reduce Risk of Concussions

FTC Alleges Claims Are Not Backed by Adequate Scientific Evidence (read more)

FTC Extends Deadline for Public Input on Jewelry Industry Marketing Guides

Do you have something to say about jewelry and how it's marketed? If so, the Federal Trade Commission wants to hear from you, and is extending the deadline for filing public comments on the agency's Jewelry Guides. (read more)

FTC Tells Consumers They May Be Due a Refund If They Purchased Disney- or Marvel Hero-themed Children's Vitamins

Have you purchased Disney- or Marvel Hero-themed vitamins for your kids during the last few years – vitamins that featured characters such as the Disney Princesses, Winnie the Pooh, Finding Nemo, and Spider-Man? (read more)

FTC Approves Final Settlement With Facebook

Facebook Must Obtain Consumers' Consent Before Sharing Their Information Beyond Established Privacy Settings (read more)

FTC Sends Refunds to Consumers Lured by Money-Making Scam

The Federal Trade Commission is mailing 9,282 refund checks to consumers who were deceived by false promises that they could earn substantial income if they bought and followed the "Stefanchik Program" to buy and sell privately held promissory notes and mortgages. (read more)

FTC Sends Refunds to Consumers Allegedly Deceived by First Universal Lending Mortgage Loan Modification Scheme

More than $723,000 being returned to consumers (read more)

Google Will Pay $22.5 Million to Settle FTC Charges it Misrepresented Privacy Assurances to Users of Apple's Safari Internet Browser

Privacy Settlement is the Largest FTC Penalty Ever for Violation of a Commission Order (read more)

FTC to Host Telephone Press Conference to Respond to Questions About the FTC's $22.5 million Settlement with Google

Agency also to host social chats to discuss the settlement with public (read more)

Employment Background Screening Company to Pay $2.6 Million Penalty for Multiple Violations of the Fair Credit Reporting Act

FTC Charges HireRight Solutions Incorrectly Listed Criminal Convictions on Reports of Some Consumers (read more)

Refunds Stemming From Reebok's Settlement With FTC Mailed to Consumers Who Bought EasyTone and RunTone Shoes and EasyTone Apparel

Company Paid $25 Million for Refunds to Settle FTC Charges of Deceptive Advertising (read more)

FTC Seeks Comments on Additional Proposed Revisions to Children's Online Privacy Protection Rule

The Federal Trade Commission is publishing a Federal Register Notice seeking public comments on additional proposed modifications to the Children's Online Privacy Protection Rule. (read more)

FTC Action Halts Dominican Mortgage Assistance Scam That Allegedly Defrauded Spanish-Speaking U.S. Homeowners of more than $2 Million

Court Issues Restraining Order against Telemarketers Who Falsely Claimed Affiliation with Federal Mortgage Assistance Programs (read more)

FTC Staff Comment to CFPB Supports Protection of Consumers Who Use General Purpose Reloadable Cards

In a comment submitted to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), staff of the Federal Trade Commission expressed support for protecting users of general purpose reloadable (GPR) cards and for the CFPB's proposal to solicit information about the costs and benefits of extending additional protections to these cards. (read more)

FTC Alerts Consumers Who Want to Help Colorado Movie Theater Shooting Victims

The Federal Trade Commission, the nation's consumer protection agency, has tips for anyone who may want to donate money to the victims and families of the Aurora, Colorado, movie theater shooting. (read more)

FTC Action Results in Contempt Order Against Online Check Writing Marketers

Defendants Must Pay $100,000 and Up To $15,000 Per Day for Noncompliance (read more)

FTC Becomes First Enforcement Authority in APEC Cross-Border Privacy Rules System

The Federal Trade Commission welcomed the approval of the United States' participation in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Cross-Border Privacy Rules system, which was announced by the U.S. Department of Commerce today. (read more)

FTC Calls Wireless Phone Bill Cramming a Significant Consumer Problem

In Comment to FCC, Agency Says Wireless Customers Should Be Given the Option to Block All Third-Party Charges (read more)

DC Funeral Home Agrees to Pay $25,000 for Funeral Rule Violations

Charged with Failing to Show Casket Price Lists to Consumers (read more)

FTC and Florida Attorney General Win Court Judgment of More Than $700,000 in Bogus Alcoholism Cure Scheme

Sellers of "Cure" Threatened to Disclose Consumers' Alcohol Dependence (read more)

FTC and Florida Attorney General Sue Timeshare Rental/Resale Operation for Deception

Allegedly Told Timeshare Owners They Had Renters or Buyers Lined Up for Their Properties (read more)

FTC Testifies on Commercial Uses of Facial Recognition Technologies

Agency Will Recommend Best Practices to Safeguard Privacy, Security (read more)

FTC Staff: Labeling Company's Textile Products as 'Flax' Would Comply with Agency Textile Rules

Federal Trade Commission staff, in response to a request by a law firm representing the textile company Naturally Advanced Technologies US Inc., stated that using the generic term "flax" for textile products made from the company's CRAiLAR® flax fibers and yarns would comply with the FTC's Textile Rules. (read more)

FTC Offers Consumers Tips on How to Respond to Unwanted Robocalls

Agency Announces Robocall Summit to be Held October 18 in Washington, DC (read more)

FTC Halts Deceptive Prepaid Calling Card Scheme Targeting Immigrants

Cards Tested by the Agency Delivered Only 40 Percent of the Minutes They Advertised (read more)

FTC Halts Two Operations That Deceived Consumers Looking for Help with Their Debts

One Operator Allegedly Impersonated Federal Agencies; Settlements Ban Both from the Debt Relief Business (read more)

FTC Wins $2.6 Million Court Judgment Against Operation That Made Exaggerated Claims for Mortgage and Foreclosure-Relief Services

Defendants Charged Consumers $2,000 Each for Services They Did Not Perform (read more)

FTC Reminds Job Seekers: Get Your Free Credit Report Before You Apply for a Job

Before you apply for a job, you should know what's in your credit report, because employers may look at your credit history if they're considering hiring you. (read more)

FTC Alert: Federal Government Not Offering "Free" Money to Pay Your Bills

Have you heard the federal government will pay your bills? Don't be fooled; it's a scam. (read more)

FTC Offers Video Game Primer to Help Parents

If your kids play video games, the Federal Trade Commission, the nation's consumer protection agency, wants you to know there are resources to help you learn about the games and put limits on what your kids can access. (read more)

FTC Returns $2.9 Million to Consumer Victims in DVD Vending Scam

The Federal Trade Commission is mailing 454 refund checks totaling more than $2.9 million to consumers who were victimized by a scam that promoted video rental machines as a business opportunity. (read more)

FTC Files Complaint Against Wyndham Hotels For Failure to Protect Consumers' Personal Information

Credit Card Data of Hundreds of Thousands of Consumers Compromised, Millions of Dollars Lost to Fraud (read more)

Operators of "Debt Advocacy" Firm Settle with FTC, Must Pay More than $750,000

FTC Alleged that They Deceptively Marketed Mortgage Modifications and "Forensic Audits", Settlements Ban Them from Mortgage Relief Business (read more)

FTC Suit Halts Bogus Health Insurance Scam

The Federal Trade Commission has halted a telemarketing scam that allegedly tricked consumers who were seeking affordable health insurance into buying worthless medical discount plans. (read more)

FTC Action Halts Alleged "Forensic Audit" Scam that Targeted Consumers in Danger of Losing Their Homes

Forensic Mortgage Loan Audit Scams: A New Twist on Foreclosure Rescue Fraud (read more)

Spokeo to Pay $800,000 to Settle FTC Charges Company Allegedly Marketed Information to Employers and Recruiters in Violation of FCRA

Spokeo, Inc., a data broker that compiles and sells detailed information profiles on millions of consumers, will pay $800,000 to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that it marketed the profiles to companies in the human resources, background screening, and recruiting industries without taking steps to protect consumers required under the Fair Credit Reporting Act. (read more)

Court Halts Credit Repair Scammers in Response to FTC Contempt Charges

Hargrave Operation Falsely Claimed it Could Repair Anyone's Credit for $250 (read more)

FTC Charges Businesses Exposed Sensitive Information on Peer-to-Peer File-Sharing Networks, Putting Thousands of Consumers at Risk

Settlements Require Companies to Establish Comprehensive Information Security Programs (read more)

Debt Relief Operation Settles with FTC for Allegedly Deceiving Consumers by Using Bogus and Unsupported Claims

FDN Solutions, LLC Web Advertisements Claimed Company Could Reduce Debt by 40 to 60 % (read more)

FTC Announces Final Agenda and Panelists for Workshop about Advertising and Privacy Disclosures in Online and Mobile Media

The Federal Trade Commission will host a one-day public workshop on Wednesday, May 30, 2012 to consider the need for new guidance concerning advertising and privacy disclosures in today's online and mobile environments. (read more)

Administrative Law Judge Upholds FTC's Complaint that POM Deceptively Advertised Its Products as Treating, Preventing, or Reducing the Risk of Heart Disease, Prostate Cancer, and Erectile Dysfunction

ALJ Ruling: Some Health Claims for Pomegranate Products Were False and Not Supported by Scientific Evidence (read more)

Consumers Who Bought Two Oreck Products Will Receive FTC Refunds

Company Made Unfounded Claims that Vacuum Cleaner and Air Filters Could Prevent Illness, FTC Alleged (read more)

FTC Announces Final Agenda and Panelists for Workshop about Advertising and Privacy Disclosures in Online and Mobile Media

The Federal Trade Commission will host a one-day public workshop on Wednesday, May 30, 2012 to consider the need for new guidance concerning advertising and privacy disclosures in today's online and mobile environments. (read more)

FTC Approves Final Orders Settling Charges that Window Marketers Made Deceptive Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings Claims

Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission has approved final orders settling charges that five companies that make and sell replacement windows made deceptive energy efficiency and cost savings claims. (read more)

Skechers Will Pay $40 Million to Settle FTC Charges That It Deceived Consumers with Ads for "Toning Shoes"

Consumers Who Bought Shape-ups, Other Toning Shoes Will Be Eligible for Refunds (read more)

Debt Collectors Settle with FTC, Agree to Stop Deceiving and Abusing Consumers

Consumers Were Subjected to Collection Efforts for Magazine Subscription Debts They Did Not Owe, FTC Alleges (read more)

FTC Approves Final Settlement with CVS Caremark

Following a public comment period, the FTC has accepted as final an order with CVS Caremark settling charges that it misrepresented the prices of certain Medicare Part D prescription drugs, including drugs used to treat breast cancer symptoms and epilepsy, at CVS and Walgreens pharmacies. (read more)

FTC Announces Action Against Major Marketer of Consumer Goods

Alleges Overhyped Advertising Claims; Consumers to Receive Millions in Refunds in Settlement (read more)

FTC To Host Workshop on Drip Pricing

The Federal Trade Commission will host a workshop on May 21 on drip pricing, a pricing technique in which firms advertise only part of a product's price up-front, and then reveal additional charges later as the consumer goes through the buying process. (read more)

FTC Approves Final Order Settling Charges that Star Pipe Products, Ltd. Acted Anticompetitively in Market for Municipal Water System Iron Pipe Fittings; FTC Approves Final Orders Settling Charges that Auto Dealers Falsely Promised to Pay Off Consumers' Trade-ins, No Matter What They Owed

Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission has approved a final order settling charges that Star Pipe Products, Ltd. engaged in illegal anticompetitive practices to protect its share of the market for ductile iron pipe fittings used in municipal water systems nationwide. Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission has approved final orders settling charges that five automobile dealers made deceptive claims that they would pay off the remaining balance on consumers' trade-ins, no matter what they owed. (read more)

FTC Sues Funeral Home for Continuing Failure to Disclose Prices

New York Funeral Home Previously Cited for Price List Violations in 2001 (read more)

FTC Testifies on Efforts to Protect Consumer Privacy

Asks Congress to Encourage Industry to Continue Efforts on "Do Not Track" Tools (read more)

FTC Joins Department of Justice and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau in Filing Brief Supporting the Constitutionality of the Fair Credit Reporting Act

The Federal Trade Commission has joined the Department of Justice and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau in filing a memorandum brief in support of the constitutionality of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), the 1970 law that is designed to protect the privacy of credit report information and ensure that the information supplied by consumer reporting agencies (CRAs) is as accurate as possible. (read more)

Myspace Settles FTC Charges That It Misled Millions of Users About Sharing Personal Information with Advertisers

Settlement Will Require Regular Privacy Assessments for the Next 20 Years (read more)

FTC Seeks Return of $52 Million Worth of Bogus Phone Bill Cramming Charges; Agency Charges Nation's Largest Third-Party Billing Company with Contempt

The Federal Trade Commission is seeking a civil contempt ruling against the nation's largest third-party billing company, alleging that it placed more than $70 million in bogus "cramming" charges on consumers' phone bills in violation of a previous court order. (read more)

New York City Funeral Home Settles FTC Charges it Failed to Disclose Casket Prices

Agency Charges Blair-Mazzarella Home With Funeral Rule Violations (read more)

FTC Announces Preliminary Agenda for Workshop about Advertising Disclosures in Online and Mobile Media

The Federal Trade Commission will host a one-day public workshop on Wednesday, May 30, 2012 to consider the need for new guidance for online advertisers about making disclosures.  (read more)

FTC Wins Court Judgment Against Massive Get-Rich-Quick Infomercial Scam

Agency Alleges that Nearly One Million Consumers Lost More Than $450 Million (read more)

FTC Seeks Public Input on How Identity Theft Impacts Senior Citizens

The staff of the Federal Trade Commission is seeking information from the public on how identity theft impacts senior citizens, which the agency will use to inform its law enforcement agenda, policy initiatives and consumer education efforts. (read more)

FTC Conducts Undercover Inspections of Funeral Homes in Nine States to Press Funeral Homes to Comply with Consumer Protection Law

FTC's Funeral Rule Requires Funeral Homes to Provide Price Lists to Consumers (read more)

FTC Action Halts Alleged Scam That Dangled the False Promise of 'Free Gas for Life' Then Charged Consumers for Unwanted E-Magazine Subscriptions

'Green Millionaire Book' Promoters Settle FTC Charges; Will Pay Almost $2 Million for Consumer Refunds (read more)

FTC Announces Agenda, Panelists for Mobile Payments Workshop

Consumer advocates, industry representatives, government regulators, technologists, and academics will take part in the upcoming workshop, "Paper, Plastic . . . or Mobile? (read more)

FTC Orders Alcoholic Beverage Manufacturers to Provide Data for Agency's Fourth Major Study on Alcohol Advertising

Study Focuses on Industry Self-Regulatory Efforts to Reduce Ads, Marketing to Underage Audiences (read more)

Court Halts Alleged Fake Debt Collector Calls from India, Grants FTC Request to Stop Defendants Who Posed as Law Enforcers

California-based Defendant Ran Phantom Debt Collection Scheme from His Home, FTC Alleges (read more)

FTC Action Leads to Court Order Banning Final "U.S. Homeowners Relief" Defendants from Debt and Mortgage Relief Business

At the request of the Federal Trade Commission, a federal court has imposed a court order with a $3.89 million judgment against defendant Samuel Paul Bain and three of his companies for their role in an allegedly fraudulent mortgage modification and foreclosure relief scheme. (read more)

April is Financial Literacy Month

A Great Time to Share Free Resources from the FTC (read more)

FTC Action Results in Ban Against Couple from Telemarketing, Timeshare Resale Services

The Federal Trade Commission put the telemarketing and timeshare businesses off-limits to a south Florida couple who allegedly operated a deceptive telemarketing scheme that victimized property owners hoping to sell their timeshares. (read more)

FTC Charges that Auto Loan Schemes Falsely Promised They Could Stop Consumers' Cars from Being Repossessed

"Hope for Car Owners" and "Auto Debt Consulting" Took Fees, But Failed to Modify Loans (read more)

FTC Approves Final Order Settling Charges With Upromise

Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission has approved a final order settling charges that Upromise, Inc., a membership reward service aimed at consumers trying to save money for college used a web-browser toolbar to collect consumers' personal information without adequately disclosing the extent of the information it was collecting. (read more)

FTC Charges Payday Lending Scheme with Piling Inflated Fees on Borrowers and Making Unlawful Threats when Collecting

Defendants Charged Many Consumers More than Three Times the Amount Borrowed (read more)

FTC Case Against Deceptive Robocallers Leads to Record $30 Million in Civil Penalties

Cash Grant Institute Called Consumers on the Do Not Call Registry, Promised Cash Grants That Didn't Exist (read more)

FTC Chairman Jon Leibowitz Confirmed for Second Term as Commissioner Maureen Ohlhausen Confirmed as new FTC Commissioner

Federal Trade Commission Chairman Jon Leibowitz and Maureen K. Ohlhausen were confirmed by the U.S. Senate on Thursday to serve as Commissioners of the FTC. (read more)

FTC Chairman Releases 2012 Annual Highlights

Federal Trade Commission Chairman Jon Leibowitz released the agency's 2012 Annual Highlights today at the spring meeting of the American Bar Association's Section of Antitrust Law in Washington, DC, recognizing the agency's continued efforts to protect consumers and promote competition. (read more)

FTC Testifies on New Framework for Protecting Consumer Privacy

Agency Tells Congress It Continues to Support Implementation of "Do Not Track" Tools (read more)

FTC Charges That Security Flaws in RockYou Game Site Exposed 32 Million Email Addresses and Passwords

Settlement Order Requires Company to Implement Comprehensive Data Security Program (read more)

FTC Issues Final Commission Report on Protecting Consumer Privacy

Agency Calls on Companies to Adopt Best Privacy Practices (read more)

FTC To Host Press Conference on Release of Final Privacy Framework Report

Agency also to host social chats to discuss the report with public (read more)

FTC Legal Action Halts Alleged Mortgage Relief Scammers Who Lured Homeowners with Bogus Claims

Defendants Falsely Promised They Could Help Desperate Consumers Who Joined Group Lawsuits Against Their Lenders (read more)

FTC Permanently Stops Two More Operations Charged with Using Fake News Sites to Deceive Consumers about Acai Berry Products, Defendants will Pay Nearly $1.5 Million to Settle Charges

FTC Resolves first Action against "Affiliate Network" of Internet Advertisers (read more)

FTC Highlights Expanded Work on Debt Collection Issues over the Past Year

The FTC Enforces the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act and Promotes Related Education, Research, and Policy Development Initiatives (read more)

As a Result of FTC Action, Two Defendants in Abusive Debt Collection Case Are Banned from the Industry, Will Surrender Assets

Operation Deceived Clients and Harassed Consumers, FTC Alleged (read more)

FTC Action Leads to Court Order Shutting Down Pyramid Scam Thousands of Consumers Burned by BurnLounge

At the request of the Federal Trade Commission, a U.S. district court judge has ordered the operators and top promoters of a deceptive pyramid scheme to pay a total of $17 million to refund consumers who were burned by the scam. (read more)

FTC Takes Action To Stop Deceptive Car Dealership Ads

FTC Alleges Dealers Falsely Promised To Pay Off Trade-ins, No Matter What Consumers Owed (read more)

FTC Issues Report on the Experiences of Victims Recovering from Identity Theft

The Federal Trade Commission issued a staff report summarizing the results of a survey of identity theft victims who were asked to describe their experiences dealing with consumer reporting agencies and, more generally, exercising their rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) as amended by the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act (FACTA), to recover from identity theft. (read more)

FTC Stops Scheme That Falsely Promised Federal Jobs

Defendants Allegedly Sold Job Seekers Exam Prep Services for Non-Existent Vacancies (read more)

FTC Charges That Payday Lender Illegally Sued Debt-Burdened Consumers in South Dakota Tribal Court Without Jurisdiction

Agency Expands Its Case Against Payday Financial, LLC (read more)

FTC Testimony Outlines Agency's Work to Protect Consumers, Promote Competition

In testimony before the U.S. House Appropriations Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government, the Federal Trade Commission summarized the agency's FY 2013 budget request and described its ongoing work to promote competition and protect American consumers. (read more)

FTC Warns Consumers: Charity and Home Repair Scams May Appear After a Disaster

In the wake of a late-winter tornado outbreak that pounded seven states, the Federal Trade Commission reminds consumers that scams often follow disasters. (read more)

FTC Will Host Public Workshop to Explore Advertising Disclosures in Online and Mobile Media on May 30, 2012

The Federal Trade Commission will host a day-long public workshop to consider the need for new guidance for online advertisers about making disclosures required under FTC law. (read more)

FTC Action Leads to Court Orders Banning Marketers from Selling Vacation Packages

Nationwide Vacation Prize Scheme Targeted Spanish-Speaking Consumers (read more)

FTC Releases Top Complaint Categories for 2011

Identity Theft Once Again Tops the List (read more)

International Enforcement Network Meets to Address Cross-Border Consumer Fraud

Speakers Include Costa Rica President Laura Chinchilla and FTC Commissioner Edith Ramirez (read more)

FTC Takes Action to Stop Massive Robocalling Operations

Defendants Allegedly Made Hundreds of Millions of Illegal Prerecorded Calls to Numbers on the National Do Not Call Registry (read more)

FTC Approves Safe Harbor Program for Aristotle International, Inc.

Program Will Promote Compliance With Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (read more)

FTC Halts Deceptive Practices of Marketer Who Collected $359 Million Using Bogus 'Free' Trial Offers

Settlements Ban Defendants From Using 'Negative-Option' Marketing (read more)

Window Marketers Settle FTC Charges That They Made Deceptive Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings Claims

Companies Must Have Scientific Evidence Before Making Marketing Claims (read more)

FTC Action Leads to Contempt Ruling Against Marketers Who Tried to Take Advantage of Financially Strapped Consumers

Promoters Falsely Claimed That "Almost Everybody" Can Legally Receive Food Stamps (read more)

FTC To Host Phone Availability on Law Enforcement Actions Targeting Deceptive Claims by Window Manufacturers and Sellers

Energy-Efficiency, Consumer Savings Claims Allegedly Overstated (read more)

Court Halts Alleged Fake Debt Collector Calls from India, Grants FTC Request to Stop Defendants Who Often Posed as Law Enforcement

At the request of the Federal Trade Commission, a U.S. district court has halted an operation that the FTC alleges collected phantom payday loan "debts" that consumers did not owe. (read more)

FTC Cracks Down on Fake Debt Collector

Agency Alleges Operator Attempted to Collect on Phantom Debts - Victim Will Describe Her Experiences (read more)

FTC Report Raises Privacy Questions About Mobile Applications for Children

Says Mobile Apps Offer Opportunities But Lack Information on Data Being Collected (read more)

FTC Action Leads to Ban on Alleged Mortgage Relief Scammers Who Harmed Thousands of Consumers

Defendant Ordered to Surrender Yacht, Cadillac, and Rolex (read more)

FTC Submits Fiscal Year 2013 Budget Request and Performance Plans to Congress

The Federal Trade Commission submitted its Fiscal Year 2013 budget request to Congress, including the FY 2013 Budget Overview Statement, and FY 2012 and FY 2013 Performance Plans required under the Government Performance and Results and Modernization Act of 2010. (read more)

FTC Issues Annual Financial Acts Enforcement Report to Federal Reserve

The Federal Trade Commission has issued its annual report to the Federal Reserve Board on FTC enforcement and related activities regarding the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA), Electronic Fund Transfer Act (EFTA), Consumer Leasing Act (CLA), and Truth in Lending Act (TILA). (read more)

Bank of America Subsidiary Reversing or Refunding $36 Million in Fees to Resolve FTC Allegations That it Overcharged Struggling Homeowners

Excessive Default-Related Fees Allegedly Violated Earlier Countrywide Settlement (read more)

FTC Warns Marketers That Mobile Apps May Violate Fair Credit Reporting Act

Agency Sends Letter to Marketers of Six Apps for Background Screening (read more)

FTC Settlement Bans Billing Scheme Operators from Negative-Option Sales

Defendants Ordered to Pay Almost $10 Million; Billed Consumers Without Their Consent (read more)

Prepaid Phone Card Marketers Agree to Pay $2.32 Million to Settle FTC Charges

Cards Failed to Deliver the Advertised Minutes (read more)

Under FTC Settlement, Debt Buyer Agrees to Pay $2.5 Million for Alleged Consumer Deception

Firm Also Will Notify Consumers with "Time-Barred" Debt That It Will Not Sue to Collect (read more)

FTC and DOJ To Host Phone Availability on Major Debt Collection Industry Enforcement Action

As part of its continuing effort to protect consumers from financial fraud and keep them informed, the Federal Trade Commission will be joined by the U.S. Department of Justice to discuss a major enforcement action involving the debt collection industry. (read more)

FTC to Host Workshop on Mobile Payments and Their Impact on Consumers

The Federal Trade Commission will host a workshop on April 26, 2012, to examine the use of mobile payments in the marketplace and how this emerging technology impacts consumers. (read more)

FTC Permanently Stops Six Operators from Using Fake News Sites that Allegedly Deceived Consumers about Acai Berry Weight-Loss Products

Alleged Fraudulent Affiliate Marketers will Surrender Assets under Settlements (read more)

FTC Action Bans Defendants from Providing Immigration Services

The immigration services business will be permanently off limits to an operation that allegedly posed as the federal government and tricked people into paying up to $2,500 for immigration forms, under settlements with the Federal Trade Commission. (read more)

Federal Trade Commission, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Pledge to Work Together to Protect Consumers

Memorandum of Understanding Creates Framework for Strong Coordination and Cooperation (read more)

At FTC's Request, Court Freezes Assets of Telemarketing Operation that Allegedly Made Bogus Claims about Reducing Consumers' Interest Rates

At the request of the Federal Trade Commission, a U.S. district court has frozen the assets of a telemarketing operation that allegedly charged consumers hundreds of dollars based on bogus promises to either provide them with low-interest credit or refund their money. (read more)

FTC Seeks Public Comment on Agency's Rules of Practice

Proposed Changes Would Expedite Investigatory Processes, Keep Pace with Technology (read more)

FTC Establishes Streamlined Procedures to Help Maintain the Confidentiality of its Ongoing Investigations; FTC Approves Final Order Settling Charges that PoolCorp Acted Anticompetitively to Stop Manufacturers From Selling Products to Competitors

The Federal Trade Commission has approved Rule 2.17, a new component in the agency's Rules of Practice. Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission has approved a final order settling charges that Pool Corporation, the largest distributor of swimming pool products in the United States, used threats and coercion to stop manufacturers from selling pool products to PoolCorp's competitors. (read more)

CVS Caremark Corporation Settles FTC Deceptive Pricing Charges

Many Seniors and Disabled Consumers Hit With Higher Prices for Prescription Drugs (read more)

Internet Marketers of Acai Berry Weight-Loss Pills and "Colon Cleansers" to Pay $1.5 Million to Settle FTC Charges of Deceptive Advertising and Unfair Billing

The Federal Trade Commission announced that an operation that marketed acai berry supplements, "colon cleansers," and other products using allegedly fraudulent free trial offers and phony endorsements from Oprah Winfrey and Rachael Ray will pay $1.5 million as part of a settlement. (read more)

FTC Action Bans Payment Processor from Using a Novel Payment Method to Debit Accounts

Allegedly Debited Millions of Dollars from Consumers' Bank Accounts Without Their Consent (read more)

Membership Reward Service Aimed at College Savers Settles FTC Charges That Its 'TurboSaver Toolbar' Feature Deceptively Collected Consumers' Personal Information

A membership reward service aimed at consumers trying to save money for college has agreed to settle FTC charges and will be barred from its allegedly deceptive practice of using a web-browser toolbar to collect consumers' personal information without adequately disclosing the extent of the information it is collecting. (read more)

FTC Sends Biennial Report to Congress on the National Do Not Call Registry

The Federal Trade Commission has approved a biennial report to Congress focusing on the use of the Do Not Call Registry by both consumers and businesses over the past two years, as well as the impact that new technologies have had on the Registry. (read more)

FTC Files Amicus Brief in U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit in Saint Joseph Abbey v. Castille

Brief Emphasizes the Funeral Rule's Goals of Protecting Consumers and Promoting Competition (read more)

FTC Seeks Public Comments on Facial Recognition Technology

Federal Trade Commission staff is seeking public comments on the issues raised at a recent FTC workshop exploring facial recognition technology and the privacy and security implications raised by its increasing use. (read more)

FTC Accepts Final Settlement with Online Advertiser Scan Scout, Which Allegedly Used Flash Cookies to Track Consumers

Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission has finalized a settlement order with online advertiser ScanScout, which the FTC alleged deceptively claimed that consumers could opt out of receiving targeted ads by changing their browser settings. (read more)

FTC Stops Marketers From Selling Phony Fuel Economy Devices

The Federal Trade Commission reached a settlement putting a stop to the phony claims of marketers who told consumers their fuel economy device could boost automobile gas mileage by at least 50 percent and "turn any vehicle into a hybrid." (read more)

FTC Announces Personnel Changes in Bureau of Consumer Protection

The Federal Trade Commission is pleased to announce that Jessica Rich, currently a Deputy Director of the agency's Bureau of Consumer Protection, will take over as head of the Bureau's Division of Financial Practices. (read more)

Court Rules in Favor of FTC; Orders Defendants in Payday Lending Case to Pay More Than $294,000 for Illegal Garnishment of Consumers' Paychecks

At the request of the Federal Trade Commission, a federal court has ordered one of the individuals behind a payday lending scheme and two companies he controlled to pay $294,536 for illegally trying to garnish borrowers' wages, and for using other illegal debt-collection practices. (read more)

FTC Warns That Rapid Expansion of Internet Domain Name System Could Leave Consumers More Vulnerable to Online Fraud

Letter Urges ICANN to Implement Pilot Program, Take New Steps to Protect Consumers. The Federal Trade Commission today sent a letter to the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), the organization that oversees Internet domain names, expressing concern that the organization's plan to dramatically expand the domain name system could leave consumers more vulnerable to online fraud and undermine law enforcers' ability to track down online scammers. (read more)

Telemarketer to Pay $500,000 Civil Penalty for Thwarting Consumers' Requests to be Placed On Its Clients' Do Not Call Lists

An Illinois-based telemarketing firm will pay $500,000 to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that it interfered with consumers' requests to be placed on company-specific do not call lists and transmitted deceptive Caller ID names. (read more)

FTC Settlement Requires "U.S. Homeowners Relief" Defendants to Pay Millions, Bans Them from Debt and Mortgage Relief Business

Six defendants have agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that they participated in a fraudulent mortgage modification and foreclosure relief scheme. (read more)

Lane Labs Found in Contempt of Court Order Barring Deceptive Health Claims

A federal judge has ruled in favor of the Federal Trade Commission, finding supplement marketer Lane Labs-USA Inc., and its president Andrew Lane in contempt of a court order that bars them from making deceptive health claims. (read more)

FTC To Provide Refunds to Victims of Bogus Scareware Scam

Starting this week, more than 300,000 consumers who were victims of a "scareware" scam will receive refunds resulting from Federal Trade Commission settlements with Innovative Marketing and other parties involved in the scheme. (read more)

FTC Action Temporarily Halts Operation that Allegedly Used Fake News Sites to Make Deceptive Claims about Acai Berry Weight-Loss Products

As part of its ongoing crackdown on deceptive health claims, the Federal Trade Commission has filed a complaint jointly with the State of Connecticut, seeking to permanently stop a Connecticut-based operation that allegedly used fake news websites to promote their products, made deceptive weight-loss claims, and told consumers they could receive free trials of acai berry and "colon cleanse" products, and only have to pay the nominal cost of shipping and handling. (read more)

FTC Issues The FY 2011 National Do Not Call Registry Data Book; Nearly 210 Million Phone Numbers on Do Not Call List

The Federal Trade Commission today issued the National Do Not Call Registry Data Book for Fiscal Year 2011. The FTC's National Do Not Call Registry provides consumers with an easy way to stop unwanted telemarketing calls. (read more)

FTC Seeks Second Round of Public Comments for Follow-up Study of Alcohol Industry's Voluntary Guidelines for Reducing Advertising and Marketing to Underage Audiences

The Federal Trade Commission is seeking public comments on a proposal to require information from alcoholic beverage manufacturers for a follow-up study of the self-regulatory efforts of the alcoholic beverage industry. (read more)

Facebook Settles FTC Charges That It Deceived Consumers By Failing To Keep Privacy Promises

The social networking service Facebook has agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that it deceived consumers by telling them they could keep their information on Facebook private, and then repeatedly allowing it to be shared and made public. (read more)

FTC to Host Media Call-in to Field Questions About Privacy Settlement

Telephone press conference for media members only (read more)

FTC Sending Refunds to Victims of Debt Management Services Company That Violated Prior Court Order

Checks Being Mailed This Week to Consumers Nationwide (read more)

FTC Requires Three Internet Marketers to Stop Selling "Circle" Cosmetic Contact Lenses without Prescriptions as Part of Settlement

Three Internet marketers of cosmetic, "circle" contact lenses have agreed to resolve Federal Trade Commission charges by entering into settlements that will put a stop to their alleged illegal practice of selling lenses to consumers without prescriptions. (read more)

Nation's Largest Pool Products Distributor Settles FTC Charges of Anticompetitive Tactics

Settlement Prohibits Pool Corporation from Using Threats and Coercion to Stop Manufacturers From Selling Products to Competitors (read more)

FTC Announces Agenda, Panelists for Facial Recognition Workshop

Researchers, industry representatives, consumer advocates, and privacy professionals will take part in the upcoming workshop, "Face Facts: A Forum on Facial Recognition Technology" to be held December 8, 2011 at the FTC Conference Center at 601 New Jersey Ave. N.W. in Washington, D.C. (read more)

FTC Issues Performance and Accountability Report for Fiscal Year 2011

The Federal Trade Commission has issued its Fiscal Year (FY) 2011 Performance and Accountability Report. The report shows American taxpayers how the FTC has managed its resources, highlights major accomplishments in fulfilling the FTC's two core goals of protecting consumers and promoting competition, and outlines plans for addressing future challenges. (read more)

Last Remaining Defendants in "Hope Now" Scheme Settle FTC Charges; Order Puts Them Out of the Mortgage Relief Business

The Federal Trade Commission has obtained a settlement against the remaining defendants in an allegedly fraudulent mortgage modification scheme that will permanently ban them from the mortgage assistance business and force them to return ill-gotten gains to consumers. (read more)

FTC to Hold Public Hearing on Fur Products Name Guide

The Federal Trade Commission will hold a public hearing on December 6, 2011, to obtain input on whether to amend the agency's Name Guide that lists the common animal names that are allowed on fur labels. The hearing is part of a review of the Name Guide required by Congress under the Truth in Fur Labeling Act of 2010 and the Federal Trade Commission's systematic review of all current FTC rules and guides. (read more)

FTC Wins $29.8 Million Judgment in Bogus Government Grant Case

Court Also Bans Defendants from Marketing Numerous Products and Services Related to Their Alleged Scam (read more)

FTC Welcomes a New Privacy System for the Movement of Consumer Data Between the United States and Other Economies in the Asia-Pacific Region

The Federal Trade Commission welcomed the approval by the forum on Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) of a new initiative to harmonize cross-border data privacy protection among members of APEC. (read more)

FTC-Initiated Case Results in Contempt Order Against 'Scam Recovery' Kit Promoters

Court Rules Defendants Must Comply with its Preliminary Injunction Barring Advance Fees (read more)

Online Advertiser Settles FTC Charges ScanScout Deceptively Used Flash Cookies to Track Consumers Online

Online advertiser ScanScout has agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that it deceptively claimed that consumers could opt out of receiving targeted ads by changing their computer's web browser settings to block cookies. (read more)

Operator of Social Networking Website for Kids Settles FTC Charges Site Collected Kids' Personal Information Without Parental Consent

The operator of www.skidekids.com, a website that advertises itself as the "Facebook and Myspace for Kids," has agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that he collected personally information from approximately 5,600 children without obtaining prior parental consent, in violation of the Commission's Children's Online Privacy Protection Act ("COPPA") Rule. (read more)

FTC, Tennessee Attorney General Permanently Halt Medical Discount Scheme

Telemarketers who peddled medical "insurance" that was actually a bogus medical discount plan have agreed to settle charges by the FTC and Attorney General of Tennessee that they violated federal and state laws. (read more)

In FTC 'Hoodia' Weight Loss Case, Settlement Requires Defendants to Turn Over Assets

One is Banned from Marketing Dietary Supplements, Another from Making Weight-loss Claims (read more)

FTC Extends Comment Period on Proposed Settlement with Marketer of Four Loko Malt Beverage Until December 2, 2011

The Federal Trade Commission has extended the deadline for the public to submit comments on a proposed settlement with Phusion Projects, LLC, the company that markets the beverage Four Loko, until December 2, 2011. (read more)

At FTC's Request, Court Orders Debt Collection Operation to Stop Deceiving and Abusing Consumers

FTC Alleges that Defendants Targeted English- and Spanish-Speaking Consumers, Posing As Process Servers and Attorneys (read more)

FTC Approves Final Settlement Orders Against Marketers Who Claimed Their Mobile Apps Could Cure Acne

Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission has finalized two settlement orders with three individuals who allegedly claimed that their smartphone applications could cure acne. (read more)

Former FTC Commissioner William E. Kovacic Named Recipient of 2011 Kirkpatrick Award

Federal Trade Commission Chairman Jon Leibowitz today named former FTC Commissioner and Chairman William E. Kovacic the 2011 recipient of the Miles W. Kirkpatrick Award for Lifetime FTC Achievement, noting how much of his professional career and personal passion Kovacic has devoted to the agency. (read more)

Third FTC Roundtable to Cover Motor Vehicle Leasing Issues, Review Sales, Financing and Leasing Issues from All of the Roundtables, and Discuss Possible Next Steps

Agency Continues to Seek Public Comments (read more)

FTC Gives Final Approval to Settlement with Google over Buzz Rollout

Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission has accepted as final a settlement with Google, and authorized the staff to provide responses to the commenters of record. (read more)

Court Finds Defendant in Contempt for Violating Prior Court Order That Prohibited Him from Making Credit Repair Pitches to Consumers

Responding to charges by the Federal Trade Commission, a U.S. district court has found a credit repair seller in contempt for violating a previous court order that required him to stop promoting worthless credit repair products and services to consumers. (read more)

Bogus Government Grant Promoters Agree to Permanent Ban to Resolve FTC Charges

Marketers Also Pitched Sham Products, Including Useless Credit Cards, Fake Work-at-Home Opportunities, and Worthless Dietary Supplements, According to FTC Complaint (read more)

FTC Charges Credit Repair Operators With Misleading Credit Bureaus and Charging Consumers Illegal Up-Front Fees

The Federal Trade Commission has charged the operators of a credit repair company with making false statements to credit bureaus about information in consumers' credit reports, and illegally collecting fees from consumers before performing any services. (read more)

FTC Testifies About the Interagency Working Group on Food Marketed to Children

The Federal Trade Commission testified today before the U.S. House of Representatives on the agency's efforts to help address childhood obesity through its participation in the Interagency Working Group on Food Marketed to Children. (read more)

Peer-to-Peer File-Sharing Software Developer Settles FTC Charges

Default Settings in Mobile File-Sharing App Jeopardized Consumers' Personal Files (read more)

Important Information Regarding the Right of Borders Customers to Opt Out of Transfer of Personal Information to Barnes and Noble

The Federal Trade Commission is reminding customers of Borders Group that they have until October 15, 2011, to decide whether to opt out of having their personal contact information and purchasing history shared with Barnes and Noble. (read more)

Court Orders Defendant Who Assisted "Grant Writers" Scheme to Pay $1.68 Million for Refunds to Defrauded Consumers, After Trial on FTC Charges

In response to charges by the Federal Trade Commission and four state attorneys general, a U.S. district court has ordered a defendant who assisted in a wide-ranging government grant scheme to pay $1.68 million, and has banned her from marketing money-making opportunities to consumers. (read more)

FTC Testifies on Protecting Children Online in a Fast-Changing Marketplace, and Proposed Changes to COPPA Rule

The Federal Trade Commission today told a House Subcommittee that it is committed to protecting children online, and that the agency recently proposed changes to the Children's Online Privacy Protection Rule (COPPA Rule) to make sure the Rule keeps pace with fast-changing technology. (read more)

At FTC's Request, Court Shuts Down Deceptive Mortgage and Debt Relief Operation

One Firm Charged $1,495 for Loan Modification Program, but Provided No Services (read more)

FTC Requires Packaging Changes for Fruit-Flavored Four Loko Malt Beverage

Marketer of Supersized, High-Alcohol Beverage Agrees to Stop Allegedly Deceptive Claims to Settle FTC Charges (read more)

At FTC's Request, Court Orders Debt Collector to Stop Deceiving Clients and Abusing Consumers

At the request of the Federal Trade Commission, a U.S. district court has halted an operation that allegedly subjected consumers to abusive debt-collection practices and deceived the small-business clients for whom it collects. (read more)

FTC Unveils Educational Materials for Small Businesses Explaining New Electronic Payment Rules

Provisions Take Effect Oct. 1, Will Lower Some Merchants' Costs (read more)

FTC Settlement Bans Alleged Spammer from Sending Unsolicited Text Messages

An operator who allegedly sent millions of illegal spam text messages to consumers is banned from sending any unsolicited text messages, under a settlement agreement with the Federal Trade Commission entered by a federal court. (read more)

Reebok to Pay $25 Million in Customer Refunds To Settle FTC Charges of Deceptive Advertising of EasyTone and RunTone Shoes

Settlement Order Prohibits Reebok from Making Unsupported Claims that ‘Toning Shoes' Strengthen, Tone Muscles (read more)

FTC Announces Action Against Major Marketer of Consumer Goods

Alleges Overhyped Advertising Claims; Consumers to Receive Millions in Refunds in Settlement (read more)

FTC Asks Court To Halt Defendant from Impersonating Federal Agencies While Steering Consumers to Mortgage, Tax, and Debt Relief Services

Scheme Used Fictitious Federal Agencies and Misrepresentations about Debt Relief, FTC Alleges (read more)

FTC Seeks Protection for Personal Customer Information in Borders Bankruptcy Proceeding

As part of the Federal Trade Commission's ongoing efforts to protect consumer privacy, the Director of the FTC Bureau of Consumer Protection sent a letter advocating protection of personal customer information held by Borders Group, which is currently in bankruptcy. (read more)

FTC To Host Workshop on Facial Recognition Technology

The Federal Trade Commission will host a workshop in Washington, DC on December 8, 2011, exploring facial recognition technology and the privacy and security implications raised by its increasing use. (read more)

FTC Seeks Comment on Proposed Revisions to Children's Online Privacy Protection Rule Changes in Technology Drive Proposed Updates

The Federal Trade Commission is seeking public comment on proposed amendments to the Children's Online Privacy Protection Rule, which gives parents control over what personal information websites may collect from children under 13. The FTC proposes these amendments to ensure that the Rule continues to protect children's privacy, as mandated by Congress, as online technologies evolve. The Commission proposes modifications to the Rule in five areas: definitions, including the definitions of "personal information" and "collection," parental notice, parental consent mechanisms, confidentiality and security of children's personal information, and the role of self-regulatory "safe harbor" programs. (read more)

Federal Agencies Release Annual Report to Congress on Scholarship Fraud

The Federal Trade Commission, the Department of Justice, and the Department of Education have issued their annual report to Congress describing the agencies' continued efforts to combat scholarship and financial aid fraud, as required by the College Scholarship Fraud Prevention Act of 2000. (read more)

FTC Action Halts Allegedly Illegal Tactics of Payday Lending Operation That Attempted to Garnish Consumers' Paychecks

After the Federal Trade Commission filed an action in U.S. district court, a payday lender that allegedly attempted to illegally garnish consumers' wages has agreed to stop the challenged conduct pending trial. (read more)

FTC Presents Criminal Liaison Unit Award to Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Arbittier Williams

The Federal Trade Commission is honoring Jennifer Arbittier Williams, an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, with its fifth Annual Criminal Liaison Award for her work to combat consumer fraud. The award is presented annually to a criminal law enforcer who demonstrates a commitment to consumer protection in partnership with the FTC. (read more)

"Acne Cure" Mobile App Marketers Will Drop Baseless Claims Under FTC Settlements

Marketers who advertised that their smartphone applications could treat acne have agreed to stop making baseless claims in order to settle FTC charges. The mobile applications, commonly referred to as "apps," were sold in Apple's iTunes Store and Google's Android Marketplace. (read more)

Five Things Parents Should Know About Underage Drinking

FTC Launches 2011 "We Don't Serve Teens" Education Campaign; Materials Are Available at DontServeTeens.gov (read more)

FTC Adds Defendant in Deceptive Mortgage Loan Modification Case

The FTC has amended its complaint against U.S. Mortgage Funding, Inc. by adding as a defendant Louis Gendason. The amended complaint also asks the court to issue a preliminary injunction against Gendason that will reduce the chance of consumer injury and preserve the possibility of consumer redress while the defendants await trial. (read more)

FTC Warns Small Businesses: Don't Open Email Falsely Claiming to be From FTC

The FTC is warning small businesses that an email with a subject line "URGENT: Pending Consumer Complaint" is not from the FTC. (read more)

FTC Testifies on Children's Identity Theft

The Federal Trade Commission today told the House Committee on Ways and Means Committee Subcommittee on Social Security that, "Protecting consumers – especially vulnerable consumers such as children – against identity theft and its consequences is a critical component of the Commission's consumer protection mission." (read more)

As Hurricane Irene Approaches, FTC Offers Financial Preparedness Tips, Advises Consumers to Watch Out for Scams

With Hurricane Irene approaching the East Coast, the Federal Trade Commission reminds consumers that when it comes to preparing for a weather emergency, financial readiness is as important as having a flashlight with fully charged batteries. Also, the FTC warns that it's important to be mindful of possible scams in the aftermath of a disaster. (read more)

FTC Updates Telemarketer Fees for the Do Not Call Registry

The Federal Trade Commission has announced updated fees starting on October 1, 2011, for telemarketers accessing phone numbers on the National Do Not Call Registry. (read more)

FTC Cautions Consumers on the Pitfalls of Penny Auctions

Online penny auctions may offer deals, but they can also pose problems, as the Federal Trade Commission warns in a new consumer alert Online Penny Auctions: Nothing for Something? (read more)

FTC Shuts Down Operators of Deceptive Government Grant Scheme

Defendants Falsely Promised "Guaranteed" $25,000 Grant from the U.S. Government (read more)

Marketers Falsely Claimed to Be Affiliated with Federal Assistance Programs, Agency Alleges; Operators in One Case Required to Pay $1.8 Million

The Federal Trade Commission put an end to three schemes that claimed they would help consumers with their mortgage and debt problems, as part of settlements with defendants who allegedly claimed a bogus affiliation with government assistance programs. (read more)

FTC Permanently Halts Operation that Allegedly Made Bogus Claims about Eliminating Consumers' Debt

Two Principals Banned from Selling Financial Products and Services (read more)

FTC Approves Final Order Settling Charges against Marketer for Claiming that Nivea Skin Cream Can Help Consumers Slim Down

Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission finalized the Order settling charges against Beiersdorf, Inc. for falsely claiming that regular use of its Nivea My Silhouette! skin cream can significantly reduce users' body size. The company also agreed to pay $900,000 as part of the settlement. Under the final Order, Beiersdorf may not claim that any product applied to the skin causes substantial weight or fat loss or a substantial reduction in body size; that any drug, dietary supplement, or cosmetic causes weight or fat loss or a reduction in body size, unless the claim is backed by two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled human clinical studies; or that any drug, dietary supplement, or cosmetic has health benefits, unless the claim is backed by valid scientific evidence. (read more)

FTC Approves Final Orders Settling Charges that Credit Report Resellers Allowed Hackers to Access Consumers' Personal Information

Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission has approved final orders settling charges against three credit report resellers, SettlementOne Credit Corporation; ACRAnet, Inc.; and Fajilan and Associates, Inc., also doing business as Statewide Credit Services. The FTC alleged the companies did not take reasonable information security steps to protect consumers' data, allowing hackers to access more than 1,800 credit reports without authorization. The FTC's orders settling the charges require the companies to strengthen their data security procedures and submit to audits for 20 years. (read more)

Mobile Apps Developer Settles FTC Charges It Violated Children's Privacy Rule

Company Collected Kids' Information Without Their Parents' Consent (read more)

FTC Modifies Part 3 of Agency's Rules of Practice

Rule Changes will Further Improve the FTC's Adjudicative Process (read more)

FTC Seeks Comment for Review of "Unavailability Rule"

Rule Governs How Grocery Stores Advertise Products on Sale (read more)

FTC Releases Reports on Cigarette and Smokeless Tobacco Advertising and Promotion

Amount Spent Declines for Cigarettes, Increases for Smokeless Tobacco in 2007 and 2008 (read more)

FTC Testifies on Consumer Protection and the Rent-to-Own Industry

The Federal Trade Commission testified today on consumer protection issues relating to the rent-to-own industry. The testimony described the agency's role in enforcing laws relating to financial issues, provided background on the rent-to-own industry, and described key findings of a 2000 report published by the FTC's Bureau of Economics on the rent-to-own industry. (read more)

FTC Extends Public Comment Period to August 15, 2011 for Aristotle's Proposed Safe Harbor Program Under the Children's Online Privacy Protection Rule

The Federal Trade Commission today announced that it is extending until August 15, 2011, the deadline for public comments relating to a proposed safe harbor program that Aristotle International, Inc. has submitted for Commission approval under the Children's Online Privacy Protection Rule. (read more)

FTC Sues Two Funeral Homes for Failing to Provide Price Lists; Undercover Inspections in Eight States Find Violations of FTC's Funeral Rule

At the request of the Federal Trade Commission, the U.S. Department of Justice has charged funeral homes in Chicago and Washington, D.C. with violating an FTC consumer protection rule designed to ensure that people have the information they need to compare prices and buy only the funeral services and goods they want. (read more)

FTC Issues Report: "Forty Years of Experience with the Fair Credit Reporting Act"

The Federal Trade Commission today issued a staff report, that compiles and updates the agency's guidance on the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), the 1970 law designed to protect the privacy of credit report information and ensure that the information supplied by credit reporting agencies is as accurate as possible. (read more)

FTC Settlement Requires Internet Marketer to Stop Selling Cosmetic Contact Lenses without Prescriptions

The Federal Trade Commission has reached a settlement with an Internet marketer and his company that will put a stop to their alleged illegal practice of selling cosmetic contact lenses to consumers without prescriptions. (read more)

FTC Will Not Enforce Provisions of MARS Rule Against Real Estate Professionals Helping Consumers Obtain Short Sales

The Federal Trade Commission today issued a statement announcing that it will forbear from enforcing most provisions of its Mortgage Assistance Relief Services (MARS) Rule against real estate brokers and their agents who assist financially distressed consumers in obtaining short sales from their lenders or servicers. (read more)

New FTC Video Helps Businesses Comply with CAN-SPAM Rule

Say "spam" and most business executives think of annoying e-mail messages, like the ones that hold out a phony offer to split $50 million that's sitting in a foreign bank. Of course, this type of message is covered by the Federal Trade Commission's CAN-SPAM Rule, which is designed to protect consumers from deceptive commercial e-mail. (read more)

FTC Testifies on Protecting Consumers' Privacy

The Federal Trade Commission today told Congress that protecting consumers' privacy – through law enforcement, education and policy initiatives – is a top priority at the agency. (read more)

FTC Enhances Longstanding Regulatory Review Program to Increase Public Participation and Reduce Burden on Business

The Federal Trade Commission today told Congress it is taking steps to enhance the agency's longstanding program to review rules and guides, which will promote greater efficiency, transparency, and public participation. The FTC announced several initiatives to ensure its regulations are up-to-date, effective, and not overly burdensome, including: updating its schedule of rule and guide reviews for the next decade; seeking public comments to improve its regulatory review process; launching a new regulatory review web page; and streamlining the form and information that companies must submit when seeking antitrust clearance for proposed mergers or acquisitions. (read more)

FTC, Federal Reserve Board Issue Final Changes to Risk-Based Pricing Rule

Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission and the Federal Reserve Board have announced final changes to the Risk-Based Pricing Rule to require creditors to disclose credit score information to consumers when a credit score is used in setting or adjusting credit terms. (read more)

FTC Settlement Prohibits Marketer from Claiming that Nivea Skin Cream Can Help Consumers Slim Down

As part of its ongoing efforts to protect consumers from over-hyped advertising claims, the Federal Trade Commission reached a settlement requiring Nivea skin cream maker Beiersdorf, Inc. to stop claiming that regular use of its Nivea My Silhouette! skin cream can significantly reduce consumers' body size. The company also has agreed to pay $900,000 as part of the settlement. (read more)

Consumer Confidence in Internet Marketplace Depends on Privacy Protections FTC Tells Senate Commerce Committee

The Federal Trade Commission today told Congress that consumers must be confident that their privacy will be protected if they are to be willing to take advantage of all the benefits offered by the Internet marketplace. (read more)

Consumer Reporting Agency to Pay $1.8 Million for Fair Credit Reporting Act Violations

Company Provided Sensitive Consumer Credit Information to Marketers In Violation of Law (read more)

FTC Files Amicus Brief in U.S. District Court Opposing Proposed Class Action Settlement with Debt Buyer Midland Funding LLC

The Federal Trade Commission filed an amicus brief in federal court opposing a class action settlement that would require consumers to surrender protections provided by the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) and state laws in exchange for minimal payments. (read more)

Court Bans Defendants from Selling Work-at-Home and Grant Scams, and Orders Them to Pay $10.4 Million

A federal judge has ruled in favor of the Federal Trade Commission and ordered Real Wealth, Inc. and its owner, Lance Murkin, to pay $10.4 million, the full amount of harm caused to thousands of consumers nationwide who were victimized by the Defendants' work-at-home and grant scams. The Court also banned Real Wealth and Murkin from marketing or selling work-at-home or grant-related products, and from assisting others in doing so. (read more)

FTC Testifies on Data Security

The Federal Trade Commission told Congress today that to minimize the risk of identity theft or other harm, companies should employ reasonable safeguards to protect consumer information, collect only information for which they have a legitimate business need, and retain data only as long as necessary to fulfill the business purposes for which it was collected. The FTC also reiterated its recommendation that Congress pass legislation that would require companies to implement reasonable security practices and to notify consumers when there is a data security breach. (read more)

FTC Approves Final Order Settling Charges that Firm Used Misleading Online Reviews

Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission finalized the Order settling charges that Legacy Learning Systems Inc. and its owner, Lester Gabriel Smith, deceptively advertised the "Learn and Master Guitar" program through online affiliate marketers who falsely posed as ordinary consumers or independent reviewers without clearly disclosing they were paid substantial commissions for every sale they generated. Under the final order, Smith and Legacy Learning will pay $250,000, and maintain a system to review and monitor their affiliate marketers' representations and disclosures. (read more)

FTC Staff Extends Deadline for Public Comments on Businesses Education Publication About Online Disclosures

The staff of the Federal Trade Commission will extend the public comment period for "Dot Com Disclosures: Information About Online Advertising" – the business education publication discusses how federal advertising law applies to advertising and sales on the Internet. Last month, the FTC staff announced that it was seeking public comment to assist it in updating the business education. [Read May 26, 2011 news release here.] At the request of a stakeholder, the comment deadline has now been extended for 30 days until August 10, 2011. (read more)

FTC Settlement Bans Online U.S. Electronics Retailer from Deceiving Consumers with Foreign Website Names

Defendants Also Cannot Charge Consumers Before Goods Are Ready to Ship (read more)

FTC Staff Submits Comment to FERC on Assessing the Effects of Proposed Horizontal Mergers on Market Power

The Federal Trade Commission's staff submitted a comment to the U.S. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission providing views on how energy regulators should apply the revised Horizontal Merger Guidelines. The revised Guidelines, which the FTC and the Department of Justice updated last year, outline how the federal antitrust agencies evaluate the likely competitive impact of mergers and whether those mergers comply with U.S. antitrust law. The FTC staff comment is in response to a Notice of Inquiry issued by FERC, seeking to determine to what extent its approach should reflect the revised Guidelines. (read more)

Federal Agencies Combat Immigration Services Scams

DHS, DOJ and FTC Collaborate with State and Local Partners in Unprecedented Effort (read more)

FTC, Department of Justice to Host Forum on Child Identity Theft

The FTC and the Department of Justice's Office for Victims of Crime will host "Stolen Futures: A Forum on Child Identity Theft," on July 12, 2011. (read more)

Court Halts Bogus Prepaid Calling Card Claims; FTC Alleges Cards Failed to Deliver the Advertised Minutes

At the request of the Federal Trade Commission, a U.S. district court has ordered a temporary halt to the deceptive advertising claims used to promote prepaid phone cards marketed by Millennium Telecard, Inc. (read more)

FTC Charges Promissory Note Pitchman With Deceiving Consumers

Infomercial Falsely Claims It's Easy to "Find 'Em," "List 'Em," and "Make Money" Agency Also Settles Charges Against Consumer Who Gave Allegedly Misleading Testimonial (read more)

FTC Approves Final Order Settling Charges that Oreck Corporation Made False and Unproven Claims That Its Ultraviolet Vacuum and Air Cleaner Can Prevent Illness

Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission finalized the Order settling charges that Oreck Corporation made false and unproven claims that two of its appliances can reduce the risk of flu and other illnesses, and eliminate virtually all common germs and allergens. (read more)

FTC Seeks Input for Revising Its Guidance to Businesses About Disclosures in Online Advertising

Needed Revisions Will Reflect Dramatic Changes in Online World Since Guidance Was Issued 11 Years Ago (read more)

FTC Stops Marketers in Nationwide 'Free Vacation' Prize Scam Targeting Spanish-Speaking Consumers

Every Contestant 'Won' But Promised Vacations Not Delivered (read more)

FTC Testifies on Consumer Privacy and Protection in the Mobile Marketplace

The Federal Trade Commission today told Congress that while mobile technology, such as smart phones, is giving consumers a vast array of new products and services, it also presents new consumer privacy challenges. (read more)

In Comment to Federal Communications Commission, FTC Stresses that Sellers are Responsible for Calls Made by Outside Telemarketers

In a comment submitted to the Federal Communications Commission, the Federal Trade Commission has urged its sister agency to hold that sellers of goods and services should be held responsible for sales calls made by others on their behalf, even if the seller did not physically place the calls. (read more)

Operators of Online "Virtual Worlds" to Pay $3 Million to Settle FTC Charges That They Illegally Collected and Disclosed Children's Personal Information

The operators of 20 online virtual worlds have agreed to pay $3 million to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that they violated the Children's Online Privacy Protection Rule by illegally collecting and disclosing personal information from hundreds of thousands of children under age 13 without their parents' prior consent. (read more)

FTC Recovers Properties, Precious Metals, and other Assets in Case Involving Purported Work-at-Home and Mystery Shopping Opportunities

Marketers who targeted financially strapped Americans by selling a variety of supposed work-at-home and other money-making opportunities will give up their ill-gotten gains under a settlement agreement with the Federal Trade Commission. (read more)

FTC Testifies on Protecting Consumers' Privacy on Mobile Devices

The Federal Trade Commission today told Congress that "the Commission is committed to protecting consumers' privacy in the mobile sphere" by bringing enforcement actions where appropriate and "by working with industry and consumer groups to develop workable solutions that protect consumers while allowing innovation in this growing marketplace." (read more)

FTC to Host Public Forum on Competition Issues in Standard-Setting

The Federal Trade Commission will host a public workshop on June 21, 2011, in Washington, D.C., as part of a project to examine the legal and policy issues surrounding the competition problem of "hold-up" when patented technologies are included in collaborative standards. (read more)

FTC Charges Utah Operation with Deceptive and Abusive Telemarketing

Defendants Allegedly Made 16 Million Calls to Numbers on the Do Not Call Registry; Misrepresented How Funds Would Be Used (read more)

FTC Testifies on Data Security

Agency Settles With Two Firms That Allegedly Failed to Protect Consumers' Personal Data (read more)

FTC Settles Charges Against Two Companies That Allegedly Failed to Protect Sensitive Employee Data

Sensitive Information on Nearly 65,000 Employees Was Compromised, Agency Says (read more)

FTC Sends Refund Checks to Victims of "Wal-Mart Shopping Spree" Scam

This week, an administrator working for the Federal Trade Commission began mailing checks to more than 172,000 consumers nationwide who were defrauded by a scam in which consumers were falsely promised free gifts such as shopping sprees, movie passes, and gas vouchers and wrongfully paid monthly fees for "program memberships" in discount buying and travel clubs. (read more)

FTC Releases Agenda for Telephone Bill Cramming Forum

The Federal Trade Commission has announced the agenda for its day-long public forum in Washington, D.C., on May 11, 2011, to examine telephone bill cramming and explore possible solutions to reduce unauthorized third-party billing on telephone bills. (read more)

FTC to Hold Workshop on Ways to Protect Consumers As Debt Collection Technologies Change

On Thursday, April 28, 2011, the Federal Trade Commission will host a workshop about the impact that technological advances are having on the nation's consumer debt collection system. (read more)

FTC Seeks to Halt 10 Operators of Fake News Sites from Making Deceptive Claims About Acai Berry Weight Loss Products

Internet Marketers Falsely Claim Endorsement from ABC, Fox News, CBS, CNN, USA Today, and Consumer Reports, FTC Alleges (read more)

FTC Cracks Down on Fake News Websites Used to Advertise Acai Berry Weight-Loss Pills

Lawsuits Filed Across the United States (read more)

FTC Files Contempt Charges Against Marketer of Credit Repair, Debt Relief, Food Stamp Services

The Federal Trade Commission has filed contempt charges against a promoter of credit repair and debt relief services and three of his companies, alleging that they continued their deceptive marketing practices in violation of a federal court order. (read more)

FTC Returns $2.3 Million to Consumers; Mortgage Foreclosure Rescue Scam Victims Receive Full Refunds

An administrator working for the Federal Trade Commission has mailed 1,410 refund checks to consumers allegedly defrauded by Home Assure LLC, a so-called mortgage foreclosure rescue service. (read more)

FTC Charges Marketers with Billing Consumers Without Their Consent; Tricked People Who Were Seeking Payday Loans

The Federal Trade Commission charged two men and their companies with unfairly and deceptively billing consumers without their consent, and not providing promised refunds, in violation of federal law. (read more)

OnGuardOnline.gov Urges Taxpayers to Contact the IRS If They Suspect Tax-Related Identity Theft

OnGuardOnline.gov, a partnership of fourteen federal agencies managed by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), is informing consumers that an unexpected message from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) could be a warning sign that their Social Security number is being misused by an identity thief.  (read more)

FTC Testifies on Protecting Social Security Numbers; Millions of Consumers are Victims of Identity Theft Each Year

The Federal Trade Commission today told a House subcommittee that millions of consumers are victims of identity theft each year at a cost of billion of dollars and countless hours of consumers' time to repair the damage. (read more)

FTC Settlement Imposes $100,000 Fine Against Online Retailer for Failing to Post Required EnergyGuide Information for Appliances

Files Complaint Seeking $540,000 Penalty Against Another Retailer For Similar Violations (read more)

April is Financial Literacy Month

A Great Time to Share Free Resources from the FTC (read more)

FTC Warns: Ineffective Bed Bug Treatments Can Take a Bite Out of Consumers' Wallets

With the resurgence of bed bugs in the United States, the Federal Trade Commission urges consumers to be cautious when shopping for products that are touted as remedies or ways of preventing bed bug infestations. (read more)

FTC Settlement Requires Oreck Corporation to Stop Making False and Unproven Claims That Its Ultraviolet Vacuum and Air Cleaner Can Prevent Illness

Marketer Must Pay $750,000 (read more)

FTC Extends Deadline for New "Lighting Facts" Labels to January 1, 2012

After considering public comments, the Federal Trade Commission is extending the deadline for manufacturers to comply with new light bulb labels by approximately six months. (read more)

FTC Chairman Issues Commission's 2011 Annual Report

Highlights Agency Accomplishments to Protect Consumers and Competition (read more)

Court Shutters Telemarketers Peddling Bogus Timeshare Resales

Defendants Allegedly Claimed They Could Find Timeshare Buyers (read more)

FTC Charges Deceptive Privacy Practices in Google's Rollout of Its Buzz Social Network

Google Agrees to Implement Comprehensive Privacy Program to Protect Consumer Data (read more)

FTC Approves Final Order Settling Charges that Marketer of Children's Vitamins Made Deceptive Claims about DHA and Brain and Eye Development

Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission finalized an Order settling charges that a major vitamin marketer and its subsidiaries made false and unsupported claims that their Disney and Marvel Heroes line of children's multivitamins contained a significant amount of DHA (docosahexaenoic acid, an Omega-3 fatty acid) and promoted healthy brain and eye development in children. (read more)

FTC Hosts International Consumer Protection Forum

Week-long 'Consumer University' Meets in Washington, DC (read more)

FTC Finalizes Settlement with Data Broker Agency Charged Privacy Pledges Were Deceptive

Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission has accepted a final settlement with an online data broker that charged consumers $10 based on the false promise that it could "lock their records" so that others could not see or buy them. (read more)

In the Wake of Japan's Massive Earthquake, FTC Warns Consumers About Potential Charity Scams

After the earthquake that rocked Japan's northeast coast and triggered a widespread tsunami last week, the Federal Trade Commission is urging consumers to be cautious of potential charity scams. (read more)

FTC Puts an End to Tactics of Online Advertising Company That Deceived Consumers Who Wanted to "Opt Out" from Targeted Ads

Chitika Inc.'s Opt-Out Expired After Only 10 Days (read more)

FTC Accepts Final Settlement with Twitter for Failure to Safeguard Personal Information

The Federal Trade Commission has finalized a proposed settlement that it announced in June 2010 with social networking site Twitter, which resolved charges that Twitter deceived consumers and put their privacy at risk by failing to safeguard their personal information. (read more)

FTC To Host Consumer Debt Collection Technology Workshop

On April 28, 2011, the Federal Trade Commission will host a public workshop to examine how debt collectors are using new technologies and how this affects consumers. (read more)

FTC Releases List of Top Consumer Complaints in 2010 Identity Theft Tops the List Again

The Federal Trade Commission today released the list of top consumer complaints received by the agency in 2010. The list showed that for the 11th year in a row, identity theft was the number one consumer complaint category. (read more)

FTC Seeks Public Comment on Proposed Information Requests to Alcohol Beverage Manufacturers

The Federal Trade Commission plans to begin a study of the self-regulatory efforts of the alcoholic beverage industry. (read more)

FTC Asks Court to Shut Down Text Messaging Spammer

Operation Blasted Out Text Message Spam at a "Mind-Boggling" Rate, Agency Alleges (read more)

FTC Submits Fiscal Year 2012 Budget Request and Performance Plans to Congress

The Federal Trade Commission submitted its Fiscal Year 2012 budget request to Congress, including an FY 2012 Budget Overview Statement, and FY 2011 and FY 2012 Performance Plans that are required under the Government Performance and Results Act. (read more)

FTC Recovers More Than $3 Million from Operators of DVD Vending Machine Scam

Judgments Entered Against All But One Defendant (read more)

FTC Sends Refund Claim Forms to Nearly 12,000 Victims of Auto Warranty Robocaller

An administrator working for the Federal Trade Commission began mailing claim forms today to 11,780 people defrauded by illegal auto "warranty" robocalls made by Voice Touch, Inc., and its related individuals and entities. (read more)

FTC Adds Further Factual Details to Complaint in Case Against Lights of America, Inc.

The Federal Trade Commission has added further factual details to its complaint against a company that allegedly misled consumers by exaggerating the light output and life expectancy of its Light Emitting Diode (LED) bulbs. (read more)

FTC Offers Tips on Wise Use of Wi-Fi Networks

The Federal Trade Commission, the nation's consumer protection agency, today released tips to help people protect their personal information while they use public wireless networks – Wi-Fi hotspots in coffee shops, libraries, airports, hotels, universities, and other public places. (read more)

Business Opportunity Con Artist Surrenders Million-Dollar Las Vegas Home, Gives Up Appeal in FTC Contempt Case

After trying for years to keep assets he acquired while deceiving consumers with false promotions and bogus business opportunity pitches, a repeat offender has agreed to turn over his Las Vegas home, valued at over $1 million, and give up his appeal of the Federal Trade Commission's case against him. (read more)

Canadian Telemarketer Previously Sued by FTC Gets Nine-Year Prison Sentence in Subsequent Criminal Case Filed by U.S. Attorney

A federal judge has imposed a nine-year prison sentence on a Canada-based con artist who was charged by the U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California with defrauding elderly consumers using phony claims about non-existent prizes and investments. (read more)

FTC Approves Final Order Settling Charges That Dannon Made Deceptive Claims for Activia Yogurt and DanActive Dairy Drink

Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission finalized the Order settling charges that The Dannon Company, Inc. exaggerated the health benefits of its Activia yogurt and DanActive dairy drink, two popular products that contain beneficial bacteria known as probiotics. (read more)

FTC Offers Businesses Tips for Dealing with Medical Identity Theft

The Federal Trade Commission, the nation's consumer protection agency, has information for health care providers and insurers about how to help patients minimize the risk of medical identity theft and deal with the consequences if they become victims of it. (read more)

Credit Report Resellers Settle FTC Charges; Security Failures Allowed Hackers to Access Consumers' Personal Information

As part of the Federal Trade Commission's ongoing campaign to protect consumers' personal information, three companies whose business is reselling consumers' credit reports have agreed to settle FTC charges that they did not take reasonable steps to protect consumers' personal information, failures that allowed computer hackers to access that data. (read more)

FTC Offers Consumer Tips for Valentine's Day

For consumers who are searching for love or already in a relationship, the Federal Trade Commission, the nation's consumer protection agency, has information that may be particularly handy around Valentine's Day. (read more)

Immigration Scam Shut Down by FTC

At the request of the Federal Trade Commission, a federal judge has shut down an operation that allegedly posed as the U.S. government, then duped consumers into paying fees ranging from $200 to $2,500 by claiming the fees would cover processing by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. (read more)

Operator of Deceptive "Scareware" Scheme Will Pay More than $8 Million to Settle FTC Charges

An operator of an online "scareware" scheme will pay more than $8 million to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that he used deceptive ads to trick consumers into thinking their computers were infected with malicious software, and then sold them software to "fix" their non-existent problem. (read more)

Court Freezes Assets of Massive Internet Enterprise in Alleged Billing Scheme

FTC Seeks Return of More Than $275 Million to Consumers (read more)

FTC Forum in May 2011 Will Examine Ways to Protect Consumers From "Cramming" of Unauthorized Charges on Their Phone Bills

The Federal Trade Commission will host a forum on May 11, 2011, in Washington, DC, examining how the government, businesses, and consumer protection organizations can work together to prevent consumers from being hit with unauthorized third-party charges on their phone bills, a practice known as "cramming." (read more)

FTC Settlement Bans Marketers from Debt Relief Business

Defendants Must Pay $500,000 to Settle Charges (read more)

FTC Approves Final Order Settling Charges That Nestlé Subsidiary Made Deceptive Health Claims for BOOST Kid Essentials

Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission finalized the Order settling charges that a subsidiary of Nestlé S.A., the world's largest food and nutrition company, made deceptive advertising claims about the health benefits of its children's drink BOOST Kid Essentials. (read more)

FTC Offers Tips on Making the Most of Your Auto Warranty

Can a dealer void your car's warranty if you have someone else do routine maintenance on the vehicle? (read more)

Merchandiser Who Illegally Charged Consumers' Accounts Settles with FTC

'Short Change' Defendant Banned from Internet Businesses that Access Consumers' Bank Accounts (read more)

FTC Settlement Ends "Tested Green" Certifications That Were Neither Tested Nor Green

Company Allegedly Charged Up To $549.95 for Worthless Environmental Labels (read more)

FTC Settlement Bans Recidivist Robocaller from Telemarketing

Owner of My Car Solutions Pitched Bogus Extended Auto Warranties (read more)

FTC Charges Another Defendant as Part of Crackdown on Bogus Medical Discount Plans

The Federal Trade Commission has charged another defendant in a case filed earlier this year against an operation that allegedly defrauded uninsured Americans by selling them "medical discount plans" that were disguised as health insurance. (read more)

FTC Proposes Additional Time for Manufacturers to Adopt New Light Bulb Label

The Federal Trade Commission is seeking public comments on whether to provide manufacturers approximately six additional months to incorporate new light bulb labels on their packaging, and whether to exempt certain bulbs that will soon be obsolete from those requirements. (read more)

Countdown to National Consumer Protection Week 2011 Begins; Website and Blog Launched

The Federal Trade Commission has launched the website and blog for National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW) 2011, to be held March 6-12. (read more)

FTC Revises Jewelry Guides to Reflect the Use of Base Metal Alloys in Platinum Jewelry

Consumer and Business Education Updated to Help with Holiday Shopping (read more)

Dannon Agrees to Drop Exaggerated Health Claims for Activia Yogurt and DanActive Dairy Drink

FTC Charges that Evidence Supporting Benefits of Probiotics Falls Short (read more)

FTC Settlement Prohibits Marketers of Children's Vitamins from Making Deceptive Health Claims about Brain and Eye Development

Marketers Must Pay $2.1 Million to Refund Purchasers of Disney- and Marvel Heroes-Licensed Vitamin (read more)

FTC Seeks Public Comments on Ways to Strengthen Caller ID Provisions of the Commission's Telemarketing Sales Rule

Seeks Ways to Combat Technologies That Hide Callers' Identities (read more)

FTC Shuts Down Robocallers Who Falsely Promised to Lower Credit Card Interest Rates

Agency Also Issues National Do Not Call Registry Data Book for Fiscal Year 2010 (read more)

FTC Action Puts Deceptive Marketer Out of the Debt Relief Business

Must Surrender Funds in Bank Accounts and Sell Property and Investments (read more)

FTC Charges Marketers with Making Unsubstantiated Claims that They Could Eliminate Consumers' Debt

As part of its continuing crackdown on scams that target consumers in financial distress, the Federal Trade Commission has charged three debt relief operations with making unsubstantiated claims to lure consumers nationwide into paying thousands of dollars in up-front fees, but failing to reduce credit card debts as promised. (read more)

FTC Staff Issues Privacy Report Offers Framework for Consumers, Businesses, and Policymakers

Endorses "Do Not Track" to Facilitate Consumer Choice About Online Tracking (read more)

FTC Approves Final Order Settling Charges That Public Relations Firm Used Misleading Online Endorsements to Market Gaming Apps

Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission has approved a final order settling charges that Reverb Communications, Inc., and its owner, Tracie Snitker, engaged in deceptive advertising. (read more)

FTC Has Gift Card Tips for Holiday Buying

The Federal Trade Commission, the nation's consumer protection agency, has tips and information for consumers who use gift cards for holiday gift-giving. (read more)

FTC Warns Consumers About Online Dating Scams

The Federal Trade Commission, the nation's consumer protection agency, warns that scammers sometimes use online dating and social networking sites to try to convince people to send money in the name of love. (read more)

FTC to Send Refund Checks to Consumers Who Bought Bogus "Ab Force" Weight Loss Devices

An administrator working for the Federal Trade Commission will mail 34,130 refund checks today for approximately $17.89 each to consumers who were deceived into buying "Ab Force" electronic stimulation devices by advertisements that falsely claimed they could help people lose weight. (read more)

FTC Sends Warning Letters to Marketers of Caffeinated Alcohol Drinks

Tells Promoters of Four Loko, Joose, Core Spiked, and Others That Marketing May Be Deceptive or Unfair (read more)

FTC Approves Final Order Settling Deceptive Advertising Charges Against Former POM Wonderful Vice President Mark Dreher

Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission has approved a final order settling charges that Mark Dreher, Ph.D. – who was Vice President of Science and Regulatory Affairs of POM Wonderful LLC from approximately August 2005 to May 2009 – made false and unsubstantiated claims that POM Wonderful 100% Pomegranate Juice and POMx supplements prevent or treat heart disease and prostate cancer. (read more)

At FTC's Request, Court Shutters International Robocall Operation

Companies Falsely Promised to Reduce Consumers' Credit Card Interest Rates (read more)

FTC Extends Comment Period for Proposed Policy Statement Clarifying How to Collect Decedents' Debts

The Federal Trade Commission is extending the public comment period, until December 1, 2010, on a proposed policy statement clarifying when the FTC will take action under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act and the FTC Act against companies who contact the relatives of deceased consumers to collect the decedent's debts. (read more)

New Business Center Can Help Boost Compliance with FTC Law

The Federal Trade Commission has a new Business Center at Business.ftc.gov that gives business owners, attorneys, and marketing professionals the tools they need to understand and comply with the consumer protection laws, rules, and guides the FTC enforces. (read more)

FTC Fines Online Retailers for Failing to Post EnergyGuide Information for Appliances

Three Firms Will Pay More Than $400,000 in Total Penalties (read more)

Psst... Hey Buddy, Wanna Sell a Timeshare?

At FTC's Request, Court Stops Fraudsters Who Took Advantage of Consumers Trying to Resell Timeshares (read more)

FTC Issues Enforcement Policy Statement on New Debt Relief Rule

Enforcement Deferred for Tax Debt Relief Services, but Most Companies Are Now Prohibited From Collecting Advance Fees (read more)

Starting in 2011, FTC Will Require EnergyGuide Labels for Televisions

Televisions manufactured after May 10, 2011 must display EnergyGuide labels so consumers shopping for TVs will have more information about different models and how much energy they use. (read more)

Debt Relief Companies Prohibited From Collecting Advance Fees Under FTC Rule That Takes Effect October 27, 2010

Starting October 27, consumers trying to settle their debts will be protected by a new rule that prohibits companies that sell debt relief services over the telephone from charging fees before settling or reducing a customer's credit card or other unsecured debt. (read more)

FTC Files Comments on FCC's Proposed Cyber Security Certification Program

The Federal Trade Commission has filed comments with the Federal Communications Commission in response to the FCC's proposal to establish a voluntary program under which communications service providers would be certified if they adhere to a set of cyber security objectives or practices. (read more)

FTC Chairman Leibowitz Announces New Resources Communities Can Use to Promote Online Child Safety

With More Than 5 Million Copies of 'Net Cetera' Booklet Distributed, FTC Expands Campaign (read more)

FTC Chairman Leibowitz to Announce New Resources Communities Can Use to Promote Online Child Safety

Federal Trade Commission Chairman Jon Leibowitz will announce tomorrow a community outreach kit to promote online safety for children. (read more)

FTC Submits Comments to FERC on Electricity Transmission Planning and Cost Allocation by Public Utilities

The Federal Trade Commission provided comments to U.S. energy regulators outlining its views on pro-competitive and efficient ways for public utilities to plan for new electricity transmission lines and allocate the costs of paying for them. (read more)

FTC Complaint Charges Deceptive Advertising by POM Wonderful

Agency Proceedings Will Determine Whether Health Claims for Pomegranate Products Are False and Not Supported by Scientific Evidence (read more)

Per Congress, FTC Rescinds Regulations on Smokeless Tobacco, Authority to Move to HHS

In the wake of legislation passed by Congress last year, the Federal Trade Commission will rescind its regulations governing the format and display of health warnings on smokeless tobacco packages and advertising. (read more)

FTC Testifies on Data Security Legislation

The Federal Trade Commission today told a Senate Subcommittee that it supports proposed legislation that would require many companies to use reasonable data security policies and procedures and require those companies to notify consumers when there is a security breach. (read more)

Online Data Broker Settles FTC Charges Privacy Pledges Were Deceptive

An online data broker that charged consumers $10 based on the promise that it could "lock their records"so others could not see or buy them, has agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that its claims were deceptive and violated federal law. (read more)

FTC Proposes Rule to Ban Deceptive Mortgage Ads

The Federal Trade Commission moved to further strengthen its longstanding enforcement program aimed at preventing deceptive mortgage advertising, proposing a rule that would ban misrepresentations for all mortgages and would allow the FTC and the states to seek civil penalties against those who violate the rule. (read more)

Victims of ChoicePoint Data Breach to Receive Redress Checks

An administrator working for the Federal Trade Commission is mailing checks to 14,023 consumers who were victims of ChoicePoint's failure to implement a comprehensive information security program to protect consumers' personal information. (read more)

Court Halts Deceptive Envelope-Stuffing Operation

Consumers Misled to Believe They Could Earn Substantial Income, FTC Alleges (read more)

FTC and International Privacy Enforcement Authorities Launch Global Privacy Cooperation Network and Website

New Network Will Enhance Enforcement, Help to Protect Consumers' Privacy (read more)

Concertgoers Who Bought Springsteen Tickets from Ticketmaster Resale Website Are Sent Refund Claim Forms by FTC

An administrator working for the Federal Trade Commission has mailed claim forms to 1,018 consumers who are eligible for refunds because they allegedly were steered from the Ticketmaster website to its ticket resale website TicketsNow while buying tickets to attend Bruce Springsteen concerts last year. (read more)

It's Time to Talk to Your Child About Underage Drinking

FTC Launches Annual Education Campaign (read more)

FTC Shines a Light on Company's Deceptive Claims for its LED Bulbs

Agency Charges Firm With Misrepresenting the Light Output and Life Expectancy of its Bulbs (read more)

Fees Telemarketers Pay to Access the National Do Not Call Registry Will Not Increase in FY 2011; FTC Approves Final Order Settling Charges that Houghton International's Acquisition of D.A. Stuart GmbH was Anticompetitive

The fees that telemarketers pay to access phone numbers on the National Do Not Call Registry will remain unchanged in fiscal year 2011, the Federal Trade Commission has announced. Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission has approved a final order settling charges that Houghton International's 2008 acquisition of D.A. Stuart GmbH was anticompetitive. (read more)

FTC Seeks Public Comment on a Planned Consumer Fraud Survey

The Federal Trade Commission is seeking public comment on a planned survey on the prevalence of consumer fraud in the United States. (read more)

FTC Warns Consumers to Exercise Caution When Selling a Timeshare Through a Reseller

The Federal Trade Commission, the nation's consumer protection agency, offered these tips for people who seek to sell their timeshare through real estate brokers and agents that specialize in reselling timeshares. (read more)

Public Relations Firm to Settle FTC Charges that It Advertised Clients' Gaming Apps Through Misleading Online Endorsements

A public relations agency hired by video game developers will settle Federal Trade Commission charges that it engaged in deceptive advertising by having employees pose as ordinary consumers posting game reviews at the online iTunes store, and not disclosing that the reviews came from paid employees working on behalf of the developers. (read more)

Floods in Pakistan: FTC Warns Consumers to Give Wisely

In the wake of the devastation caused by flooding in Pakistan and along the border between China and North Korea, the Federal Trade Commission warns consumers to choose carefully when considering urgent appeals for aid in the news, online, and at social networking sites. (read more)

FTC Sends Second Round of Redress Checks to Stewart Finance Victims

Beginning today, a claims administrator working for the Federal Trade Commission will mail more than 16,000 checks to consumers who were victims of Stewart Finance Company. (read more)

FTC to Announce Action Against Internet Marketers of Acai Berry Weight-Loss Pills and "Colon Cleansers"

Millions of consumers who are anxious to lose weight or prevent cancer have seen the ads: "…USE WITH CAUTION! Major weight loss in short periods of time may occur," or "detoxify your organs," and break down and remove "toxic waste matter which may have been stuck in the folds and wrinkles of your digestive system for years and years." (read more)

FTC, State Attorneys General, Insurance Commissioners Crack Down on Bogus "Medical Discount Plans" Peddled to the Uninsured, Uninsurable, and Unemployed

Operators charged with scamming people who did not have health insurance - the uninsured, the unemployed, and the uninsurable - have been targeted by a federal-state coalition of law enforcement agencies for fraudulently marketing "medical discount plans" as health insurance. (read more)

FTC Halts Cross Border Domain Name Registration Scam

Thousands of Small Businesses and Non-profits Billed for Bogus Renewal Fees (read more)

FTC, States to Host Press Conference Announcing Law Enforcement Sweep Targeting Fraudulently Marketed Medical Discount Plans

Forty-seven million Americans lack health insurance. (read more)

FTC Warns Consumers to Beware of Pitfalls When Choosing Pre-paid Phone Cards

Pre-paid calling cards can be a convenient way to stay in touch. (read more)

National Do Not Call Registry Tops 200 Million Phone Numbers

It's Fast, Free to Register a Number, and Registrations Never Expire (read more)

Deceptive Marketers Banned from Selling Mortgage Relief Services; One Defendant Ordered to Pay $11.5 Million

Eight marketers are banned from selling mortgage modification or foreclosure relief services under settlements with the Federal Trade Commission. (read more)

Marketers of "Rapid Debt Reduction" Program To Pay $1.5 Million for Falsely Claiming They Could Lower Consumers' Interest Rates

Defendants Permanently Banned from Marketing Debt Relief Services (read more)

FTC, OECD Announce New Policymaking Guide To Help Consumer and Regulatory Authorities Around the World

FTC Hosts Roundtable Discussion Featuring U.S. Ambassador to OECD (read more)

FTC to Host Roundtable Discussion on New OECD Publication: Consumer Policy Toolkit

The Consumer Policy Toolkit will help government policy makers around the world who strive to protect and empower consumers in an increasingly complex global marketplace. (read more)

Fidelity National Financial Settles FTC Charges that its Acquisition of LandAmerica Subsidiaries Reduced Competition in Title Information Markets

To settle Federal Trade Commission charges that its 2008 acquisition of three LandAmerica Financial, Inc. subsidiaries was anticompetitive, Fidelity National Financial, Inc. will sell several title plants and related assets in the Portland, Oregon, and Detroit, Michigan, metropolitan areas, and in four other Oregon counties. (read more)

Dietary Supplement Maker to Pay $5.5 Million to Settle FTC False Advertising Charges

FTC Challenges Claims that Supplements Cause Weight Loss and Treat or Prevent Colds, Flu, Allergies, and Hay Fever (read more)

Nestlé Subsidiary to Settle FTC False Advertising Charges; Will Drop Deceptive Health Claims for BOOST Kid Essentials

Case Involving Drink for Kids Is Agency's First Challenging Deceptive Probiotic Advertising (read more)

FTC Mails Redress Checks to Borrowers Misled By Chase Financial Funding, Inc.'s Allegedly Deceptive Mortgage Ads

The Federal Trade Commission is distributing refund checks to borrowers lured by a firm charged with deceptively advertising that it offered 3.5 percent, fixed-payment, 30-year mortgage loans. (read more)

FTC Staff Opinion: Community CarePartners, Inc.'s Proposed Discount Rx Program Exempt From the Robinson-Patman Act

Program Falls Under Non-Profit Institutions Act (read more)

Many Americans Snared by International Frauds; FTC Publication Tells Consumers How to Steer Clear

Americans report losses of more than a billion dollars a year to international scam artists, according to the Federal Trade Commission, the nation's consumer protection agency. (read more)

FTC Warns of Gulf Oil Spill Job Scams

Publication Provides Resources to Find Legitimate Opportunities (read more)

'Telefunder' to Pay $300,000 for Abandoning Millions of Telemarketing Calls to Potential Charity Donors

Company Also Allegedly Called Thousands of Consumers Who Asked Not to be Called (read more)

Twitter Settles Charges that it Failed to Protect Consumers' Personal Information; Company Will Establish Independently Audited Information Security Program

Social networking service Twitter has agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that it deceived consumers and put their privacy at risk by failing to safeguard their personal information, marking the 30th case the FTC has brought targeting faulty data security, and the agency's first such case against a social networking service. (read more)

Stores and Wild Oats Intellectual Property, Denies Sale of Wild Oats Intellectual Property to Topco Associates; FTC Comments on Information Privacy and Innovation in the Internet Economy in Response to Department of Commerce Inquiry

The Federal Trade Commission has acted upon several applications filed by the Whole Foods Divestiture Trustee to sell assets under a March 5, 2009 consent order designed to help restore the competition lost by Whole Foods Market Inc.'s 2007 acquisition of Wild Oats Market, Inc. The Federal Trade Commission submitted a written comment on information privacy and innovation in the Internet economy in a comment submitted to the Department of Commerce, which has requested public comment as part of an inquiry on the subject. (read more)

Coming in 2011: New Labels for Light Bulb Packaging

Labels Will Emphasize Lumens, Not Watts, as a Measure of Bulb Brightness (read more)

FTC Presents Criminal Liaison Award to Assistant United States Attorney Ellyn Lindsay

The Federal Trade Commission has honored Assistant United States Attorney Ellyn Lindsay with its fourth Annual Criminal Liaison Award for her work to combat consumer fraud. (read more)

At FTC's Request, Court Halts Massive Robocall Operation

Firm Delivered 370 Million Prerecorded Calls and Used Offshore Shell Company (read more)

Court Puts Brakes on Company That Deceptively Pitched "Extended" Auto Warranties

Firm's Owner Has History of Engaging in Misleading Telemarketing (read more)

FTC Urges Consumers to Watch Out for Scams Related to Gulf Oil Spill

As the nation follows news of the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, so do scammers. The Federal Trade Commission issued an alert urging consumers and businesses to watch out for con artists trying to take advantage of the oil spill in the gulf and to report their experiences to federal and state authorities. (read more)

Countrywide Will Pay $108 Million for Overcharging Struggling Homeowners; Loan Servicer Inflated Fees, Mishandled Loans of Borrowers in Bankruptcy

Two Countrywide mortgage servicing companies will pay $108 million to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that they collected excessive fees from cash-strapped borrowers who were struggling to keep their homes. (read more)

FTC Distributes Refunds to Consumers Who Bought Unproven Cold and Flu Remedies from Rite Aid Corporation

The Federal Trade Commission distributed more than 2,335 refund checks today to consumers who purchased "Rite Aid Germ Defense" tablets and lozenges believing that they would prevent and treat colds and the flu or reduce the severity and duration of these illnesses.. (read more)

Spyware Seller Settles FTC Charges; Order Bars Marketing of Keylogger Software for Illegal Uses

The Federal Trade Commission has put the brakes on the business practices of an operation that was selling spyware and showing customers how to remotely install it on other people's computers without their knowledge or consent. (read more)

Tips for Tomorrow's Savvy Consumers

With the graduation season in full swing, and students preparing to take on their new role as adults in the marketplace, the FTC has a series of tips to help them become smarter consumers. (read more)

FTC Extends Enforcement Deadline for Identity Theft Red Flags Rule

At the request of several Members of Congress, the Federal Trade Commission is further delaying enforcement of the "Red Flags" Rule through December 31, 2010, while Congress considers legislation that would affect the scope of entities covered by the Rule. (read more)

FTC Seeks Comments on Proposed Orders Requiring Food-and-Beverage Industry to Produce Information about Marketing to Kids

The Federal Trade Commission is seeking comments on a proposal to compel information from major food and beverage manufacturers, distributors, and marketers, as well as quick-service restaurant companies. (read more)

FTC Submits Statement to Congress on Deceptive Marketing of Dietary Supplements

Agency Describes Enforcement and Education Activities (read more)

FTC Creates "Teaser" Website to Help Consumers Spot "Advance Fee" Loan Scams

The FTC has created a "teaser" website for a fictitious lending company that warns consumers about how easy it is to be fooled by scammers charging up-front fees for bogus loans. (read more)

At FTC's Request, Court Stops Deceptive Telemarketing Calls Pitching Credit Card Interest Rate Reduction

At the request of the Federal Trade Commission, a federal judge has put a stop to three companies' allegedly deceptive telemarketing calls, including robocalls, that promised to reduce consumers' credit card interest rates; frozen their assets; and appointed a receiver to take control of the business. (read more)

FTC Settlement Reins in New York-based Prepaid Calling Card Distributor

Crackdown on the Industry Has Yielded More Than $4 Million (read more)

FTC Hosts International Consumer Protection Forum

Global Enforcement Network Meets in Washington, DC. (read more)

Tell Mom You Care About Her Privacy

Send the FTC's Musical E-card (read more)

FTC Tells Congress It Is Reviewing Whether Technology Changes Call for Revisions to the Agency's Rule Protecting Kids' Online Privacy

The Federal Trade Commission today said that the rapid-fire pace of technological change, including an explosion in children's use of mobile devices and interactive gaming, has led the agency to accelerate its review of the Children's Online Privacy Protection Rule (COPPA Rule) to make sure that it is still adequately protecting children's privacy. (read more)

FTC Mails Redress Checks to Fraud Victims Who Lost Money Through MoneyGram's Money Transfer System

Beginning today, a claims administrator working for the Federal Trade Commission will mail more than 34,000 checks totaling almost $18 million to consumers identified as victims of a series of cross-border fraud schemes involving payments via MoneyGram International, Inc., the second-largest U.S. wire-transfer company. (read more)

FTC Helps Prepare Kids for a World Where Advertising Is Everywhere

FTC's New Campaign Seeks to 'Ad-ucate' Tweens (read more)

Women's Clothing Retailer Talbots and its Telemarketer to Pay Total of $161,000 for Violating FTC's Robocall 'Opt-Out' Requirements

Women's clothing retailer Talbots and its California marketing company have agreed to pay penalties totaling $161,000 to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that they illegally delivered prerecorded "robocalls" that failed to give consumers proper notice of their right to opt out of receiving telemarketing calls. (read more)

FTC to Mail Out $6 Million in Refunds to Consumers Who Bought Deceptively Advertised Weight-loss Supplements from QVC

Starting April 30, an administrator working for the Federal Trade Commission will mail more than 140,000 refund checks totaling about $6 million to consumers who bought certain "For Women Only" brand dietary supplements from TV home shopping channel QVC, Inc.  (read more)

FTC Charges More Defendants and Violations in Matter of Grant Connect, LLC; FTC Approves Final Order Settling Charges That Transitions Optical, Inc. Used Anticompetitive Practices to Exclude Rivals

The Federal Trade Commission has charged additional defendants and violations in the matter of Grant Connect, LLC, a company that allegedly deceptively promised government grants to consumers, and failed to adequately disclose that those who bought their products or services would be enrolled in continuity plans with significant monthly fees, primarily for other unrelated products.; Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission has approved a final settlement order in the matter Transitions Optical, Inc., and sent letters to members of the public who submitted comments. (read more)

FTC Warns Against Credit Card Interest Rate Reduction Scams

U.S. consumers are being inundated with prerecorded "robocalls" from companies claiming they can negotiate lower credit card interest rates - for a fee. (read more)

Federal Trade Commission to Launch Advertising Literacy Campaign

National Program Gives ‘Tweens' Ages 8 to 12 Skills to Recognize, Understand Advertising (read more)

Consumer Reporting Agency for Casinos Settles FTC Charges

A nationwide speciality consumer reporting agency that provides casinos with credit reports that are used to assess customers' eligibility for credit and check cashing has agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that it violated the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). (read more)

Earth Day Tips for Saving Energy Around the House

Searching for ways to make the most of Earth Day? Start by looking at home. (read more)

FTC to Host Public Roundtable to Review Whether Technology Changes Warrant Changes to the Children's Online Privacy Protection Rule

In light of rapidly changing technology such as the increased use of smartphones and other devices to access the internet, the Federal Trade Commission will host a public roundtable, "Protecting Kids' Privacy Online: Reviewing the COPPA Rule," on June 2, 2010 to explore whether to update the Children's Online Privacy Protection Rule. (read more)

FTC Sends Out More Redress Checks to Victims of the J.K. Publications Credit Card Fraud

Beginning April 9, the FTC, through its claims administrator, will be mailing more than 145,000 checks totaling over $4 million to consumers identified as victims of an illegal credit card billing scam operated by J.K. Publications and other defendants. (read more)

FTC Provides Comments to FCC on Protecting Children in Traditional and New Media Environments; FTC Approves Final Settlement Order Regarding The M Group, Inc., Doing Business As Bamboosa; FTC Approves Final Settlement Order Regarding Roaring Fork Valley Physicians I.P.A.; FTC Approves Final Settlement Order with Richard Stanton

The Federal Trade Commission explains how it helps to keep children safe in both fast-changing online environments; Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission has approved a final settlement order in the matter of The M Group, Inc.; Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission has approved a final settlement order in the matter of Roaring Fork Valley Physicians I.P.A., Inc.; Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission has approved a final settlement order in the matter of Richard Stanton. (read more)

Telemarketers Barred from Falsely Telling Consumers That Proceeds from the Sale of Household Goods Will Benefit Charities or the Disabled

Complaint Brought as Part of 2008's "Operation Tele-Phoney" Law Enforcement Sweep (read more)

Make the Most of Your Money During Financial Literacy Month

Free Information from the FTC Can Help You Stay Savvy All Year (read more)

FTC, Florida Attorney General Charge Promoters of Bogus Alcohol Cure

Defendants Publicly Revealed Some Consumers' Alcoholism, Complaint Alleges (read more)

OnGuardOnline.gov Off to a Fast Start with Online Child Safety Campaign

More than 1 Million Copies of Net Cetera Booklet Distributed to Help Parents, Kids Navigate the Online World (read more)

New Jersey-Based Telephone Fundraisers Banned from Soliciting Donations; Will Pay $18.8 Million for Violating FTC Order

Defendants Deceived Consumers into Believing All Donations Would Help Local Police, Firefighters, Veterans (read more)

Loan Pitchman Permanently Banned from Telemarketing

Consumers Charged Up-Front Fee for Supposed General-Use Credit Card (read more)

Dave and Buster's Settles FTC Charges it Failed to Protect Consumers' Information

More than 130,000 Customers' Credit or Debit Cards Compromised (read more)

Auto Warranty Robocallers To Pay Over $655,000 and Sell Assets For Consumer Redress

FTC Settlement Also Permanently Bars Voice Touch, Inc. From Telemarketing (read more)

Undercover Inspections of Funeral Homes in Nine States and Washington, D.C. Press Funeral Homes to Comply with Consumer Protection Law

Investigators working undercover in nine states and the District of Columbia found significant violations of Federal Trade Commission consumer protection rules at 52 of 175 funeral homes they visited during 2009. (read more)

FTC Releases Agenda for Final Roundtable on Consumer Privacy

The Federal Trade Commission today released the agenda for its final roundtable on consumer privacy issues scheduled for March 17, 2010, at the FTC Conference Center, 601 New Jersey Ave, NW Washington DC, 20001. (read more)

LifeLock Will Pay $12 Million to Settle Charges by the FTC and 35 States That Identity Theft Prevention and Data Security Claims Were False

LifeLock, Inc. has agreed to pay $11 million to the Federal Trade Commission and $1 million to a group of 35 state attorneys general to settle charges that the company used false claims to promote its identity theft protection services, which it widely advertised by displaying the CEO's Social Security number on the side of a truck. (read more)

FTC Proposes Requiring EnergyGuide Labels on TVs to Better Inform Consumers

Agency is Seeking Public Comments on Proposed Rule Through May 14, 2010 (read more)

FTC to Distribute $3 Million in Refunds to Consumers Who Bought Bogus Health Products

The Federal Trade Commission will distribute more than 5,700 refund checks totaling approximately $3 million to consumers who bought infrared saunas and dietary supplements from Roex, Inc., based on bogus claims that the products would treat, prevent, or cure a wide range of serious diseases. (read more)

FTC Seeks Public Comments on Trustee's Proposal to Divest Two Stores under Whole Foods Market Inc. Divestiture Order; FTC To Review Three Agency Rules in 2010

The Federal Trade Commission is seeking public comments on applications filed by the Divestiture Trustee to divest two stores pursuant to the Commission's March 5, 2009 order, which was issued to help restore the competition lost by Whole Foods Market Inc.'s 2007 acquisition of Wild Oats Market, Inc. (read more)

Payment Processing CEO Banned from the Business; Company Illegally Debited Millions from Consumers' Bank Accounts

The chief executive officer of a payment processing company will be banned from the business as part of a settlement resolving Federal Trade Commission charges that the company illegally debited millions of dollars in bogus charges from consumers' bank accounts. (read more)

FTC Halts Massive Cramming Operation that Illegally Billed Thousands; Alleges Scam Took in $19 Million over Five Years

A U.S. district court judge has ordered a halt to the illegal practices of an Internet services company that crammed unauthorized charges onto the telephone bills of thousands of consumers and small businesses for services they never agreed to buy. (read more)

Statement of Federal Trade Commission Chairman Jon Leibowitz on Ending "Pay-for-Delay" Drug Settlements, Praises Inclusion in President's Health Care Proposal

"When drug companies agree not to compete, consumers lose," said Federal Trade Commission Chairman Jon Leibowitz. (read more)

Widespread Data Breaches Uncovered by FTC Probe

FTC Warns of Improper Release of Sensitive Consumer Data on P2P File-Sharing Networks (read more)

Ticketmaster and TicketsNow Settle FTC Charges of Deceptive Sales Tactics, Refunds for Springsteen Concertgoers Provided; FTC Warns Other Ticket Resellers

The Federal Trade Commission today announced it has settled charges that Ticketmaster and its affiliates used deceptive bait-and-switch tactics to sell event tickets to consumers. (read more)

TC Cracks Down on Con Artists Who Target Jobless Americans

Scams Prey on Victims of the Recession With Bogus Job, Money-Making Schemes (read more)

FTC Targets Scammers Pushing Phony Jobs, Bogus Money-Making Schemes

In conjunction with state law enforcement officials and other federal agencies, the Federal Trade Commission will hold a press conference on Wednesday, February 17, 2010, at 11 a.m. to announce a law enforcement sweep cracking down on job and work-at-home fraud fueled by the economic downturn. (read more)

FTC Returns $1.6 Million to Consumers Scammed by Bogus Debt Collector

Checks Will Arrive This Month (read more)

FTC Targets Scammers Pushing Phony Jobs, Bogus Money-Making Schemes

In conjunction with state law enforcement officials and other federal agencies, the Federal Trade Commission will hold a press conference on Tuesday, February 9, 2010, at 11 a.m., to announce a law enforcement sweep cracking down on job and work-at-home fraud fueled by the economic downturn. (read more)

FTC Testifies About Stepped-Up Efforts to Protect Consumers Affected by the Economic Downturn

The Federal Trade Commission today told the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation that the agency has stepped up efforts to protect consumers affected by the economic downtown, and that additional authority would make the agency even more effective. (read more)

FTC Proposes Rule That Would Bar Mortgage Relief Companies From Charging Up-Front Fees

The Federal Trade Commission moved to protect distressed homeowners from the promoters of bogus foreclosure rescue and mortgage modification services by proposing a new rule that would forbid companies to charge up-front for these services. Instead, companies could only collect payment after providing services. (read more)

FTC Warns 78 Retailers, Including Wal-Mart, Target, and Kmart, to Stop Labeling and Advertising Rayon Textile Products as "Bamboo"

Seventy-eight companies nationwide have received Federal Trade Commission letters warning that they may be breaking the law by selling clothing and other textile products that are labeled and advertised as "bamboo," but actually are made of manufactured rayon fiber. (read more)

Commission Approves FY 2011 Budget Request and GPRA Performance Plans for Submission to Congress; FTC Staff: Proposed Kentucky Regulations for Licensing Retail Clinics Raise Competitive Concerns; FTC Issues Annual Financial Acts Enforcement Report to Federal Reserve

The Federal Trade Commission has approved its FY 2011 Budget Overview Statement and the Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA) Performance Plans for FY 2010 and FY 2011. The Federal Trade Commission's staff has sent a letter to the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) stating that certain new regulations proposed for the licensing of "limited service clinics" (LSCs) in the state raise competitive concerns and are likely to increase the cost of health services for Kentucky consumers, particularly the uninsured. The Federal Trade Commission has issued its annual report to the Federal Reserve Board on FTC enforcement efforts in 2009 related to four consumer finance laws: the Truth in Lending Act, Consumer Leasing Act, Equal Credit Opportunity Act, and Electronic Fund Transfer Act. (read more)

Tenant Screening Agency Settles FTC Charges: Failed to Respond to Consumers' Requests for Their Files or Investigate Disputes

A tenant screening agency that rejected consumers' requests for their files and failed to recheck information on their consumer reports after they had disputed it has agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that it violated federal law. (read more)

Mortgage Lender Must Hire Fair-Lending Consultant to Comply with FTC Settlement

A home mortgage lender that previously settled Federal Trade Commission charges of discriminatory lending will have to hire an outside consultant to make sure it does not illegally charge higher prices to African-American and Hispanic consumers. (read more)

FTC Tells House Subcommittee it will Help Identify Ways to Strengthen Consumer Protections in the Funeral Industry

The Federal Trade Commission today told the U.S. House Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade, and Consumer Protection of the Committee on Energy and Commerce that the FTC will use its expertise to help the Subcommittee address the problems highlighted by last year's horrific events at the historic Burr Oak Cemetery in Alsip, Illinois. (read more)

Commission Seeks Public Comments on Carilion Clinic's Application to Divest Center for Surgical Excellence to Fairlawn Surgery Center, LLC; FTC Approves The Dow Chemical Company's Petition to Divest its Acrylic Acid and Latex Polymers Businesses to Arkema Inc.; FTC Approves Amended Complaint in Matter of JPM Accelerated Services, Inc.

The Federal Trade Commission is seeking public comments on a proposed divestiture by Carilion Clinic of Roanoke, Virginia. Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission has approved the petition of The Dow Chemical Company seeking approval to divest its acrylic acid monomers and latex polymers businesses to Arkema Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Arkema Group. The Federal Trade Commission has approved an amended complaint in the matter of JPM Accelerated Services, Inc. (read more)

Indoor Tanning Association Settles FTC Charges That It Deceived Consumers About Skin Cancer Risks From Tanning

The Federal Trade Commission today charged the Indoor Tanning Association with making false health and safety claims about indoor tanning. (read more)

FTC Releases Agenda for Second Roundtable on Consumer Privacy and More Information for Third Roundtable

The Federal Trade Commission today released the agenda for its second roundtable on consumer privacy issues scheduled for January 28, 2010. (read more)

Mortgage Broker Who Dumped Consumer Records Settles FTC Charges

A mortgage broker who discarded consumers' personal financial records in a publicly- accessible dumpster paid a $35,000 civil penalty to settle Federal Trade Commission charges. (read more)

Marketers of Unproven Weight-Loss Products Ordered to Pay Nearly $2 Million

Court Rules in Favor of FTC in Case of Diet Tea and Bio-Slim Patch (read more)

FTC Seeks Public Comments on Petition of SCI Corporation International for Approval to Divest Cemetery and Related Funeral Home to Legacy Funeral Holdings; FTC Orders Buyers of Consumer Debt to Submit Information for Study of Debt Buying Industry

The Federal Trade Commission is seeking public comments on a petition by SCI Corporation International for approval to divest the Davis Memorial Park cemetery and related funeral home in Las Vegas, Nevada, to Legacy Funeral Holdings of Nevada, LLC. The Federal Trade Commission has ordered the nation's largest consumer debt buyers to turn over information about their practices in buying and collecting consumer debt, which the FTC intends to use for a study of the debt-buying industry. Consumers have reported that debt collectors frequently try to collect from the wrong consumers or the wrong amounts, or both. (read more)

Victims of Suntasia Telemarketing Scam Being Reimbursed $14.1 Million

More Than 356,000 Checks Being Mailed on Behalf of FTC to Consumers Nationwide (read more)

FTC, Partners Launch Consumer Protection Week Web Site, Blog

The Federal Trade Commission has launched its Web site and blog for National Consumer Protection Week 2010, which will be held March 7-13. (read more)

FTC Issues Staff Report on Agency's Fraud Forum

Includes Recommendations for Preventing and Halting Consumer Fraud (read more)

FTC Announces Lower Price Cap for Extra Credit Report Copies; FTC Continues Crackdown on Mortgage Relief Scams; Three More Defendants Added to Operation Stolen Hope

The Federal Trade Commission has announced that it is lowering from $11 to $10.50 the maximum amount that consumer reporting agencies are allowed to charge consumers for an extra copy of their credit report. The Federal Trade Commission, as part of its crackdown on mortgage scams, has charged three more defendants with promoting phony mortgage relief services. (read more)

Court Jails Promoter of Work-At-Home Scam; Envelope-Stuffing Scheme Deceived Spanish-Speaking Consumers

A federal court has jailed the marketer of a deceptive envelope-stuffing scheme for ignoring a court order that required him to stop his illegal practices. (read more)

FTC Approves Final Consent Order in Matter Concerning Dyna-E International, Inc.; FTC Approves Final Consent Orders in Three Matters Concerning Pure Bamboo, LLC Sami Designs, LLC, and CSE, Inc.

Following a public comment period, the Commission has approved a final consent order in the matter of Dyna-E International, Inc. and a letter to the public commenter. Following a public comment period, the Commission has approved final consent orders in the three matters concerning Pure Bamboo, LLC; Sami Designs, LLC, doing business as (d/b/a) Jonano; and CSE, Inc., d/b/a Mad Mod, and also sent letters to the public commenters. (read more)

FTC, Visa, and BBB Partner to Educate Consumers About Free Trial Offers and Online Scams

The Federal Trade Commission has joined an effort to alert consumers to online deceptive marketing connected to free trial offers that require individuals to cancel or opt-out of a recurring charge for future products or services. (read more)

Cybersafety Booklet for Parents and Kids Now Available

FTC, Department of Education, Federal Communications Commission Officials Present Free Booklet at D.C. Middle School (read more)

FTC Submits Comment to HHS on Providing Consumers Better Information About Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Plans; FTC Issues Report to Congress on Use of its Enhanced Authority Under the U.S. SAFE WEB Act

The Federal Trade Commission has submitted a comment supporting a proposed rule by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The Federal Trade Commission has issued a report to Congress on the U.S. SAFE WEB Act. (read more)

FTC to Hold Forum on Food Marketing to Children Tomorrow

The Federal Trade Commission will hold a day-long forum on food marketing to children titled "Sizing Up Food Marketing and Childhood Obesity." (read more)

Beware of Bogus Tests, Inspections, and Fixes for Damaged Drywall

The Federal Trade Commission warns consumers to be skeptical of anyone trying to sell test kits, inspections, or quick fixes for problems caused by imported drywall that has turned out to be contaminated. (read more)

FTC Report Finds Sexually and Violently Explicit Content in Online Virtual Worlds Accessed by Minors

Recommends Best Practices to Shield Children and Teens (read more)

FTC Sues to Stop Robocalls With Deceptive Credit Card Interest-Rate Reduction Claims

Commission Also Issues National Do Not Call Registry Data Book for 2009 (read more)

FTC Warns World Cup Soccer Fans: Watch Out for Ticket Scams

In conjunction with the organizers of the World Cup, the Federal Trade Commission is warning soccer fans that they could become victims of scams. (read more)

FTC Approves Amended Complaint in Matter of Grant Writers, LLC

The Commission has approved an amended complaint in the matter currently pending against Grant Writers Institute, LLC and its related entities. (read more)

Season's Tweetings! Tips to Share for Happy Holiday Shopping

Just in time for the holiday shopping season, the Federal Trade Commission has 12 tweets about watching your wallet, shopping wisely, and protecting your personal information. (read more)

FTC To Host Privacy Roundtable

The Federal Trade Commission will host the first of three public Roundtables to explore the privacy challenges posed by technology and business practices that collect and use consumer data. (read more)

FTC Renews Call to Entertainment Industry to Curb Marketing of Violent Entertainment to Children

Marketers of violent music, movies, and video games can do more to restrict the promotion of these products to children, according to the seventh in a series of Federal Trade Commission reports on marketing violent entertainment to children. (read more)

FTC Testifies on Aggressive Efforts Against Deceptive Marketing of Prepaid Phone Cards

The Federal Trade Commission today told the U.S. House Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade and Consumer Protection of the Committee on Energy and Commerce that the FTC has cracked down on the deceptive marketing of prepaid phone cards, and that pending legislation would benefit consumers by giving the agency stronger tools to combat the problem. (read more)

FTC Website Educates Kids about Privacy and Fraud

FTC.gov/YouAreHere Launches New Content (read more)

Final FTC Roundtable to Discuss Debt Collection Litigation; Continued Call for Public Comments

The Federal Trade Commission will host a public event on consumer protection issues arising when debt collectors sue consumers to recover on a debt. (read more)

Commission Issues 2009 Report on U.S. Ethanol Market Concentration

The Commission has issued the "2009 Report on Ethanol Market Concentration." (read more)

FTC To Host International Conference on Empowering Consumers in E-Commerce; U.S. Secretary of Commerce Locke, OECD Secretary-General Gurría, U.S. OECD Ambassador Kornbluh to be Featured Speakers

The Federal Trade Commission will host more than 250 government officials, business leaders, consumer advocates, and academics from around the world to discuss opportunities and challenges for consumers in electronic commerce at a conference organized by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) December 8-10, 2009. (read more)

FTC Workshop Begins Tomorrow: "From Town Criers to Bloggers: How Will Journalism Survive the Internet Age?"

The Federal Trade Commission will hold a two-day workshop to explore how the Internet has affected journalism, with representatives from print, online, broadcast, and cable news organizations; academics; consumer advocates; bloggers; and others involved in new media. (read more)

Court Orders Australia-based Leader of International Spam Network to Pay $15.15 Million

U.S. Co-Defendant Forfeits More Than $800,000 and Faces Jail Time (read more)

Federal and State Agencies Target Mortgage Relief Scams

FTC Leads "Operation Stolen Hope" to Stop Fraud and Help Troubled Homeowners (read more)

FTC Announces Agenda for December 15 Forum to Explore Food Marketing to Children

Will Address Developments in Self-Regulation; Report on Recommended Nutritional Standards (read more)

FTC Settlements Bar Deceptive Online Marketing of "Free" Internet Auction Kits

Defendants Could Pay More Than $1 Million for Failing to Disclose Terms of Recurring-Fee Plan (read more)

FTC Charges Online Check Writing Marketers with Contempt

Defendants' Operation Continues to "Ring the Dinner Bell" for Fraudsters (read more)

FTC Issues Performance and Accountability Report (PAR) for Fiscal Year 2009

The Commission has issued its Performance and Accountability Report (PAR) for fiscal year (FY) 2009. (read more)

Federal Regulators Issue Final Model Privacy Notice Form

Eight federal regulatory agencies today released a final model privacy notice form that will make it easier for consumers to understand how financial institutions collect and share information about consumers. (read more)

FTC Warns Internet Peddlers that Marketing Unproven H1N1 Flu Products May Be Illegal

The Federal Trade Commission last week sent 10 warning letters to Web site operators who made questionable claims that their products can prevent, treat, or cure the H1N1 flu, commonly known as swine flu. (read more)

FTC Lodges Contempt Charge Against BlueHippo

Company Pocketed More Than $15 Million From Consumers Last Year, But Almost None Received a Computer (read more)

FTC Files Contempt Charges Against Attorney for Ponzi Scheme Operators

Attorney Failed to Turn Over Proceeds from Defendants' Business Opportunity Involving Sale of Internet Kiosks to Consumers (read more)

Holiday Shopping on a Budget: Tips About Layaway Plans

With the holiday season fast approaching, some smart planning now can keep your household budget intact when you ring in the new year. One option to consider is layaway plans. (read more)

FTC Charges 'Credit Card' Companies with Deceptive Marketing

Commission's Order Prohibits Limitations on Discount Real Estate Listings (read more)

FTC Rules Michigan Realtors' Group Reduced Competition, Harmed Consumers by Restricting Access to Discount Realtors' Listings on its Multiple Listing Service and Public Web Sites

Commission's Order Prohibits Limitations on Discount Real Estate Listings (read more)

FTC Charges Marketers with Making Baseless Weight-Loss Claims Despite Order to Stop

The U.S. Justice Department, at the Federal Trade Commission's request, filed suit today in federal court in a case affecting consumers nationwide. (read more)

FTC Extends Enforcement Deadline for Identity Theft Red Flags Rule

At the request of Members of Congress, the Federal Trade Commission is delaying enforcement of the "Red Flags" Rule until June 1, 2010, for financial institutions and creditors subject to enforcement by the FTC. (read more)

Cutting Home Heating Bills Down to Size

Whether you use oil, natural gas, or electricity, there are many ways to ensure that you stay warm at home this winter without heating the great outdoors. (read more)

FTC Calls for Improved Advertising and Billing Practices to Empower Consumers and Facilitate Competition Among Telephone, Cable and Other Communications Providers

In response to a request by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for comment, the Federal Trade Commission has urged adoption of policies to protect and empower consumers as they buy and use communications services, including telephone, cable, and Internet access services. (read more)

Final FTC Roundtable to Discuss Debt Collection Litigation; Continued Call for Public Comments

The Federal Trade Commission will host a public event on consumer protection issues arising when debt collectors sue consumers to recover on a debt. (read more)

Commission Proposes New Light Bulb Labels, Seeks Public Comments

The FTC has proposed new labeling requirements for "lamps," commonly known as light bulbs, in response to a congressional mandate. (read more)

Halloween's Coming: Trick or Tweet from the FTC

Just in time for Halloween: The Federal Trade Commission has 12 Tweets about protecting yourself, your kids, and your computer when online (read more)

Maker of Rayon Clothes Barred from Deceptive "Bamboo" Claims

Company's Products Not Made of Bamboo Fiber (read more)

MoneyGram to Pay $18 Million to Settle FTC Charges That it Allowed its Money Transfer System To Be Used for Fraud

Company Also Required to Implement Comprehensive Anti-Fraud Program and to Monitor its Agents (read more)

Iconix Brand Group Settles Charges Its Apparel Web Sites Violated Children's Online Privacy Protection Act

Company Will Pay $250,000 Civil Penalty (read more)

Consumer Data Broker ChoicePoint Failed to Protect Consumers' Personal Data, Left Key Electronic Monitoring Tool Turned Off for Four Months

New Settlement Imposes Stricter Compliance Regimen (read more)

Federal Trade Commission to Announce Multi-Million-Dollar Settlement With Major U.S. Firm for Facilitating Cross-Border Fraud

The Federal Trade Commission will host a press event on Tuesday, October 20, 2009, at 11 am EDT to announce a multi-million-dollar settlement with a major U.S. company for facilitating cross-border telemarketing fraud between the United States and Canada. (read more)

FTC Director of Division of Advertising Practices to Discuss Revised Endorsements and Testimonials Guides

Media Encouraged to Call with Questions (read more)

FTC Stops Two Deceptive Telemarketing Operations

Magazine Seller, Medical Discount Plan Pitchmen Barred From False Claims (read more)

FCC and FTC Chairmen Jointly Encourage The Public to Take Safeguards to Protect Themselves, Their Privacy, and Their Personal Information Online

Washington, D.C. - As part of National Cyber Security Awareness Month, Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Julius Genachowski and Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Chairman Jon Leibowitz today encouraged the public to take steps to protect themselves, their privacy, and their personal information online. (read more)

Two Bogus Credit Repair Operations Settle FTC Charges

Two bogus credit repair companies and their principals settled Federal Trade Commission charges that they falsely claimed they could clean up consumers' credit reports and collected up-front fees for their services, in violation of federal law. (read more)

FTC Settles with Six Companies Claiming to Comply with International Privacy Framework

Six U.S. businesses have agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that they deceived consumers by falsely claiming they were abiding by an international privacy framework that provides a means for U.S. companies to transfer data from the European Union to the United States in keeping with EU and U.S. law. (read more)

Commission Extends Public Comment Period For Proposed Debt Relief Rulemaking

The Federal Trade Commission today announced an extension of the public comment period for proposed Debt Relief Amendments to the Telemarketing Sales Rule. (read more)

FTC Publishes Final Guides Governing Endorsements, Testimonials

Changes Affect Testimonial Advertisements, Bloggers, Celebrity Endorsements (read more)

Administrative Law Judge Dismisses Complaint in Case Challenging Cancer Cure Claims

An Administrative Law Judge has dismissed a Federal Trade Commission administrative complaint alleging that the respondents were responsible for the deceptive advertising of an herbal remedy that was falsely advertised as a cure for cancer. (read more)

FTC Seeks Public Comments on Petition by Dow Chemical Company to Sell Hollow Sphere Particle Business to OMNOVA Solutions, Inc.

The FTC is seeking public comments on a petition by Dow Chemical Company for approval to divest its hollow sphere particle business to OMNOVA Solutions Inc., as required by a Commission consent order issued on March 31, 2009. (read more)

Live Webcast: FTC Roundtable on Protecting Consumers in Debt Collection Arbitration and Litigation

Today the Federal Trade Commission is hosting a public event on consumer protection issues in debt collection proceedings. (read more)

FTC to Host Forum on Food Marketing to Children

Will Address Developments in Self-Regulation; Report on Recommended Nutritional Standards (read more)

FTC Files Joint Amicus Brief in Jerman v. Carlisle, McNellie, Rini, Kramer, and Ulrich LPA, et al.

The Federal Trade Commission has joined the U.S. Department of Justice in filing an amicus brief in the U.S. Supreme Court in the matter of Jerman v. Carlisle, McNellie, Rini, Kramer, and Ulrich LPA, et al., No. 08-1200 (U.S. S. Ct.). (read more)

Live Webcast: FTC Roundtable on Protecting Consumers in Debt Collection Arbitration and Litigation

Today and tomorrow, the Federal Trade Commission is hosting a public event on consumer protection issues in debt collection proceedings. (read more)

Don't Be Fooled by Sweepstakes Scammers Posing as Federal Officials

Callers with Prize News Don't Work for the FTC (read more)

Internet Payday Lenders Will Pay $1 Million to Settle FTC and Nevada Charges; FTC Had Challenged Defendants' Illegal Lending and Collection Tactics

An international Internet payday lending operation will pay $1 million to settle Federal Trade Commission and State of Nevada charges that it failed to disclose key loan terms and used unlawful debt collection tactics. (read more)

Commission Seeks Public Comments on Proposed Follow-Up Study on Food Marketing to Youth

The Federal Trade Commission is seeking public comments on a proposal to collect information from food and beverage companies and quick-service restaurants on promotional activities, nutrition information, and expenditures for products marketed to children and adolescents. (read more)

FTC Announces New Enforcement Actions In Continuing Crackdown On Mortgage Relief Services Scams

The Federal Trade Commission today announced two new law enforcement actions in a continuing crackdown on mortgage foreclosure rescue and loan modification scams, bringing to 22 the number of these cases the Commission has filed since the housing crisis began. (read more)

FTC to Host Public Roundtables to Address Evolving Consumer Privacy Issues

The Federal Trade Commission will host a series of day-long public roundtable discussions to explore the privacy challenges posed by the vast array of 21st century technology and business practices that collect and use consumer data. (read more)

Beware of California Wildfire Charity Scams, FTC Warns

The Federal Trade Commission warns consumers to use caution when donating to charities that claim to help victims of the devastating California wildfires. (read more)

FTC Launches 2009 Campaign Targeting Teen Drinking

The Federal Trade Commission today launched the 2009 "We Don't Serve Teens" public education campaign to help prevent teenagers from getting easy access to alcohol, and to promote compliance with the legal drinking age of 21. (read more)

Second FTC Roundtable to Discuss Debt Collection Arbitration and Litigation; Call for Public Comments

The Federal Trade Commission will host a two-day public event on consumer protection issues in litigation and arbitration proceedings to collect on consumer debt. This will be the second in a series of three FTC roundtable discussions on these topics. (read more)

FTC Testifies on Efforts to Stop Economic Stimulus Fraud

The Federal Trade Commission today told the U.S. Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs that the agency is working to protect consumers from fraudulent schemes claiming to dispense guaranteed grants from the economic stimulus program, and from other frauds exploiting consumers who are struggling due to the economic downturn. (read more)

FTC Approves Final Consent Order Requiring Sears to Disclose the Installation of Tracking Software Placed on Consumers' Computers; FTC Approves Final Consent Order in Matter Concerning Enhanced Vision Systems, Inc.

FTC Approves Final Consent Order Requiring Sears to Disclose the Installation of Tracking Software Placed on Consumers' Computers (read more)

CVS to Pay Nearly $2.8 Million in Consumer Refunds to Settle FTC Charges of Unsubstantiated Advertising of AirShield 'Immune Boosting' Supplement

Just in time for back-to-school and cold season, national retailer CVS Pharmacy, Inc. will stop making misleading claims that its "AirShield" dietary supplements can prevent colds, fight germs, and boost immune systems. (read more)

FTC Stresses Need to Consider Competition and Consumer Protection in Developing National Broadband Plan

The Federal Trade Commission today filed comments in response to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Notice of Inquiry regarding development of a National Broadband Plan that will seek to ensure that every American has access to broadband capability. (read more)

FTC Settlement Bans Robocalls from Auto "Warranty" Company

New Rule Prohibiting Unwanted Robocalls Takes Effect Today (read more)

New Rule Prohibiting Unwanted "Robocalls" to Take Effect on September 1

Telemarketers Must Obtain Prior Written Approval from Consumers Who Want to Receive Such Calls (read more)

Court Rules in Favor of FTC, Orders Supplement Marketers to Pay Nearly $70 Million for Consumer Refunds

A federal district court has ordered the marketers of two dietary supplements - "Supreme Greens" and "Coral Calcium" - who claimed the products would cure ailments ranging from cancer and Parkinson's disease to heart disease and autoimmune diseases to pay nearly $70 million for deceiving consumers about the products' effectiveness and safety. (read more)

FTC Settlement Bars Seller's Deceptive 'Biodegradable' Claims

A retailer of rayon towels will be barred from making false claims that mislead consumers into thinking that its products are "biodegradable," under a proposed settlement with the Federal Trade Commission. (read more)

FTC Actions Stop Deceptive Schemes in "Operation Tele-PHONEY" Cases

Court Orders Bar All Illegal Telemarketing Activities (read more)

Weathering Hurricane Season

As the hurricane season gets underway, it's time to tap into your inner scout and "be prepared." Your preparation for weather extremes or other natural disasters of course involves securing your windows, roof, or basement, but it also requires you to organize your financial papers. (read more)

FTC Action Stops Foreclosure 'Rescue' Operation

The Federal Trade Commission has put a stop to a deceptive foreclosure "rescue" operation that charged homeowners $1,200 based on the false promise that it could save them from losing their homes. (read more)

Court Halts Job Placement Scam at FTC's Request

'Guaranteed' Jobs Never Materialized (read more)

Commission Announces New Fees for Telemarketers Accessing the National Do Not Call Registry

The FTC has announced new fees starting on October 1, 2009, for telemarketers accessing phone numbers on the National Do Not Call Registry. (read more)

Extra! Extra! FTC Announces Revised Schedule for Workshop: "From Town Criers to Bloggers: How Will Journalism Survive the Internet Age?"

The Federal Trade Commission today announced December 1 and 2, 2009, as the dates on which it will begin a series of workshops titled "From Town Criers to Bloggers: How Will Journalism Survive the Internet Age?" (read more)

FTC Releases Reports on Cigarette and Smokeless Tobacco Sales and Marketing Expenditures

The amount spent on cigarette advertising and promotion by the five largest cigarette companies in the United States declined from $13.11 billion in 2005 to $12.49 billion in 2006, according to a report released today by the Federal Trade Commission. (read more)

FTC Charges Companies with 'Bamboo-zling' Consumers with False Product Claims

Bamboo-based Textiles, Actually Made of Rayon, Are Not Antimicrobial, Made in an Environmentally Friendly Manner, or Biodegradable (read more)

Judge Upholds FTC Staff Complaint Against Marketers of Bogus Cancer Cures

An Administrative Law Judge has upheld Federal Trade Commission staff charges against a company and its officer for making deceptive claims that shark cartilage and herbal formulations prevent, treat, and cure cancer, and heal the effects of chemotherapy and radiation. (read more)

Commission Reopens Public Comment Period On the Negative Option Rule

The Commission has reopened the public comment period for the review of its Rule Concerning the Use of Prenotification Negative Option Plans at the request of an organization and state and local governments seeking additional time. (read more)

Tips for Consumers About Layaway Plans

For a long time, layaway plans have provided an alternative to paying cash or using credit. The retailer holds merchandise in reserve until the consumer pays for it in full. (read more)

Court Halts U.S. Internet Seller Deceptively Posing as U.K. Home Electronics Site

In the wake of a Federal Trade Commission complaint against a company that deceptively sold electronics to hundreds of British consumers, the company has agreed to stop its allegedly illegal tactics until the case is decided in federal court. (read more)

Live Webcast: FTC Roundtable on Protecting Consumers in Debt Collection Litigation and Arbitration

Today is the final day of a public event the Federal Trade Commission and the Searle Center on Law, Regulation, and Economic Growth at Northwestern University School of Law are hosting on consumer protection issues in debt collection proceedings. (read more)

FTC Sues Prepaid Calling Card Distributor for Deceiving Consumers

Consumers Got Fewer Calling Minutes Than Advertised, Were Charged Hidden Fees, Agency Says (read more)

Live Webcast: FTC Roundtable on Protecting Consumers in Debt Collection Litigation and Arbitration

Today and tomorrow, the Federal Trade Commission and the Searle Center on Law, Regulation, and Economic Growth at Northwestern University School of Law are hosting a public event on consumer protection issues in debt collection proceedings. (read more)

FTC Approves Final Consent Order in Matter Concerning Kellogg Company

Following a public comment period, the Commission has approved a final consent order in the matter of Kellogg Company and authorized the staff to provide responses to the commenters of record. (read more)

FTC Seeks Public Comment on Proposed Rules to Protect Consumers of Debt Relief Services

In an ongoing effort to better protect financially distressed consumers, the Federal Trade Commission is seeking public comment on proposed rules to combat deceptive and abusive telemarketing of debt relief services - services that purportedly can reduce consumers' credit card and other unsecured debt. (read more)

Court Orders Internet Pagejackers to Return Ill-Gotten Gains

Defendants Found in Contempt for Continuing Deceptive Practices (read more)

End of the Line for Financial Telemarketer Who Violated Do Not Call Rules

Court Order Imposes Five-Year Ban on Telemarketing to Consumers (read more)

Commission Seeks Public Comments on Vocational Schools Guides

The FTC is seeking public comments on its Private Vocational and Distance Education Schools Guides, commonly known as the Vocational Schools Guides, as part of its systematic review of agency guides and regulations. (read more)

FTC Testifies on Efforts to Protect Consumers in the Funeral Industry

The Federal Trade Commission today told the U.S. House Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade, and Consumer Protection of the Committee on Energy and Commerce that the FTC will work with the Subcommittee and others to explore ways to deploy the FTC's experience and resources in connection with the recent grievous events at the historic Burr Oak Cemetery in Alsip, Illinois, and in addressing consumer protection concerns regarding cemeteries. (read more)

FTC, Three States Charge Scammers with Falsely Promising "Guaranteed" $25,000 Government Grants as Part of the Economic Stimulus Package

Court Halts Operators' Deceptive Pitches for Grant Writing Book and Services (read more)

Commission Sends Consumers Refund Checks in Advance-Fee Credit Card Case

On July 15, 2009, the Federal Trade Commission sent refund checks to consumers who allegedly had been defrauded in the case of FTC v. Integrity Financial Enterprises, LLC. (read more)

FTC Testifies About Efforts to Combat Fraudulent and Deceptive Advertising

The Federal Trade Commission testified today before the U.S. Senate on its efforts to combat deceptive advertising in the face of rapid changes in health care, technology, and online marketing strategies. (read more)

Commission Reopens Public Comment Period On the Cooling Off Rule

The Commission has reopened the public comment period for the review of the "Cooling Off Rule" - formally known as the Trade Regulation Rule Concerning Cooling-Off Period for Sales Made at Homes or at Certain Other Locations - for an additional 60 days, through September 25, 2009. (read more)

Manufacturer Settles with FTC for Making Misleading Made-in-the-USA Claims

A manufacturer of magnifiers and other desktop and portable vision aids has agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that it falsely claimed its products were "Made in the U.S.A." (read more)

FTC Approves Final Consent Orders in Matters Concerning Kmart Corporation and Tender Corporation

Following a public comment period, the Commission has approved final consent orders in the matters of Kmart Corporation and Tender Corporation. (read more)

Federal and State Agencies Target Mortgage Foreclosure Rescue and Loan Modification Scams

FTC Leads "Operation Loan Lies" to Stop Fraud and Help Distressed Homeowners (read more)

Federal and State Agencies Target Mortgage Foreclosure Rescue and Loan Modification Scams

"Operation Loan Lies" Aims to Help People At Risk of Losing Their Homes (read more)

Defendants Settle with FTC in Surplus Goods Business Opportunity Scam

Scammers who duped consumers into paying a total of more than $30 million for bogus business opportunities have settled Federal Trade Commission charges that their deceptive claims violated federal law. (read more)

Rite Aid to Pay $500,000 in Consumer Refunds to Settle FTC Charges of False and Deceptive Advertising

FTC Charges Rite Aid's Cold-and-Flu Remedy Supplier with False and Deceptive Advertising in Ongoing Case (read more)

Court Bars False Claims of Affiliation with United States Homeowner Relief Programs

A U.S. district court has ordered newly named defendants to stop making deceptive claims that they are affiliated with free federal government programs, such as Making Home Affordable. (read more)

Operators of Credit Card Rate Reduction Scam Are Banned From Telemarketing

At the request of the Federal Trade Commission, a U.S. district court judge has imposed a telemarketing ban on a Canadian operation that targeted U.S. consumers with false claims that it could reduce their credit card interest rates. (read more)

Consumer Reporting Agency TALX Corp. Agrees to Settle FTC Charges

TALX Corporation, a subsidiary of Equifax Inc., has agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that it violated federal law by failing to provide certain disclosures to users of their consumer reports and to entities that provide information for consumer reports. (read more)

Court Orders Spammers to Give Up $3.7 Million

Case Against International Spam Operation is First Using US SAFE WEB Act (read more)

Debt Collectors Settle with FTC; Abusive Practices Affected Consumers Nationwide

The operators of a debt collection company that used false threats and other unlawful tactics to collect consumers' debts have agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that they violated federal law. (read more)

Agencies Issue Final Rules on Accuracy of Credit Report Information and Allowing Direct Disputes

The Federal Trade Commission today announced final rules and guidelines that will promote the accuracy and integrity of information provided to credit reporting agencies (commonly called "credit bureaus") and allow consumers to dispute inaccurate information about them directly with furnishers, the financial institutions and other entities that furnish the information to the credit reporting agencies. (read more)

FTC Cracks Down on Scammers Trying to Take Advantage of the Economic Downturn

New Public Education Video Helps Consumers Steer Clear of Business Opportunity Fraud (read more)

FTC Targets Scams Spawned by Economic Downturn

'Operation Short Change' Seeks to Protect Vulnerable Consumers (read more)

Prepaid Calling Card Distributor Agrees to Pay $1.3 Million

Settles charges that it delivered fewer calling minutes than advertised, charged consumers hidden fees, and charged for calls that never connected (read more)

FTC Targets Scams Spawned by Economic Downturn

'Operation Short Change' Seeks to Protect Vulnerable Consumers (read more)

Commission Files Amended Complaint in Federal Loan Modification Law Center Case

The FTC filed an amended complaint adding several new defendants in the action currently pending against Federal Loan Modification Law Center, LLP, and six related defendants. (read more)

FTC Urges Consumers to Report Jamaica-based Telemarketing Scams

U.S., Jamaican Authorities Target Sweepstakes, Foreign Lottery Fraud (read more)

FTC Settles with Two Defendants in Bogus Computer Scan Case

Two defendants in a case involving a massive "scareware" scheme will settle Federal Trade Commission charges of deceptive advertising and forfeit more than $100,000 in assets that were frozen last year at the Commission's request. (read more)

FTC Roundtable to Discuss Debt Collection Litigation and Arbitration; Call for Public Comments

The Federal Trade Commission and the Searle Center on Law, Regulation, and Economic Growth at Northwestern University School of Law will host a two-day public event on consumer protection issues in debt collection proceedings against individual consumers. (read more)

'Credit Repair' Operation Settles with FTC; Company Made False Claims and Charged Illegal Up-Front Fees

A federal court has ordered a credit repair operation and its principals to stop making false claims and requiring advance payment for credit repair services. (read more)

FTC Approves Final Consent Order in Matter of CVS Caremark Corporation

Following a public comment period, the Commission has approved a final consent order in the matter of CVS Caremark Corporation and authorized the staff to provide responses to the commenters of record. (read more)

FTC Stops Foreclosure Prevention Marketers Who Misrepresented Their Services and Misled Business Opportunity Buyers

At the request of the Federal Trade Commission, a federal court has halted a bogus mortgage foreclosure prevention operation that misrepresented both the "loss mitigation" services it offered and the earnings potential of the business opportunity it sold. (read more)

Churches at Risk in Bogus Opportunity Scam

FTC Issues New Consumer Alert (read more)

FTC Obtains $1.7 Million Judgment Against Payment Processor That Took Millions From Consumers' Bank Accounts Without Their Authorization

A federal court has ordered a payment processor that debited consumers' bank accounts without their authorization to pay $1,779,000 in consumer redress and to end the illegal practice. (read more)

FTC Provides Views on Behavioral Advertising to House of Representatives Subcommittees

Letter References Behavioral Advertising Report Issued in February (read more)

Constellation Brands Settles FTC Charges That Ads for 'Wide Eye' Caffeinated Alcohol Beverage Were Deceptive

A major U.S. alcohol supplier has agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that its advertising for the caffeinated alcohol drink Wide Eye was deceptive, unsubstantiated, and in violation of federal law. (read more)

FTC Announces Actions Against Kmart, Tender and Dyna-E Alleging Deceptive 'Biodegradable' Claims

Agency Testifies About Efforts to Ensure Truthfulness of Environmental Marketing Claims (read more)

FTeach Your Dad About ‘Phishing' this Father's Day

E-card Warns of Internet Phishing Scams (read more)

FTC Shuts Down Notorious Rogue Internet Service Provider, 3FN Service Specializes in Hosting Spam-Spewing Botnets, Phishing Web sites, Child Pornography, and Other Illegal, Malicious Web Content

A rogue Internet Service Provider that recruits, knowingly hosts, and actively participates in the distribution of spam, child pornography, and other harmful electronic content has been shut down by a district court judge at the request of the Federal Trade Commission. (read more)

Sears Settles FTC Charges Regarding Tracking Software

Sears Failed to Disclose Adequately that Software Collected Consumers' Sensitive Personal Information (read more)

FTC Files Joint Amicus Brief in Matter of American Needle, Inc. v. National Football League; FTC Approves Final Consent Order in Matter of Whole Foods Market

The Federal Trade Commission has joined the U.S. Department of Justice in filing an amicus brief in the U.S. Supreme Court in the matter of American Needle, Inc. v. National Football League, No. 08-661 (U.S. S. Ct.). (read more)

Don't Let Summer Fuel Costs Strain Your Budget

With summer on the way, hotter days and vacation road trips are coming up fast. Because the costs of cooling your home and filling up your car can add up, the Federal Trade Commission is offering tips to save you money. (read more)

FTC Announces "Operation False Charity" Law Enforcement Sweep

Agency Joined by 49 States in Bringing 76 Actions Against Fraudulent Solicitors Nationwide (read more)

Extra! Extra! FTC Announces Workshop: 'Can News Media Survive the Internet Age? Competition, Consumer Protection, and First Amendment Perspectives'

The Federal Trade Commission today announced it will hold a series of workshops titled "Can News Media Survive the Internet Age? Competition, Consumer Protection, and First Amendment Perspectives." The first workshop will be held on September 15, 2009. (read more)

FTC, States to Announce Initiative Targeting Phony Charity Solicitations

The Federal Trade Commission, together with dozens of state law enforcement officials, will announce "Operation False Charity," a crackdown on fraudulent telemarketers who falsely claim to be soliciting money on behalf of police, firefighters, and veterans charities, at a press conference at FTC Headquarters Wednesday, May 20, 2009 at 11 a.m. (read more)

FTC Obtains Court Order Halting Deceptive Mortgage Relief Internet Ads; Marketers Falsely Claimed to Operate MakingHomeAffordable.gov

At the Federal Trade Commission's request, a federal district court issued an order to stop an Internet-based operation that pretends to operate "MakingHomeAffordable.gov," the official Web site of the federal Making Home Affordable program for free mortgage loan assistance. (read more)

FTC to Host Debt Collection Litigation and Arbitration Roundtable

The Federal Trade Commission and the Searle Center on Law, Regulation, and Economic Growth at Northwestern University School of Law will host a two-day public event, "Protecting Consumers in Debt Collection Litigation and Arbitration: A Roundtable Discussion," in Chicago, Illinois, on August 5 and 6, 2009 (read more)

Judge Orders Halt to Illegal Robocalls Selling Deceptive Warranties

Today Judge John F. Grady of the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois issued a temporary restraining order stopping telemarketing company Voice Touch, Inc., its principals James and Maureen Dunne, its business partner Network Foundations LLC, and Network Foundations principal Damian Kohlfeld from making any further calls in violation of the Do Not Call Registry and other provisions of the Telemarketing Sales Rule and the FTC Act. (read more)

FTC Files Suit to Stop Illegal Robocalls Pushing Vehicle "Warranty" Extensions

Companies Charged With Making Hundreds of Millions of Deceptive Calls to Consumers (read more)

FTC Announces Suits Challenging Robo Callers and "Warranty" Marketers

The Federal Trade Commission will hold a telephone press availability on Thursday, May 14, 2009 at 1:00 p.m. EST to announce federal lawsuits filed today challenging an operation that made hundreds of millions of robocalls to promote an operation that sold bogus auto warranties. (read more)

FTC Warns Internet Peddlers that Potentially Bogus H1N1 Influenza Products May Violate Federal Law

The Federal Trade Commission has warned Web site operators who made claims that their products can prevent, treat, or cure the Influenza A/H1N1 virus, commonly known as swine flu, that they must have scientific proof to support their claims. (read more)

Spotting Signs of a Rental Scam

Consumers in search of an apartment or house to rent often rely on online rental listings in order to find the right place, especially if they're looking in another city or state. (read more)

FTC Helps Entities That Have Low Risk of Identity Theft Comply With "Red Flags" Rule

To help entities that have a low risk of identity theft - such as businesses that know their customers personally - the Federal Trade Commission has created a template that guides such businesses and organizations in developing written identity theft prevention programs to comply with the Red Flags Rule. (read more)

FTC Testifies on Efforts to Protect Consumers of Financial Services

The Federal Trade Commission today told the U.S. House Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade, and Consumer Protection of the Committee on Energy and Commerce that, in response to the current economic crisis, the FTC has substantially increased its law enforcement efforts to protect consumers of financial services. (read more)

FTC Approves Final Consent Order in Matter of Native Essence Herb Company

Commission Approval of Final Consent Order: Following a public comment period, the Commission has approved a final consent order in the matter of Native Essence Herb Company. (read more)

FTC Testifies on Data Security, Peer-to-Peer File Sharing

Announces Settlement of Case Against Mortgage Lender That Allegedly Failed to Safeguard Consumer Information (read more)

Mortgage Foreclosure 'Rescue' Defendants Settle FTC Charges for Deceiving Homeowners

Two individuals who lured homeowners into high-cost, short-term loans secured by an additional mortgage on their homes have settled FTC charges that they violated federal law - and a previous court order against them. (read more)

FYI: FTC Staff Advises Louisiana Legislature That Bill Would Restrict Competition to Provide Dental Care to the State's Underserved Children

FTC Staff Advises Louisiana Legislature That Bill Would Restrict Competition to Provide Dental Care to the State's Underserved Children (read more)

FDA, FTC Warn Public of Fraudulent 2009 H1N1 Influenza Products

Offending Web Sites and Illegal Activity Targeted for Action (read more)

Commission Submits Comment to FERC on Competitive Assessments of Partial Acquisitions: Careful, Case-by-Case Analysis Encouraged

The FTC has submitted a comment to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) concerning FERC's competitive assessments of partial acquisitions of electric power providers, including by private equity firms holding investments in competing electric power providers (Docket No. PL09-3-000). (read more)

FTC Seeks Public Comments on Petition to Modify 2004 Order Regarding AOL and CompuServe to Allow the Use of Third-Party Verification for Consumer Consent

The Federal Trade Commission is seeking public comment on a petition from America Online, Inc. and CompuServe Interactive Services, Inc. to reopen and modify a January 2004 final FTC Order concerning the two companies. (read more)

Tell Mom You Care About Keeping Her Personal Information Safe Online

Mom has given out lots of good advice over the years. On Mother's Day, let her know you're looking out for her, too. (read more)

FTC Will Grant Three-Month Delay of Enforcement of 'Red Flags' Rule Requiring Creditors and Financial Institutions to Adopt Identity Theft Prevention Programs

The Federal Trade Commission will delay enforcement of the new "Red Flags Rule" until August 1, 2009, to give creditors and financial institutions more time to develop and implement written identity theft prevention programs. (read more)

FTC Issues Final Rules Amending Parts 3 and 4 of the Agency's Rules of Practice

The Federal Trade Commission today adopted as final the interim rules amending Parts 3 and 4 of the agency's Rules of Practice that were announced last December, and also further amended several rules and eliminated one. (read more)

FTC Charges Marketers of 'Hoodia' Weight Loss Supplements With Deceptive Advertising

The Federal Trade Commission has charged the suppliers of supposed Hoodia gordonii, also known as hoodia, with deceptive advertising for claiming that using their product would lead to weight loss and appetite suppression. (read more)

FTC Concludes Case Against Marketers of Xenadrine EFX; Court Ruling Requires Final Defendant to Accept Settlement Terms

The Federal Trade Commission's case against the marketers of Xenadrine EFX, a purported weight-loss product, has ended, with the final defendant in the case settling charges of false and unsubstantiated advertising. (read more)

Commission Reopens Public Comment Period On Used Car Rule; Commission Approves Amended Complaint in Matter of Group One Networks, Inc.; Commission Proposes Amendments to Fuel Economy Guide; Joint FTC/DOJ Comment Says Supreme Court of Hawaii's Draft Rule on the Unauthorized Practice of Law Would Unduly Restrict Activities of Non-lawyers

The Commission has reopened the public comment period for the regulatory review of the Used Motor Vehicle Trade Regulation Rule (Used Car Rule) through June 10, 2009. The Commission has approved an amended complaint that adds a new defendant and charges in the action currently pending against Group One Networks, Inc. The Commission has proposed amendments to the agency's Guide Concerning Fuel Economy Advertising for New Automobiles (the Fuel Economy Guide) (16 C.F.R. Part 259). In a comment jointly filed with the Supreme Court of Hawaii, the Federal Trade Commission and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) advised that a proposed rule concerning the practice of law could unduly restrict the activities of non-lawyers in Hawaii. (read more)

FTC to Hold Public Workshop on Proposed Business Opportunity Rule Changes

TThe Federal Trade Commission will hold a day-long public workshop on June 1, 2009 in Washington, DC, to explore proposed changes to the FTC's Business Opportunity Rule. (read more)

Kellogg Settles FTC Charges That Ads for Frosted Mini-Wheats Were False

Kellogg Company, the world's leading producer of cereal, has agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that advertising claims touting a breakfast of Frosted Mini-Wheats as "clinically shown to improve kids' attentiveness by nearly 20%" were false and violated federal law. (read more)

Commission Approves Federal Register Notice Seeking Comments on Cooling-Off Rule

The Commission has approved a Federal Register notice seeking public comments on the costs and benefits of the agency's Cooling-Off Rule, as part of its systematic review of its rules and guides.; Following a public comment period, the Commission has approved a final consent order in the matter of American Telecom Services, Inc. (read more)

DIRECTV, Comcast to Pay Total of $3.21 Million for Entity-Specific Do Not Call Violations

DIRECTV to Pay $2.31 Million for Violating Telemarketing Sales Rule; Comcast to Pay $900,000 for Calling Consumers Who Asked Not to be Called Again (read more)

FTC Publishes Proposed Breach Notification Rule for Electronic Health Information

The Federal Trade Commission today announced that it has approved a Federal Register notice seeking public comment on a proposed rule that would require entities to notify consumers when the security of their electronic health information is breached. (read more)

SEC Issues GLB Model Privacy Form Test Data

The Federal Trade Commission announced today a Federal Register notice describing quantitative consumer testing of a model privacy form developed as part of a Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLB) interagency notice project. (read more)

FTC Chairman Jon Leibowitz Appoints Senior Staff

Federal Trade Commission Chairman Jon Leibowitz has appointed six senior staff members with extensive experience in the private sector, in the public interest community, in academia, and in government. (read more)

Court Halts Counterfeit Check and Prize Scam

Order Includes $1 Million Judgment Against Operators (read more)

FTC, Fordham Law School's Center on Law and Information Policy, New York Consumer Protection Agencies to Host Free Workshop for Business on April 29

Event Emphasizes Securing Personal Information, Complying with Red Flags Rule (read more)

Federal and State Agencies Crack Down on Mortgage Modification and Foreclosure Rescue Scams

FTC, State Enforcers Sue Scammers, Warn Others; Announce Education Campaign Designed to Reach Borrowers Directly (read more)

Federal, State Partners Announce Multi-Agency Crackdown Targeting Foreclosure Rescue Scams, Loan Modification Fraud

Civil Enforcement Cases, State Enforcement Actions, Alert to Financial Institutions Among New Efforts to Protect American Homeowners Seeking Relief (read more)

FTC Offers 'Red Flags' Web Site To Help Creditors and Financial Institutions Design Identity Theft Prevention Programs

The Federal Trade Commission has launched a Web site to help entities covered by the Red Flags Rule design and implement identity theft prevention programs. (read more)

Telemarketers Settle Charges of Misleading Consumers with "Free" Product Pitches

Defendants Claimed to be Calling on Behalf of a Major Retailer or Credit Card Company (read more)

New FTC Web Site Helps Consumers Cope With Tough Economic Times

Provides Advice on Debt, Employment, and Avoiding Scams (read more)

Chairman Issues Commission's Annual Report at ABA Spring Meeting

In Tough Economic Times, FTC Focused on Financial Services, Health Care, Energy, Privacy, Technology (read more)

FTC Charges Dish Network, Formerly Known as EchoStar, with Multiple Do Not Call Violations

Four State Attorney Generals Join Commission's Case Against Satellite TV Firm (read more)

Court Halts Bogus Mortgage Loan Modification Operations

Two Firms Falsely Claimed to be Affiliated with Non-Profit HOPE NOW Alliance (read more)

FTC Approves Federal Register Notice Establishing New Fiber Name and Definition; Commission Approves Final Consent Order in Matter of Genica Corporation

The FTC has approved the publication of a Federal Register notice amending Commission Rule 7(c) of the Rules and Regulations under the Textile Fiber Products Identification Act, commonly known as the Textile Rules, to establish a new generic fiber subclass name and definition. (read more)

QVC to Pay $7.5 Million to Settle Charges that It Aired Deceptive Claims

QVC, Inc., a TV home shopping channel and one of the world's largest multimedia retailers, has agreed to pay $7.5 million to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that it made false and unsubstantiated claims about three types of dietary supplements in violation of an FTC order, and about an anti-cellulite skin cream in violation of the FTC Act. (read more)

Undercover Inspections of Funeral Homes in Seven States Ensure that Consumers Receive Price Lists Required by Law

Federal investigators working undercover in seven states during 2008 found significant violations of the Funeral Rule at 26 of 104 funeral homes visited. (read more)

FTC Charges Seven Credit Repair Companies with Deceiving Consumers Throughout the U.S.

The Federal Trade Commission has charged seven related companies with violating federal law by falsely promising to remove negative information from consumers' credit reports, even information that is accurate and current, and by charging an up-front fee and failing to provide written disclosures. (read more)

FTC Order Bars Firm From Failing to Provide Timely Rebates

A company that sold telephones and telephone services through retailers nationwide has been barred from failing to provide the rebates it promised to consumers in a timely manner. (read more)

FTC Releases Spoof Videos with a Serious Message: AnnualCreditReport.com is the Only Authorized Source for Free Annual Credit Reports

Despite the musical claims of some TV commercials, the only authorized source to get your free annual credit report under federal law is AnnualCreditReport.com. Click here to view videos. (read more)

FTC Approves Federal Register Notice Regarding Possible Energy Labeling for Televisions and Other Consumer Electronic Products

The FTC has approved an advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPR) under the Appliance Labeling Rule for publication in the Federal Register. (read more)

FTC Announces Speakers for Conference on Securing Personal Data in the Global Economy

APEC, OECD are Co-Sponsors; Event to be held March 16-17, 2009 (read more)

FTC Releases Spoof Videos with a Serious Message: AnnualCreditReport.com is the Only Authorized Source for Free Annual Credit Reports

To reinforce the message that the only authorized source for free annual credit reports under federal law is AnnualCreditReport.com, the Federal Trade Commission is offering two new videos (read more)

Consumer Reporting Agency Settles FTC Charges: Sold Tenant Screening Reports to Identity Thieves

A consumer reporting agency that failed to properly screen prospective customers and, as a result, sold at least 318 credit reports to identity thieves, has agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that it violated federal law. (read more)

Courts Bar Firms from Making Deceptive Claims for Home Insulation Products

Sellers Greatly Exaggerated Their Products' Effectiveness (read more)

FTC, Fordham Law School's Center on Law and Information Policy, New York Consumer Protection Agencies to Host Free Workshop for Business on April 29

Event Emphasizes Securing Personal Information, Complying with Red Flags Rule (read more)

FTC Testifies on Protecting Consumers in the Used Car Market

The Federal Trade Commission today outlined the biggest challenges facing consumer protection agencies in the used car market in testimony before the U.S. House Committee on Energy and Commerce, Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade and Consumer Protection. (read more)

FTC Offers Online Credit Card Calculator

The Federal Trade Commission has posted on its Web site a calculator that gives consumers an estimate of how long it will take them to pay off their credit card balance. (read more)

Jon Leibowitz Named Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission

President Barack Obama designated Jon Leibowitz as Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission by a White House Order dated March 2, 2009. (read more)

Protect Your Kids' Privacy Online

To help parents better understand their childrens' online privacy rights, the Federal Trade Commission has developed a new article, Protecting Kids' Privacy. (read more)

Economic Stimulus Scams

PRESS CONFERENCE to unveil bogus Web sites and other scams claiming they can help individual consumers qualify for a share of stimulus package money. (read more)

Virtual Worlds and Kids: Mapping the Risks

Virtual worlds - online "places" where people use graphic characters known as avatars to represent themselves - can expose children and teenagers to inappropriate activity or violence. (read more)

FTC Releases List of Top Consumer Complaints in 2008

The Federal Trade Commission today released the list of top consumer complaints received by the agency in 2008 (read more)

FTC Report Urges Reform and Modernization of Federal Debt Collection Law; Agency Also Issues Annual FDCPA Report to Congress

The Federal Trade Commission issued a report today recommending that the debt collection legal system be reformed and modernized to reflect changes in consumer debt, the debt collection industry, and technology. (read more)

FTC Obtains Court Order Halting Internet Payday Lenders Who Failed to Disclose Key Loan Terms and Used Abusive and Deceptive Collection Tactics

In a case filed by the Federal Trade Commission and the State of Nevada, a federal court has ordered a halt to certain practices by seven U.S.-based companies and an individual operating as part of an international Internet payday lending operation. (read more)

Commission Rescinds Enforcement Policy Regarding the Advertising of Books; Commission Approves Final Consent Orders in Matters of West Penn Multi-List, Inc.; Good Life Funding; American Nationwide Mortgage Company, Inc.; and Innova Financial Group

The Commission has approved the publication of a notice in the Federal Register rescinding the agency's enforcement policy for advertising of books, also known as the Mirror Image Doctrine (MID). Following a public comment period, the Commission has approved a final consent order in the matter of West Penn Multi-List, Inc. (read more)

FTC to Host Ad It Up! Kids in a Commercial World

Forum Examines Advertising Literacy (read more)

CVS Caremark Settles FTC Charges: Failed to Protect Medical and Financial Privacy of Customers and Employees; CVS Pharmacy Also Pays $2.25 Million to Settle Allegations of HIPAA Violations

CVS Caremark has agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that it failed to take reasonable and appropriate security measures to protect the sensitive financial and medical information of its customers and employees, in violation of federal law. (read more)

Court Bars Global Marketing Group from Payment Processing

Defendants Assisted in Nine Cross-Border Telemarketing Scams Targeting U.S. Consumers (read more)

Eleventh Annual National Consumer Protection Week: FTC, Co-sponsors Provide Tools for Navigating Today's Economy

Event Takes Place March 1-7, 2009 (read more)

FTC Staff Revises Online Behavioral Advertising Principles

Federal Trade Commission staff today issued a report describing its ongoing examination of online behavioral advertising and setting forth revisions to proposed principles to govern self-regulatory efforts in this area. (read more)

FTC Sues Mortgage Foreclosure "Rescue" Operation

In a case that affects consumers throughout the nation, the Federal Trade Commission has charged a mortgage foreclosure "rescue" company with falsely claiming that it will stop foreclosure or fully refund consumers' money. (read more)

FTC Approves Amended Complaint in Matter of Publishers Business Services; Hexion LLC and Huntsman Corp. Petition Commission to Reopen and Set Aside Orders; Extension of Public Comment Period Related to Digital Rights Management Town Hall; Commission Approves Final Consent Order in Matter of Teva Pharmaceutical Industries/Barr Pharmaceuticals

The Commission has approved an amended complaint in the matter currently pending against defendants Publishers Business Services, Inc., and Ed Dantuma Enterprises, Inc., also d/b/a Publishers Direct Services and Publishers Business Services. Hexion LLC and Huntsman Corporation (Respondents) have petitioned the Commission to reopen and set aside two orders related to their proposed merger because they have terminated their planned merger and withdrawn their premerger notification filings (read more)

Companies Agree to Pay $2.25 Million as Part of FTC Crackdown on Fraud in the Prepaid Calling Card Industry

Major prepaid calling card companies have agreed to pay $2.25 million as part of a settlement to resolve Federal Trade Commission charges that they made false claims to consumers about the number of minutes of talk time their prepaid calling cards would provide. (read more)

Court Orders Permanent Halt to Illegal Qchex Check Processing Operation; Court Finds Qchex' Unfair Practices Created a "Dinner Bell" for Fraudsters; Operators to Give Up All Their Ill-Gotten Gains

At the request of the Federal Trade Commission, a United States District Court has ordered a permanent halt to the illegal operations of an Internet-based check creation and delivery service and ordered the operators to give up all the money they made from the illegal operation. (read more)

FTC Targets Weight-Loss Marketers' Allegedly Bogus 'Free' Sample Offers

New FTC Staff Report Offers Guidance on Online 'Negative Option' Marketing (read more)

Consumer Electronics Company Agrees to Settle Data Security Charges; Breach Compromised Data of Hundreds of Consumers

An online seller of computer supplies and other consumer electronics has agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that it violated federal law by failing to provide reasonable security to protect sensitive customer data. (read more)

FTC Sues Promoters of Bogus Fuel Efficiency Device

Ads Appeared in Major Magazines Promising to Turn Any Car Into a Hybrid (read more)

Bureau of Consumer Protection Deputy Director Richards To Leave FTC

Federal Trade Commission Chairman William E. Kovacic announced today that Mary Beth Richards, Deputy Director of the Bureau of Consumer Protection, will leave the agency to return to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and that Mary K. Engle, currently Associate Director in the Bureau's Division of Advertising Practices, will serve as Acting Deputy Director. (read more)

FTC Charges Marketers of Kinoki Foot Pads With Deceptive Advertising; Seeks Funds for Consumer Redress

The Federal Trade Commission has charged the marketers of Kinoki Foot Pads with deceptive advertising, including claims that use of the foot pads would remove toxins from the body; treat high blood pressure, depression, and a host of other medical conditions; and lead to weight loss. (read more)

FTC Cracks Down on Do Not Call Violators: Companies Agree to Pay Almost $1.2 Million in Civil Penalties

Two Groups of Travel Companies Called Numbers on the National Registry (read more)

FTC Extends Comment and Submission Periods Related to Digital Rights Management Town Hall to February 9, 2009; FTC Issues Annual Financial Acts Enforcement Report to Federal Reserve; FTC Withdraws Federal Register Notice on Proposed Rule Regarding Depository Institution Disclosure Requirements for Further Review; Commission Approves Final Consent Order in Matter of Inverness Medical Innovations/ACON

FTC Extends Comment and Submission Periods Related to Digital Rights Management Town Hall to February 9, 2009; FTC Issues Annual Financial Acts Enforcement Report to Federal Reserve (read more)

FTC Obtains $250,000 Settlement Against Participant in Vending Machine Scheme

The Federal Trade Commission obtained a $250,000 settlement against a participant in a vending machine scheme, concluding its case against the defendants in this operation, all of whom were charged in 2002 as part of the Project Busted Opportunity law enforcement sweep. (read more)

FTC Launches Redress Program for Mortgage Loan Victims

Almost $28 Million Returned to 86,000 Consumers Harmed by Mortgage Servicing Practices (read more)

FTC to Host Advertising Literacy Forum; Workshop Examines Kids in a Commercial World

The Federal Trade Commission staff will host a workshop on March 12, 2009 to gather input for its advertising literacy initiative, which will educate and empower tweens to be better informed consumers of information. (read more)

FTC Says Mortgage Broker Broke Data Security Laws: Dumpster Wrong Place for Consumers' Personal Information

The Federal Trade Commission has charged a mortgage broker with discarding consumers' tax returns, credit reports, and other sensitive personal and financial information in an unsecured dumpster, in violation of federal law. (read more)

Court Rules in Favor of FTC in National Urological Group Case; Orders Marketers of Thermalean, Lipodrene, and Spontane-ES to Pay More Than $15 Million

A federal district court has ordered the marketers of three dietary supplements to pay more than $15 million for deceiving consumers about the products' safety and effectiveness. (read more)

Judge Orders Kevin Trudeau to Pay More Than $37 Million for False Claims About Weight-Loss Book

A federal judge has ordered infomercial marketer Kevin Trudeau to pay more than $37 million for violating a 2004 stipulated order by misrepresenting the content of his book, "The Weight Loss Cure 'They' Don't Want You to Know About." (read more)

Marketers of 'Ab Force' Weight Loss Device Agree to Pay $7 Million for Consumer Redress

Marketers who made false and deceptive claims that a device would cause consumers to lose weight by applying electronic stimulation to their abdominal muscles have agreed to pay $7 million to settle an action brought by the Federal Trade Commission to obtain consumer redress. (read more)

FTC Announces Agenda for Conference on Securing Personal Data in the Global Economy

APEC, OECD are Co-Sponsors; Event to be held March 16-17, 2009 (read more)

Suntasia Marketing Defendants Pay More Than $16 Million to Settle FTC Charges

Massive Telemarketing Scheme Affected Nearly One Million Consumers Nationwide; Wachovia Bank to Provide An Additional $33 Million to Suntasia Victims (read more)

FTC Urges Consumers to Cash Restitution Checks Mailed by Wachovia Bank

Checks Sent to More Than 740,000 Telemarketing Fraud Victims (read more)

Bureau of Consumer Protection Director Parnes To Leave FTC

Eileen Harrington Named Acting Director (read more)

FTC Charges Indiana Firm with Failing to Live Up to Rebate Promises

Terms of Proposed Settlement are Among Strongest Ever in an FTC Rebate Case (read more)

Three Home Loan Advertisers Settle FTC Charges; Failed to Disclose Key Loan Terms in Ads

Three mortgage loan advertisers that allegedly deceptively touted low monthly payments and low rates without fully disclosing loan terms have agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that their ads violated federal law. (read more)

Mortgage Foreclosure "Rescue" Operators Settle with FTC

A mortgage foreclosure rescue service that claimed that, for a $1,200 fee, they would stop foreclosure and save consumers' homes, has agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that it violated federal law. (read more)

FTC Issues Interim Final Rules Amending Parts 3 and 4 of its Rules of Practice; Rules are Designed to Expedite and Streamline the Entire Part 3 Proceeding

Commission Seeks Further Comments on Changes to the Adjudicative Proceedings Process (read more)

FTC Town Hall to Address Digital Rights Management Technologies

Event Takes Place Wednesday, March 25, 2009, in Seattle (read more)

FTC Files Comment with Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission About Retail Electricity Pricing and Customer Participation

The FTC has approved the filing of a comment with the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PA PUC) concerning the PA PUC's implementation plan for its Energy Efficiency and Conservation Program. (read more)

FTC Settles Charges with Telemarketers Who Duped Elderly Consumers

Said Money Donated Would Benefit the Handicapped and Disabled (read more)

Commission Approves Final Consent Order in Matter of Premier Capital Lending, Inc.

Following a public comment period, the Commission has approved a final consent order in the matter of Premier Capital Lending, Inc. (read more)

FTC Approves Federal Register Notice Announcing Increase in the Ceiling on Allowable Charges Required By Section 612(f) of the Fair Credit Reporting Act

The Federal Trade Commission has approved the publication of a Federal Register notice announcing that the ceiling on allowable charges under Section 612(f) of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) will increase from $10.50 to $11.00, effective January 1, 2009. (read more)

Getting Rid of Your Old Computer?

Computers are a popular gift during the holiday season. People with a new computer often wonder about the best way to get rid of the old one. OnGuardOnline.gov, the computer safety Web site managed by the Federal Trade Commission, has some tips to make this task easier - and more secure. (read more)

Sony BMG Music Settles Charges Its Music Fan Websites Violated the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act

Company Will Pay $1 Million Civil Penalty (read more)

"Operation Tele-PHONEY" Defendant Settles Commission Charges

Advance-Fee Telemarketer Prohibited from Misrepresenting Material Facts to Consumers (read more)

Court Halts Bogus Computer Scans

At the request of the Federal Trade Commission, a U.S. district court has issued a temporary halt to a massive "scareware" scheme, which falsely claimed that scans had detected viruses, spyware, and illegal pornography on consumers' computers. (read more)

FTC Announces Conference on International Aspects of Securing Personal Data

APEC, OECD are Co-Sponsors; Event to be held March 16-17, 2009 (read more)

Marketers of Mystery Shopper Scam Settle with FTC; Agree to Pay $850,000

An operation that lured consumers with promises that they could earn big money as trained and certified "mystery shoppers" has agreed to pay $850,000 to settle charges of deceptive marketing and contempt. (read more)

Cross-Border Telemarketers Barred From Deceptive Phone Card Pitches

Court Order Also Prohibits Violations of Do Not Call Registry Rules (read more)

Internet Marketers of Dietary Supplement for Weight Loss Agree to Pay $150,000

A Utah-based operation that lured online customers with free samples of a purported weight-loss supplement in a scheme to obtain their credit or debit card information has agreed to pay $150,000 to settle Federal Trade Commission charges of deceptive and unfair marketing, and of violations of federal regulations governing the electronic transfer of funds. (read more)

New Rules Requiring an Automated Voice or Keypress Opt-Out for Recorded Message Telemarketing Calls Take Effect Today

Effective today, any telemarketing call that delivers a prerecorded message must include a quick and easy way to opt-out of receiving future calls. (read more)

FTC Rescinds Guidance from 1966 on Statements Concerning Tar and Nicotine Yields

The Federal Trade Commission has rescinded guidance issued in 1966 that generally permitted statements concerning tar and nicotine yields if they were based on the Cambridge Filter Method, sometimes called the FTC method. (read more)

Ripoff Artists Target Grandparents

Complaints are on the rise about a scam that preys on a grandparent's love, according to the Federal Trade Commission. (read more)

FTC Charges Internet Payday Lenders with Failing to Disclose Key Loan Terms and Using Abusive and Deceptive Collection Tactics

The Federal Trade Commission and the State of Nevada have charged 10 related Internet payday lenders and their principals, based mainly in the United Kingdom, with violating federal and state law by not disclosing key loan terms to U.S. consumers and using abusive and deceptive collection tactics. (read more)

Marketers of Dietary Supplements Ordered to Halt False Claims About Diabetes Prevention and Treatment

The marketers of dietary supplements that purportedly prevented and treated diabetes have settled Federal Trade Commission charges that they engaged in deceptive advertising practices. (read more)

Mortgage Company Settles Data Security Charges

Data Breach Compromised Privacy of Hundreds of Consumers (read more)

FTC Denies Requests to Extend Time Period for Seeking Comments on Proposed Amendments to its Rules of Practice Regarding Adjudicative Proceedings

The Federal Trade Commission today denied requests that the Commission extend the time within which public comments can be filed on proposed revisions to Parts 3 and 4 of the agency's Rules of Practice governing administrative litigation before the Commission. (read more)

FTC Launches New Web Site for Kids

www.ftc.gov/YouAreHere Teaches Key Concepts (read more)

Commission Approves Final Consent Order with Bioque Technologies, Inc.

Commission Approves Final Consent Orders with Bioque Technologies, Inc., Holly A. Bacon d/b/a Cleansing Time Pro, and Daryl C. Jenks d/b/a Premium Essiac Tea 4less (read more)

Halloween Shoppers Beware - Even Cosmetic Contact Lenses Require Prescriptions

The Halloween season spells big business for the cosmetic contact lens industry, as consumers shop for just the right lenses to play the part of a mummy or vampire, or to change the color of their eyes for the evening. (read more)

FTC, Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law to Host Workshop for Businesses on Best Practices for Protecting Personal Information and Securing Data

The Federal Trade Commission and the Southern Methodist University (SMU) Dedman School of Law will host a half-day public workshop in Dallas on Thursday, Nov 13, 2008, on how businesses can better secure personal information and protect the privacy of consumers and employees. (read more)

Exploiting the FTC Name, Scammers Promise Phony Sweepstakes Prizes

In their latest effort to defraud the public, con artists claiming to work for the Federal Trade Commission are calling consumers and claiming that they have won a lottery or sweepstakes. (read more)

Medical Identity Theft Town Hall Today at FTC Conference Center in Washington, DC

Today, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology is hosting a Town Hall meeting on medical identity theft at the Federal Trade Commission's satellite building in Washington, DC. (read more)

FTC Shuts Down, Freezes Assets of Vast International Spam E-Mail Network

A U.S. district court has ordered a halt to the operations of a vast international spam network that peddled prescription drugs and bogus male-enhancement products. (read more)

Commission Announces Final U.S. Roundtable on 'FTC at 100: Into Our Second Century'

Event to be Held at Fordham University School of Law on Oct 24, 2008 (read more)

Commission Announces Third U.S. Roundtable on 'FTC at 100: Into Our Second Century'

Event to be Held at Boston University School of Management on Oct 14, 2008 (read more)

Consumers Warned to Avoid Fake E-mails Tied to Bank Mergers

Online scammers are taking advantage of tough economic times. (read more)

FTC's Joel Winston Earns Presidential Rank Award

The Federal Trade Commission announced today that Joel Winston, Associate Director for Privacy and Identity Protection in the agency's Bureau of Consumer Protection, has received the 2008 Presidential Rank Award of Meritorious Executive. (read more)

FTC to Host "Fraud Forum"

The Federal Trade Commission will host a free two-day Fraud Forum on February 25 and 26, 2009, in Washington, DC. (read more)

Advance-Fee Credit Card Telemarketers to Turn Over $1 Million for Consumer Redress.

Settlement is First Resulting from Cases Brought in 'Operation Tele-PHONEY' Sweep (read more)

FTC's 'Operation False Cures' Targets Peddlers of Bogus Cancer Remedies

Commission Launches Public Education Campaign (read more)

FTC's 'Operation False Cures' Targets Peddlers of Bogus Cancer Remedies

Commission Launches Public Education Campaign (read more)

FTC Obtains Court Order Against Husband-Wife Credit Repair Team

The Federal Trade Commission charged two credit repair marketers with violating federal law by collecting advance payment for credit repair services and falsely promising to remove derogatory information from consumers' credit reports - even if the information is accurate and not obsolete. (read more)

Commission Approves Final Consent Order in the Matter of We Give Loans, Inc.; FTC Approves Final Consent Order in the Matter of American Advance.com

Commission approval of final consent orders - Following a public comment period, the Commission has approved the issuance of a final consent order in the matter concerning We Give Loans, Inc., and Aliyah Associates LLC, d/b/a AmericanAdvance.com. (read more)

Commission Announces Next U.S. Roundtable on 'FTC at 100: Into Our Second Century'

Event to be Held at Northwestern University School of Law on Sep 25, 2008 (read more)

FTC Announces Workshop and Roundtable on Emerging Health Care Competition and Consumer Protection Issues

Events to be Held in Washington, DC, This Fall; Public Comments Solicited (read more)

FTC Acts Against Scammers Who Marketed Envelope-Stuffing Schemes to Spanish-Speaking Consumers Across The Nation

The Federal Trade Commission has charged the marketer of a work-at-home business opportunity with violating federal law by falsely promising Spanish-speaking consumers substantial income for stuffing envelopes. (read more)

Brothers Will Give Up Cash and Cars to Settle FTC Charges That Earnings Claims for Their 'Money-Making Secrets' Misled Consumers

Two brothers have agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that they misled consumers with false earnings claims for work-at-home schemes involving free government grants, mystery shopping, online surveys, and data entry. (read more)

FTC to Host Workshop to Explore Consumer Protection and Privacy Implications of Radio Frequency Identification Applications

TThe Federal Trade Commission will host a "Transatlantic RFID Workshop on Consumer Privacy and Data Security" on Sep 23, 2008, to explore emerging applications of radio frequency identification technology and their implications for consumer protection policy. (read more)

Public Affairs Director Nancy Ness Judy to Leave FTC

Claudia Bourne Farrell Named Acting Director; Peter Kaplan Named Deputy Director (read more)

FTC Issues Final Telemarketing Sales Rule Amendments Regarding Prerecorded Calls

Rule Will Halt Prerecorded Sales Calls Unless the Seller Obtains Consumer's Permission (read more)

Commission Approves Amended Complaint in Matter of Select Management Solutions; FTC Approves Final Consent Order in Matter of Flow International/OMAX

Commission approval of amended complaint - The Commission has authorized the staff to file an amended complaint in the ongoing litigation against Select Personnel Management, Inc., d/b/a Select Management Solutions, and its principal James Stewart and Flow International Corporation and OMAX Corporation. (read more)

FTC Approves Amended Complaint in Matter of Internet Listing Service Corp., et al.; Commission Approves Amended Complaint in Matter of Med Provisions

Commission approval of amended complaints - The Commission has authorized the staff to file an amended complaint in the ongoing litigation against Data Business Solutions Inc., also doing business as Internet Listing Service Corp., ILS Corp., ILSCORP.NET, Domain Listing Service Corp., DLS Corp., and DLSCORP.NET, and its principals Ari Balabanian, Isaac Benlolo, and Kirk Mulveney. (read more)

Oregano Supplement Marketers Agree to Pay $2.5 Million to Settle FTC Charges for False Advertising Claims

The Federal Trade Commission will announce a multi-million dollar consumer redress settlement against the maker of a well known natural remedy. (read more)

Oregano Supplement Marketers Agree to Pay $2.5 Million to Settle FTC Charges for False Advertising Claims

The marketers of a line of dietary supplements have agreed to pay $2.5 million to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that claims about their oregano oil and capsules were false and unsubstantiated in violation of federal law. (read more)

FTC Cautions Consumers About Voter Registration Scams

Have you received an unsolicited e-mail or phone call from someone who claims to represent your local election board or civic group and asks for your Social Security or credit card number to confirm your eligibility or registration to vote? (read more)

Federal Trade Commission Creates Information Line for Customers Serviced by Express Consolidation, Inc.

The Federal Trade Commission has created an information line for customers who purchased debt-consolidation services from Express Consolidation, Inc., Randall L. Leshin, and Debt Management Counseling Center (also known as Randall L. Leshin, P.A.). (read more)

FTC Report Sheds New Light on Food Marketing to Children and Adolescents

The Federal Trade Commission today announced the results of a study on food marketing to children and adolescents. (read more)

FTC Press Briefing to Discuss Report on Food Marketing To Children

The Federal Trade Commission will release a report examining industry expenditures in marketing food and beverages to children and adolescents. (read more)

FTC Approves Federal Register Notice Extending Comment Period on Current Cigarette Test Method

Commission approval of Federal Register notice - The Commission has approved a Federal Register notice announcing a one-month extension of the public comment period related to its proposal to rescind guidance concerning the current cigarette testing method. (read more)

Commission Posts Agenda for Roundtable on 'FTC at 100: Into Our Second Century'

First Public Meeting Scheduled for Jul 29-30, 2008, in Washington, DC (read more)

FTC, California Office of Privacy Protection to Co-Host Workshop for Businesses on Best Practices for Protecting Personal Information and Securing Data

The Federal Trade Commission and the California Office of Privacy Protection will co-host a half-day public workshop in Los Angeles on Wednesday, Aug 13, 2008, on how businesses can secure personal information and protect the privacy of consumers and employees. (read more)

Commission Denies Petition Regarding Use of Term "Cultured" to Describe Laboratory-created Gemstones; Commission Approves Federal Register Notice Regarding Fees to Access the National Do Not Call Registry

TCommission denial of petition from jewelry industry trade associations - The Commission has denied a petition submitted by the Jewelers Vigilance Committee (JVC) and 10 other jewelry industry trade associations requesting that the FTC amend the Guides for the Jewelry, Precious Metals, and Pewter Industries (Guides), 16 C.F.R. Part 23. (read more)

FTC, University of Washington School of Law Clinic to Host Town Hall Meeting to Explore Contactless Payment

The Federal Trade Commission and the Technology Law and Public Policy Clinic at the University of Washington School of Law will co-host a day-long Town Hall meeting on the campus of the University of Washington to examine emerging uses of contactless payment devices and their implications, including security and privacy implications, for consumer protection policy. (read more)

Defendants in International Spam Operation Settle FTC Charges; New Canadian Defendants Identified

Defendants in an operation that sold bogus weight loss supplements through illegal spam e-mail have settled Federal Trade Commission charges that their operation violated federal laws. (read more)

FTC to Hold Public Workshop to Examine Debt Settlement Industry; Agency Seeks Comments, Original Papers, and Participation

The Federal Trade Commission today released a staff report on a Roundtable Discussion on Phishing Education that it hosted in Apr. (read more)

FTC to Hold Public Workshop to Examine Debt Settlement Industry; Agency Seeks Comments, Original Papers, and Participation

The Federal Trade Commission staff will host a workshop on Sep 25, 2008, to explore growth in the for-profit debt settlement industry and to examine its impact on consumers and businesses. (read more)

Commission Approves Federal Register Notice Regarding Light Bulb Labeling

Commission approval of Federal Register notice - The Commission has approved the publication of an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPR) in the Federal Register to initiate a proceeding to evaluate labeling requirements for "lamps," more commonly known as light bulbs. (read more)

FTC To Host Public Workshop on "Green Guides" and Claims for Building and Textiles

Workshop is Third in Agency's Review of its Environmental Marketing Guides (read more)

FTC Submits Do Not Call Report to Congress for FY 2007

Commission approval of report to Congress - The Commission has approved the issuance of a report to Congress regarding the Do Not Call Registry for Fiscal Year 2007. (read more)

FTC Testifies on Behavioral Advertising

In testimony on behavioral advertising, the Federal Trade Commission today told the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation that "the issues surrounding this practice are complex ... the business models are diverse and constantly evolving, and ... behavioral advertising may provide benefits to consumers even as it raises concerns about consumer privacy." (read more)

Evaluating Private Residential Treatment Programs for Troubled Teens

FTC Urges Caution When Considering 'Boot Camps' (read more)

'Red Flag' Regulations Require Financial Institutions and Creditors to Have Identity Theft Prevention Programs

Financial institutions and creditors are now required to develop and implement written identity theft prevention programs under the new "Red Flags Rules." (read more)

Pyramid Scheme Operator Settles FTC Charges

An operator who used deceptive earnings promises to recruit consumers for a multi-level marketing operation that was a pyramid scheme has agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that the operation was illegal and violated federal law. (read more)

FTC Approves Federal Register Notice Amending Appliance Labeling Rule Regarding Metal Halide Lamps

Commission approval of Federal Register notice- Following a public comment period, the Commission has approved the publication of a notice in the Federal Register amending the Appliance Labeling Rule with regard to the labeling requirements for metal halide lamp fixtures. (read more)

FTC Reports on Alcohol Marketing and Self-Regulation

Study Finds High Levels of Compliance with Voluntary Placement Standard (read more)

Payday Loan Lead Generators Settle FTC Charges

Two payday loan lead generators have agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that their Internet advertising stated payday loan costs and repayment periods without disclosing annual percentage rate (APR) information as federal law requires. (read more)

FTC Warns Against Sweepstakes Scammers Posing as Government Officials

Putting a new twist on an old scam, con artists are posing as government officials when they tell consumers they have won a sweepstakes prize. (read more)

Commission Approves Filing of Joint Amicus Brief in Matter of Altria v. Good, et al.; FTC Seeks Public Comment on DVD Rating Study

Commission approval of joint amicus brief filing - The Commission has approved the filing of an amicus brief with the U.S. Supreme Court in the matter of Altria v. Good et al., No. 07-562 (U.S. S. Ct.). (read more)

Chairman Speaks on "FTC at 100: Into Our Second Century"

No Substitute for the Agency's Own Sustained Efforts to Get Things Right (read more)

FTC, California Office of Privacy Protection to Co-Host Workshop for Businesses on Best Practices for Protecting Personal Information and Securing Data

The Federal Trade Commission and the California Office of Privacy Protection will co-host a half-day public workshop in Los Angeles on Wednesday, Aug 13, 2008, on how businesses can secure personal information and protect the privacy of consumers and employees. (read more)

Commission Approves Federal Register Notice Announcing Final Amendments to Automotive Fuel Ratings

Commission approval of Federal Register notice - The Commission has approved publication of a Federal Register notice announcing final amendments to the agency's Fuel Rating Rule. (read more)

FTC Warns Consumers About Potential Charity Scams

The Federal Trade Commission is urging consumers to be cautious of potential charity scams in connection with the recent floods and tornadoes that have caused damage in the Midwest. (read more)

FTC Extends Public Rebuttal Comment Period Related to Proposed Business Opportunity Rule; Commission Approves Final Consent Order in Matter of Agrium, Inc.

Commission extension of public rebuttal comment period: The Commission has approved the extension of the public rebuttal comment period related to the Revised Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (RNPR) in connection with the Business Opportunity Rule. Commission approval of final consent order: Following a public comment period, the Commission has approved a final consent order in the matter of Agrium, Inc. (read more)

FTC Testifies on Spyware

The Federal Trade Commission today told the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation that "legislation authorizing the Commission to seek civil penalties in spyware cases could add a potent remedy to those otherwise available to the Commission." (read more)

"Free Software CD" Internet Operation Settles FTC Charges

Defendants who allegedly offered "free" software CDs that weren't free, and billed unsuspecting consumers for a software continuity program they didn't know they were enrolled in, have agreed to settle FTC charges that their practices violated federal law. (read more)

Keep Dear Old Dad Safe from Phishing

Father's Day Card Warns of Internet Scams (read more)

FTC Sues Subprime Credit Card Marketing Company and Debt Collector for Deceptive Credit Card Marketing

The Federal Trade Commission today announced the filing of a lawsuit charging CompuCredit Corporation and its wholly-owned debt collection subsidiary, Jefferson Capital Systems, LLC, with deceptive marketing practices in selling credit cards to consumers in the subprime market. (read more)

"We Don't Serve Teens": Slogan for a Safe Summer

Because summer is a time when teen drunk-driving deaths peak and teens are at high risk of starting to drink, the Federal Trade Commission is urging adults around the nation to say "Let's Make it a Safe Summer. Don't Serve Alcohol to Teens." (read more)

FTC Press Conference Will Announce Lawsuit Challenging Subprime Credit Card Marketing Company and Debt Collector

The Federal Trade Commission will announce a law enforcement action today, charging a credit card marketer and a debt collection company with using deceptive marketing practices and abusive debt collection tactics affecting consumers in the subprime market. (read more)

FTC Approves Final Consent Order in Matters of CashPro, American Cash Market, Inc., and Anderson Payday Loans

Commission approval of final consent orders - Following a public comment period, the Commission has approved the issuance of final consent orders in the matters of CashPro d/b/a MakePaydayToday.com, American Cash Market, Inc., and Anderson Payday Loans. (read more)

FTC To Host Debt Settlement Workshop

Will Examine Industry Trend Toward For-Profit Consumer Debt Relief Services (read more)

Defendants in Debt Collection Scheme Aimed At Hispanics Agree to Settle FTC Charges

Two defendants have agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges for allegedly victimizing Spanish-speaking consumers nationwide by posing as debt collectors seeking money the consumers did not owe. (read more)

FTC Secures Full Proceeds of Business Opportunity Scammer's $100,000 Performance Bond

The Federal Trade Commission today announced that it has successfully secured the proceeds of repeat offender Richard Neiswonger's $100,000 performance bond. (read more)

Home Buying Consulting Business Penalized for Credit Repair Violations

Under a federal court order entered on May 29, a home-buying consulting business that offers credit repair and home-buying consulting services will pay $10,000 to settle Federal Trade Commission charges, including illegally charging an advance fee for credit repair and falsely claiming that it can remove negative information from consumers' credit reports, even if the information is accurate and timely. (read more)

Before a Hurricane Hits, Make Sure Your Finances Are Safe and Sound

As hurricane season swings into high gear, you may be more than ready with fully charged batteries, evacuation plans for loved ones and pets, refilled prescriptions, and other precautions. Perhaps you've considered how to deal with the possibility of storm surges, high winds, tornadoes, and flooding. (read more)

Operator Who Crammed Unauthorized Charges For Web Site Services Onto Phone Bills Ordered to Pay $4.1 Million Over FTC Charges

A U.S. district court has ordered a halt to the illegal operations of a defendant who crammed unauthorized charges for Web site services onto the phone bills of hundreds of thousands of small businesses and non-profit organizations. (read more)

Cleaning Supply Sellers Agree to Settle FTC Contempt Charges

Dennis J. Saccurato and his businesses, Sparta Chem, Inc. and Compu-Kleen Inc. of Elmwood Park, have agreed to a settlement with the Federal Trade Commission in which, among other things, they admit that they are in contempt for violating a court order barring them from making fraudulent representations to induce sales of cleaning supplies and shipping and billing for supplies that businesses didn't order. (read more)

FTC Announces Workshop on 'Green Guides' and Environmental Claims for Building and Textiles

Third Public Workshop in Series Scheduled for Jul 15, 2008, in Washington, DC (read more)

FTC Halts Bogus Prepaid Phone Card Claims, Cards Failed to Deliver the Number of Minutes Promised in Ads

At the request of the Federal Trade Commission, a U. S. District Court has ordered a temporary halt to the deceptive advertising claims used to promote prepaid phone cards marketed by Alternatel, Inc.; G.F.G. Enterprises, LLC, also d/b/a Mystic Prepaid; Voice Prepaid, Inc.; Voice Distributors, Inc.; Telecom Express, Inc.; and their principals, pending trial. (read more)

Commission Approves Retention of Leather Guides in Their Current Form

Commission approval of Federal Register notice - Following a public comment period, the Commission has voted to retain the agency's Guides for Select Leather and Imitation Leather Products, commonly known as the Leather Guides, in their current form. (read more)

FTC Urges Consumers to Use Caution When Seeking a Locksmith

If you've ever locked yourself out of your car or home, you know what a hassle it can be. Your first thought is to get someone to help. (read more)

FTC Permanently Halts 'Pretexting' Scheme; Defendants Barred From Obtaining or Selling Consumers' Phone Records to Third Parties

The Federal Trade Commission has put a permanent halt to an operation that allegedly obtained consumers' confidential phone records without their knowledge or consent and sold them to third parties. (read more)

Keep Summer Fuel Costs From Burning Your Budget

FTC Provides Tips for Saving Money at the Gas Pump and Cooling Your Home (read more)

FTC Charges Home Buying Consulting Business with Credit Repair Violations

A home-buying consulting business that offers credit repair and home-buying consulting services has agreed to settle with the Federal Trade Commission for alleged federal law violations, including illegally charging an advance fee for credit repair and falsely claiming that they can remove negative information from consumers' credit reports, even if the information is accurate and timely. (read more)

FTC Testifies Before U.S. House Subcommittee on Progress of Credit-Based Insurance Score Study

The Federal Trade Commission today provided Congress with an update on the progress of its study on the use of credit-based insurance scores in homeowners insurance. (read more)

FTC Announces 'Operation Tele-PHONEY,' Agency's Largest Telemarketing Sweep

More Than 180 Actions Brought by Commission and Its Law Enforcement Partners (read more)

FTC, Partners to Announce 'Operation Tele-PHONEY' Law Enforcement Sweep

Includes Actions Brought by More than 30 U.S. and Canadian Agencies Targeting Telemarketing Fraud (read more)

FTC to Host Conference on Consumer Information and the Mortgage Market

The Federal Trade Commission's Bureau of Economics will host a conference on May 29 to highlight and assess the role of consumer information in the current mortgage crisis from an economic perspective. (read more)

Defendants Agree to $26 Million Judgment to Settle FTC Charges for Deceiving Merchants in Debt/Credit Card Processing Scheme

The marketers of a debit and credit card processing services operation have agreed to judgments of more than $26 million to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that they deceived small businesses throughout the country. (read more)

FTC Testifies Before Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on the Agency's FY 2009 Budget Request

Federal Trade Commission Chairman William E. Kovacic and Commissioner Jon Leibowitz today testified before the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee's Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government Committee on Appropriations on the FTC's behalf, requesting $256.2 million and 1,102 full-time equivalents (FTE) to accomplish the agency's competition and consumer protection missions in fiscal year (FY) 2009. (read more)

Pair Ordered to Pay $49 Million for Cross-Border Telemarketing Fraud

At the request of the Federal Trade Commission, a federal judge has ordered two persons to pay more than $49 million for their role in a Canada-based scheme that duped American businesses into paying for business directories and listings they did not order. (read more)

FTC to Host Town Hall Meeting to Explore Contactless Payment

The Federal Trade Commission and the Technology Law and Public Policy clinic at the University of Washington Law School will host a one-day Town Hall meeting to explore emerging uses of contactless payment devices and their implications for consumer protection policy. (read more)

FTC Approves New Rule Provision Under The CAN-SPAM Act

The Federal Trade Commission has approved four new rule provisions under the Controlling the Assault of Non-Solicited Pornography and Marketing Act of 2003 (CAN-SPAM or the Act). (read more)

FTC Warns Consumers About Potential Charity Scams

The Federal Trade Commission is urging consumers to be cautious of potential charity scams in connection with the devastating cyclone in Myanmar.  (read more)

Agencies Issue Proposed Rules on Risk-Based Pricing Notices

The Federal Trade Commission and the Federal Reserve Board today announced proposed regulations that generally would require a creditor to provide a consumer with a risk-based pricing notice when, based in whole or in part on the consumer's credit report, the creditor offers or provides credit to the consumer on terms less favorable than the terms it offers or provides to other consumers. (read more)

Undercover Shoppers Find it's Increasingly Difficult for Children to Buy M-Rated Games

Results Show Need for Continued Improvement by Movie, Music, and Some Game Retailers (read more)

'Express Consolidation' Telemarketers Settle FTC Charges

Defendants Misled Consumers About Debt Management Program, Violated Provisions of the National Do Not Call Registry (read more)

"Free Trial" Smoking Cessation Patch Promoter Halts Deceptive Practices; Trials Weren't Free, Patches Didn't Work As Claimed, FTC Alleges

An operation that offered "free trials" of its herbal products, including smoking cessation patches, has agreed to halt its allegedly deceptive practices, pending trial. (read more)

Commission Issues Letter in Response to SCI's Motion for Extension of Divestiture Time Period

Issuance of letter regarding motion divestiture time period extension - The Commission has approved issuance of a letter responding to a motion by Service Corporation International (SCI) in which SCI sought to extend the time allowed to divest several assets obtained through its 2006 acquisition of Alderwoods. (read more)

Federal Agencies Release Annual Report to Congress on Scholarship Fraud

Each year, millions of students seek help in financing their college education, and some fall prey to scholarship and financial aid scams that "guarantee" money for college in exchange for a fee. (read more)

FTC to Host Town Hall Meeting to Explore the Mobile Marketplace Issues

Two-day Town Hall meeting to explore the evolving mobile commerce marketplace and its implications for consumer protection policy. (read more)

Court Orders Cross-Border Telemarketers to Pay Nearly $5 Million

Canadian Defendants Fraudulently Pitched Advance-Fee Credit Cards and "Free" Gifts (read more)

FTC, Better Business Bureau to Sponsor Advertising Event in Dallas

Green Lights and Red Flags- Rules of the Road for Advertisers (read more)

FTC Energy Guide Labels Help Consumers Conserve Energy and Save Money

Get energy-smart this Earth Day with the Federal Trade Commission's new publication, EnergyGuidance: Appliance Shopping With the EnergyGuide Label. (read more)

Canadian House of Cards Continues to Fall, as Bogus Biller Settles FTC Charges

Ex-wife of Ringleader Was One of Only Two Remaining Defendants in Case (read more)

Court Orders Telemarketers Responsible for "Wal-Mart" Shopping Spree Scam to Pay 28.2 Million

The last "Debt-Set" defendant has agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges for his role in an operation that allegedly violated federal law by falsely claiming that it could reduce consumers' credit card interest rates or the amount of their credit card debt. (read more)

FTC Extends Time Period for Public Comment on Jewelry Guides

Commission approval of public comment period extension - By a vote of 4-0, the Commission has approved an extension of the public comment period related to the recently proposed amendment to the platinum section of the FTC's Guides for the Jewelry, Precious Metals, and Pewter Industries, commonly known as the Jewelry Guides. (read more)

FTC Energy Guide Labels Help Consumers Conserve Energy and Save Money

Get energy-smart this Earth Day with the Federal Trade Commission's new publication, EnergyGuidance: Appliance Shopping With the EnergyGuide Label. (read more)

Commission Approves Final Consent Order in Matter of Life is Good, Inc.

Commission approval of final consent order - Following a public comment period, the Commission has approved the issuance of a final consent order in the matter of Life is good, Inc., and Life is good Retail (collectively LIG). (read more)

FTC Submits Testimony to Florida State Senate Regarding Bill That Would Amend State's Certificate of Need Laws

At the request of Florida Governor Charlie Crist, the Federal Trade Commission has submitted written testimony on health care competition, Florida's certificate of need (CON) laws, and Florida Senate Bill 2326 (S.B. 2326) to the Florida Governor and State Senate. (read more)

FTC Approves Filing of Staff Comment to the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System Regarding Proposed Rule to Restrict Certain Mortgage Practices Under TILA

The Federal Trade Commission has approved the filing of a staff comment to the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System regarding the Federal Reserve Board's proposed rule to restrict certain mortgage practices under the Truth in Lending Act and the Home Ownership Equity Protection Act. (read more)

Appeals Court Affirms Order Requiring Seasilver Defendants to Pay Almost $120 Million in Diet Supplement Case

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit has upheld a district court ruling requiring marketers of Seasilver, an alleged phony cure-all, to pay almost $120 million for failing to comply with an earlier order requiring them to pay $3 million in consumer redress. (read more)

Commission Approves Final Consent Orders in Matters of Connecticut Chiropractic Association and Goal Financial, LLC

Commission approval of final consent order - Following a public comment period, the Commission has approved the issuance of a final consent order in the matter concerning the Connecticut Chiropractic Association (CCA), the Connecticut Chiropractic Council (CCC), and Robert L. Hirtle (CCA's legal counsel). (read more)

Business Opportunity Marketers Settle with FTC; Tempted Consumers with Sweet-Sounding Claims for Candy Machine Venture

Lifestyle Vending, Inc., and its owners, Michael Eisenberg and Maryann McCulloh, have agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that they misled consumers into paying thousands of dollars for a vending machine business venture without substantiating their claims about its earning potential. (read more)

Federal Court Prohibits Three Defendants from 'Cramming' Unauthorized Charges on Consumers' Telephone Bills

Three individuals have agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges for their role in a massive scam that billed more than $34 million in unauthorized collect call charges to millions of consumers throughout the country. (read more)

Final Defendant Settles with FTC in Cross-Border Telemarketing Fraud Case

Charles P. Farrugia, a defendant in a Federal Trade Commission lawsuit against a fraudulent telemarketing scheme based in Canada, has agreed to settle FTC charges for his role in allegedly scamming American businesses into paying for business directories and listings they didn't order. (read more)

FTC Approves Federal Register Notice Reopening Public Comment Period on Petition Related to Textile Rules

Commission approval of Federal Register notice: The Commission has approved the publication of a Federal Register notice reopening the public comment period on a petition submitted to the FTC pursuant to the Textile Rules and Regulations Under the Textile Fiber Products Identification Act (Textile Rules). (read more)

New FTC Videos Help Consumers Spot Phishing Scams

The Federal Trade Commission has released three 60-second videos to help alert consumers to phishing scams. (read more)

FTC, Better Business Bureau to Sponsor Advertising Event in Minneapolis

Green Lights and Red Flags: Rules of the Road for Advertisers (read more)