Federal Trade Commission Chair and Commissioners Issue Unanimous Joint Statement | site |
Information contained in Federal Trade Commission (FTC) press release dated: October 13, 2022
Today FTC Chair Lina M. Khan, and Commissioners Noah Joshua Phillips, Rebecca Kelly Slaughter, Christine S. Wilson, and Alvaro Bedoya unanimously issued a joint statement in response to an article in the Wall Street Journal regarding FTC ethics:
“The Federal Trade Commission is composed of dedicated, honest career civil servants who provide a vital service to protect Americans from unlawful business practices. As commissioners, we frequently disagree with one another about policy questions. But we stand behind our career staff. We demand compliance with the FTC’s ethics rules, set clear expectations of staff behavior, and swiftly refer any violations of these rules to the proper authorities.”
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FTC Chair and Commissioners Issue Unanimous Joint Statement
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Federal Trade Commission Launches Inquiry into Infant Formula Crisis
Federal Trade Commission Launches Inquiry into Infant Formula Crisis | site |
Agency Seeks Public Comment on Attempts to Deceive Families and Factors that May Have Contributed to the Ongoing Shortage of Infant Formula
Information contained in Federal Trade Commission (FTC) press release dated: May 24, 2022
Today, the Federal Trade Commission staff launched an inquiry into the ongoing shortage for infant formula that has caused hardship for countless American families. The inquiry seeks information about the nature and prevalence of any deceptive, fraudulent, or otherwise unfair business practices aimed at taking advantage of families during this shortage. It also aims to shed light on the factors that have led to concentration in the infant formula market and the fragility of the supply chains for these crucial products. FTC Chair Lina M. Khan released a statement in conjunction with... -
Federal Trade Commission Enforces New Made in USA Rule against Lithionics and Owner Steven Tartaglia for Falsely Labeling Foreign-Made Batteries as American
Federal Trade Commission Enforces New Made in USA Rule against Lithionics and Owner Steven Tartaglia for Falsely Labeling Foreign-Made Batteries as American | site |
Order Requires Lithionics Battery LLC And Tartaglia To Pay Civil Penalty, Notify Consumers, and Stop Making Bogus Made in USA Claims
Information contained in Federal Trade Commission press release dated: April 13, 2022
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) today used its authority under the Made in USA Labeling Rule, which took effect on Aug. 13, 2021, to bring a complaint against Lithionics Battery LLC and its owner, Steven Tartaglia for illegally misrepresenting that its lithium ion cells are made in the United States. The FTC’s complaint alleges that, since at least 2018, Lithionics has falsely labeled its battery products with an American flag image surrounded by the words “Made in U.S.A.,” often accompanied by the statement “Proudly Designed and Built in USA,”... -
Federal Trade Commission Takes Action Against Multistate Auto Dealer Napleton for Sneaking Illegal Junk Fees onto Bills and Discriminating Against Black Consumers
Federal Trade Commission Takes Action Against Multistate Auto Dealer Napleton for Sneaking Illegal Junk Fees onto Bills and Discriminating Against Black Consumers | site |
Napleton Auto will pay a record-setting $10 Million in case brought jointly with the State of Illinois
Information contained in Federal Trade Commission (FTC) press release dated: April 1, 2022
The Federal Trade Commission and the State of Illinois are taking action against Napleton, a large, multistate auto dealer group based in Illinois, for sneaking illegal junk fees for unwanted “add-ons” onto customers’ bills and for discriminating against Black consumers by charging them more for financing. Napleton will pay $10 million to settle the lawsuit brought by the FTC and the State of Illinois, a record-setting monetary judgment for an FTC auto lending case. “Working closely with the Illinois Attorney General, we are holding these dealerships accountable... -
Lina Khan Sworn in as Chair of the Federal Trade Commission
Lina Khan Sworn in as Chair of the Federal Trade Commission | site |
(Information contained in Federal Trade Commission [FTC] press release dated: June 15, 2021)
Lina Khan was sworn in today as Chair of the Federal Trade Commission. President Biden named Khan, a Democrat, to a term on the Commission that expires September 25, 2024, and designated her as Chair. Khan was confirmed by the U.S. Senate on June 15, 2021. “It is a tremendous honor to have been selected by President Biden to lead the Federal Trade Commission,” said Chair Khan. “I look forward to working with my colleagues to protect the public from corporate abuse. I’m very grateful to Acting Chairwoman Slaughter for her outstanding stewardship of the Commission." Prior to becoming Chair of the FTC, Khan was an Associate Professor of Law at Columbia Law School. She also previously served as counsel to the U.S. House Judiciary Committee’s Subcommit... -
FTC Sends More Than 172 Million Dollars in Refunds to Consumers allegedly Misled by Rent-To-Own Provider Progressive Leasing
Federal Trade Commission Sends More Than $172 Million in Refunds to Consumers allegedly Misled by Rent-To-Own Provider Progressive Leasing | site |
FTC says more than two million consumers will receive refunds from FTC case alleging false promises of “same as cash” payment plans
(Information contained in Federal Trade Commission [FTC] press release dated: June 7, 2021) The Federal Trade Commission is returning more than $172 million to consumers who overpaid for merchandise they purchased using rent-to-own plans provided by Progressive Leasing. More than two million consumers will receive refund checks. The FTC’s complaint against the company, filed in April 2020, alleged that Progressive misled consumers about the true price of items purchased through its plans. Consumers who visited retailers to buy items such as furniture, jewelry, or cellphones frequently were told that Progressive’s payment plans were “same as cash” or “no int... -
FTC Returns Nearly 60 Million Dollars to Those Suffering from Opioid Addiction Who Were Allegedly Overcharged in Suboxone Film Scheme
Federal Trade Commission Returns Nearly $60 Million to Those Suffering from Opioid Addiction Who Were Allegedly Overcharged in Suboxone Film Scheme| site |
FTC says funds for these payments come from the FTC’s settlements with Reckitt Benckiser Group and Indivior, Inc. who took advantage of their unique market position to scare consumers away from generic Suboxone tablets
(Information contained in Federal Trade Commission [FTC] press release dated: May 10, 2021)
The Federal Trade Commission is sending 51,875 payments totaling more than $59 million to consumers who were victims of an allegedly deceptive scheme by Reckitt Benckiser Group and Indivior, Inc. to thwart lower-priced generic competition with the branded drug Suboxone. The average paymentamount is $1,139. The payments will be mailed...
Courtesy: Federal Trade Commission -
FTC, CFPB Send Notice Letters to Landlords Regarding Pandemic Eviction Moratorium
Federal Trade Commission and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Send Notice Letters to Landlords Regarding Pandemic Eviction Moratorium | site |
Letters remind landlords of their obligations as part of the CDC’s moratorium
(Information contained in Federal Trade Commission [FTC] press release dated: May 3, 2021)
The acting heads of the Federal Trade Commission and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) have sent joint notification letters to the nation’s largest apartment landlords, which collectively own more than 2 million units, reminding them of their obligations under the ongoing national eviction moratorium put in place as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The moratorium, which was recently extended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) until June 30, 2021, prohibits evictions in certain circumstances in order to keep people in their homes and prevent the spread of the disease... -
Statement on Change to Definition of ‘Agricultural Products’ in Reporting Trade Data
Statement on Change to Definition of ‘Agricultural Products’ in Reporting Trade Data | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release dated: February 19, 2021)
Washington, Feb. 19, 2021 - - USDA and the Department of Commerce decided in December 2020 to change the way they define “agricultural products” when reporting international trade data.
Beginning with the release of the January 2021 monthly trade data on March 5, USDA will adopt the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) internationally recognized definition of “agricultural products,” which includes ethanol, distilled spirits and manufactured tobacco products, three product groups not included in the current USDA definition.
The change was first announced by Commerce in the Monthly U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services report released on Feb. 5th. The change is meant to harmonize U.S. trade reporting practices with those ... -
New Federal Trade Commission Data Show Massive Increase in Romance Scams, 304M Dollars in Losses
New Federal Trade Commission Data Show Massive Increase in Romance Scams, $304M in Losses | site |
Data spotlight shows reported losses up 50 percent from 2019
(Information contained in Federal Trade Commission [FTC] press release dated: February 10, 2021)
More consumers than ever report falling prey to romance scammers, according to new Federal Trade Commission data that show consumers reported losing a record $304 million to the scams last year. A newly released data spotlight shows that the amount consumers reported losing to romance scammers is up about 50 percent since 2019, and has increased more than fourfold since 2016. Scammers draw people in using pictures stolen from around the internet, building false personas that seem just real enough to be true, but always having a reason never to meet in person. Eventually, the supposed suitor will ask for money from the unwitting consumer. The impact can be major, with the ... -
FTC Marks Identity Theft Awareness Week with Events to Help Consumers Identify Risks of Identity Theft During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Federal Trade Commission marks Identity Theft Awareness Week with Events to Help Consumers Identify Risks of Identity Theft During the COVID-19 Pandemic | site |
(Information contained in Federal Trade Commission [FTC] information release dated: January 28, 2021)
The Federal Trade Commission is launching Identity Theft Awareness Week, February 1-5, 2021, with a series of events to highlight steps consumers can take to help reduce their risk of identity theft and recover if identity theft occurs.
Identity theft happens when someone steals personal information about you such as your Social Security number or credit card information, and uses it to commit fraud. Reports about any type of identity theft topped the list of consumer complaints submitted to the FTC through the third quarter of 2020.As part of Identity Theft Awareness Week,... -
Federal Trade Commission Brings First-Ever Cases Under the BOTS Act
Federal Trade Commission Brings First-Ever Cases Under the BOTS Act | site |
FTC says ticket brokers will face partially suspended judgment of more than $31 million in civil penalties
(Information extracted from Federal Trade Commission [FTC] press release dated: January 22, 2021) The Federal Trade Commission is taking legal action against three ticket brokers based in New York who allegedly used automated software to illegally buy up tens of thousands of tickets for popular concerts and sporting events, then subsequently made millions of dollars reselling the tickets to fans at higher prices. The three ticket brokers will be subject to a judgment of more than $31 million in civil penalties for violating the Better Online Ticket Sales (BOTS) Act, under a proposed settlement reached with the FTC. Due to their inability to pay, the judgment will be partially suspended, requiring them to pay $3.7 million. This is the first case br... -
FTC Commissioner Rebecca Kelly Slaughter Designated Acting Chair of the Agency
Federal Trade Commission Commissioner Rebecca Kelly Slaughter Designated Acting Chair of the Agency | site |
(Information contained in Federal Trade Commission [FTC] press release dated: January 21, 2021) President Joseph R. Biden designated Rebecca Kelly Slaughter as Acting Chair of the Federal Trade Commission. Slaughter has served as a Commissioner since May 2018. “I am deeply honored and grateful to lead an agency that is critical to helping the U.S. economy get back on its feet and function more fairly for all Americans,” Slaughter said. “I want to express my sincere appreciation for the excellent leadership of Chairman Simons during a time of unprecedented challenges.” As a Commissioner, Slaughter has been an advocate for greater resources for the FTC and promoted equity and inclusion efforts. She has championed aggressive use of the FTC’s authorities. She has also been particularly outspoken about combatting systemic racism, g... -
Federal Trade Commission Publishes Annual Performance Report
Federal Trade Commission Publishes Annual Performance Report | site |
(Information contained in Federal Trade Commission [FTC] press release dated: January 19, 2021)
The Federal Trade Commission published its Fiscal Year 2020 Performance Report as required under the Government Performance and Results Modernization Act of 2010. The report documents the progress made by the Commission in achieving the mission and performance goals established in the Fiscal Year 2020-2021 Performance Plan. Also, as required by the Government Performance and Results Modernization Act during a transition in administration, the Commission will submit its Fiscal 2021-2022 Performance Plan along with its Fiscal Year 2022 budget request in support of the President’s FY 2022 budget for the federal government later this year.
The Commission vote to submit the Performance Report to Congress was 5-0.... -
Federal Trade Commission Chairman Simons Announces his Resignation
Federal Trade Commission Chairman Simons Announces his Resignation | site |
(Information contained in Federal Trade Commission [FTC] press release dated: January 19, 2021) Federal Trade Commission Chairman Joseph J. Simons announced his resignation from the Commission today, effective January 29, 2021. “It’s been a great honor to lead this incredible organization filled with so many talented people working on behalf of American consumers,” Simons said. “As technology and our economy continue to evolve through the digital age, the FTC’s staff work tirelessly so that consumers continue to benefit from a fair and competitive marketplace. It’s been a privilege to be part of that effort.” Simons was sworn in as Chairman of the FTC on May 1, 2018, having previously served as Director of the agency’s Bureau of Competition between 2001 and 2003 and in other senior positions in the Bureau during the 1980s. As Chairman, he has focused on vigo...
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Federal Trade Commission Chair and Commissioners Issue Unanimous Joint Statement | site |
Information contained in Federal Trade Commission (FTC) press release dated: October 13, 2022
Today FTC Chair Lina M. Khan, and Commissioners Noah Joshua Phillips, Rebecca Kelly Slaughter, Christine S. Wilson, and Alvaro Bedoya unanimously issued a joint statement in response to an article in the Wall Street Journal regarding FTC ethics:
“The Federal Trade Commission is composed of dedicated, honest career civil servants who provide a vital service to protect Americans from unlawful business practices. As commissioners, we frequently disagree with one another about policy questions. But we stand behind our career staff. We demand compliance with the FTC’s ethics rules, set clear expectations of staff behavior, and swiftly refer any violations of these rules to the proper authorities.”
10-22-2022, 04:52 PM -
Federal Trade Commission Launches Inquiry into Infant Formula Crisis | site |
Agency Seeks Public Comment on Attempts to Deceive Families and Factors that May Have Contributed to the Ongoing Shortage of Infant Formula
Information contained in Federal Trade Commission (FTC) press release dated: May 24, 2022
Today, the Federal Trade Commission staff launched an inquiry into the ongoing shortage for infant formula that has caused hardship for countless American families. The inquiry seeks information about the nature and prevalence of any deceptive, fraudulent, or otherwise unfair business practices aimed at taking advantage of families during this shortage. It also aims to shed light on the factors that have led to concentration in the infant formula market and the fragility of the supply chains for these crucial products. FTC Chair Lina M. Khan released a statement in conjunction with...06-03-2022, 02:41 PM -
Federal Trade Commission Enforces New Made in USA Rule against Lithionics and Owner Steven Tartaglia for Falsely Labeling Foreign-Made Batteries as American | site |
Order Requires Lithionics Battery LLC And Tartaglia To Pay Civil Penalty, Notify Consumers, and Stop Making Bogus Made in USA Claims
Information contained in Federal Trade Commission press release dated: April 13, 2022
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) today used its authority under the Made in USA Labeling Rule, which took effect on Aug. 13, 2021, to bring a complaint against Lithionics Battery LLC and its owner, Steven Tartaglia for illegally misrepresenting that its lithium ion cells are made in the United States. The FTC’s complaint alleges that, since at least 2018, Lithionics has falsely labeled its battery products with an American flag image surrounded by the words “Made in U.S.A.,” often accompanied by the statement “Proudly Designed and Built in USA,”...04-16-2022, 05:01 PM -
Federal Trade Commission Takes Action Against Multistate Auto Dealer Napleton for Sneaking Illegal Junk Fees onto Bills and Discriminating Against Black Consumers | site |
Napleton Auto will pay a record-setting $10 Million in case brought jointly with the State of Illinois
Information contained in Federal Trade Commission (FTC) press release dated: April 1, 2022
The Federal Trade Commission and the State of Illinois are taking action against Napleton, a large, multistate auto dealer group based in Illinois, for sneaking illegal junk fees for unwanted “add-ons” onto customers’ bills and for discriminating against Black consumers by charging them more for financing. Napleton will pay $10 million to settle the lawsuit brought by the FTC and the State of Illinois, a record-setting monetary judgment for an FTC auto lending case. “Working closely with the Illinois Attorney General, we are holding these dealerships accountable...04-02-2022, 10:17 PM -
Lina Khan Sworn in as Chair of the Federal Trade Commission | site |
(Information contained in Federal Trade Commission [FTC] press release dated: June 15, 2021)
Lina Khan was sworn in today as Chair of the Federal Trade Commission. President Biden named Khan, a Democrat, to a term on the Commission that expires September 25, 2024, and designated her as Chair. Khan was confirmed by the U.S. Senate on June 15, 2021. “It is a tremendous honor to have been selected by President Biden to lead the Federal Trade Commission,” said Chair Khan. “I look forward to working with my colleagues to protect the public from corporate abuse. I’m very grateful to Acting Chairwoman Slaughter for her outstanding stewardship of the Commission." Prior to becoming Chair of the FTC, Khan was an Associate Professor of Law at Columbia Law School. She also previously served as counsel to the U.S. House Judiciary Committee’s Subcommit...06-23-2021, 07:35 AM -
Federal Trade Commission Sends More Than $172 Million in Refunds to Consumers allegedly Misled by Rent-To-Own Provider Progressive Leasing | site |
FTC says more than two million consumers will receive refunds from FTC case alleging false promises of “same as cash” payment plans
(Information contained in Federal Trade Commission [FTC] press release dated: June 7, 2021) The Federal Trade Commission is returning more than $172 million to consumers who overpaid for merchandise they purchased using rent-to-own plans provided by Progressive Leasing. More than two million consumers will receive refund checks. The FTC’s complaint against the company, filed in April 2020, alleged that Progressive misled consumers about the true price of items purchased through its plans. Consumers who visited retailers to buy items such as furniture, jewelry, or cellphones frequently were told that Progressive’s payment plans were “same as cash” or “no int...06-10-2021, 01:01 AM -
Federal Trade Commission Returns Nearly $60 Million to Those Suffering from Opioid Addiction Who Were Allegedly Overcharged in Suboxone Film Scheme| site |
FTC says funds for these payments come from the FTC’s settlements with Reckitt Benckiser Group and Indivior, Inc. who took advantage of their unique market position to scare consumers away from generic Suboxone tablets
(Information contained in Federal Trade Commission [FTC] press release dated: May 10, 2021)
The Federal Trade Commission is sending 51,875 payments totaling more than $59 million to consumers who were victims of an allegedly deceptive scheme by Reckitt Benckiser Group and Indivior, Inc. to thwart lower-priced generic competition with the branded drug Suboxone. The average paymentamount is $1,139. The payments will be mailed...
Courtesy: Federal Trade Commission05-14-2021, 04:26 AM -
Federal Trade Commission and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Send Notice Letters to Landlords Regarding Pandemic Eviction Moratorium | site |
Letters remind landlords of their obligations as part of the CDC’s moratorium
(Information contained in Federal Trade Commission [FTC] press release dated: May 3, 2021)
The acting heads of the Federal Trade Commission and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) have sent joint notification letters to the nation’s largest apartment landlords, which collectively own more than 2 million units, reminding them of their obligations under the ongoing national eviction moratorium put in place as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The moratorium, which was recently extended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) until June 30, 2021, prohibits evictions in certain circumstances in order to keep people in their homes and prevent the spread of the disease...05-06-2021, 11:28 PM -
Statement on Change to Definition of ‘Agricultural Products’ in Reporting Trade Data | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release dated: February 19, 2021)
Washington, Feb. 19, 2021 - - USDA and the Department of Commerce decided in December 2020 to change the way they define “agricultural products” when reporting international trade data.
Beginning with the release of the January 2021 monthly trade data on March 5, USDA will adopt the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) internationally recognized definition of “agricultural products,” which includes ethanol, distilled spirits and manufactured tobacco products, three product groups not included in the current USDA definition.
The change was first announced by Commerce in the Monthly U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services report released on Feb. 5th. The change is meant to harmonize U.S. trade reporting practices with those ...02-25-2021, 02:53 AM -
New Federal Trade Commission Data Show Massive Increase in Romance Scams, $304M in Losses | site |
Data spotlight shows reported losses up 50 percent from 2019
(Information contained in Federal Trade Commission [FTC] press release dated: February 10, 2021)
More consumers than ever report falling prey to romance scammers, according to new Federal Trade Commission data that show consumers reported losing a record $304 million to the scams last year. A newly released data spotlight shows that the amount consumers reported losing to romance scammers is up about 50 percent since 2019, and has increased more than fourfold since 2016. Scammers draw people in using pictures stolen from around the internet, building false personas that seem just real enough to be true, but always having a reason never to meet in person. Eventually, the supposed suitor will ask for money from the unwitting consumer. The impact can be major, with the ...02-10-2021, 03:32 PM -
Federal Trade Commission marks Identity Theft Awareness Week with Events to Help Consumers Identify Risks of Identity Theft During the COVID-19 Pandemic | site |
(Information contained in Federal Trade Commission [FTC] information release dated: January 28, 2021)
The Federal Trade Commission is launching Identity Theft Awareness Week, February 1-5, 2021, with a series of events to highlight steps consumers can take to help reduce their risk of identity theft and recover if identity theft occurs.
Identity theft happens when someone steals personal information about you such as your Social Security number or credit card information, and uses it to commit fraud. Reports about any type of identity theft topped the list of consumer complaints submitted to the FTC through the third quarter of 2020.As part of Identity Theft Awareness Week,...01-29-2021, 01:07 AM -
Federal Trade Commission Brings First-Ever Cases Under the BOTS Act | site |
FTC says ticket brokers will face partially suspended judgment of more than $31 million in civil penalties
(Information extracted from Federal Trade Commission [FTC] press release dated: January 22, 2021) The Federal Trade Commission is taking legal action against three ticket brokers based in New York who allegedly used automated software to illegally buy up tens of thousands of tickets for popular concerts and sporting events, then subsequently made millions of dollars reselling the tickets to fans at higher prices. The three ticket brokers will be subject to a judgment of more than $31 million in civil penalties for violating the Better Online Ticket Sales (BOTS) Act, under a proposed settlement reached with the FTC. Due to their inability to pay, the judgment will be partially suspended, requiring them to pay $3.7 million. This is the first case br...01-25-2021, 01:47 AM -
Federal Trade Commission Commissioner Rebecca Kelly Slaughter Designated Acting Chair of the Agency | site |
(Information contained in Federal Trade Commission [FTC] press release dated: January 21, 2021) President Joseph R. Biden designated Rebecca Kelly Slaughter as Acting Chair of the Federal Trade Commission. Slaughter has served as a Commissioner since May 2018. “I am deeply honored and grateful to lead an agency that is critical to helping the U.S. economy get back on its feet and function more fairly for all Americans,” Slaughter said. “I want to express my sincere appreciation for the excellent leadership of Chairman Simons during a time of unprecedented challenges.” As a Commissioner, Slaughter has been an advocate for greater resources for the FTC and promoted equity and inclusion efforts. She has championed aggressive use of the FTC’s authorities. She has also been particularly outspoken about combatting systemic racism, g...01-22-2021, 08:48 AM -
Federal Trade Commission Publishes Annual Performance Report | site |
(Information contained in Federal Trade Commission [FTC] press release dated: January 19, 2021)
The Federal Trade Commission published its Fiscal Year 2020 Performance Report as required under the Government Performance and Results Modernization Act of 2010. The report documents the progress made by the Commission in achieving the mission and performance goals established in the Fiscal Year 2020-2021 Performance Plan. Also, as required by the Government Performance and Results Modernization Act during a transition in administration, the Commission will submit its Fiscal 2021-2022 Performance Plan along with its Fiscal Year 2022 budget request in support of the President’s FY 2022 budget for the federal government later this year.
The Commission vote to submit the Performance Report to Congress was 5-0....01-20-2021, 10:12 PM -
Federal Trade Commission Chairman Simons Announces his Resignation | site |
(Information contained in Federal Trade Commission [FTC] press release dated: January 19, 2021) Federal Trade Commission Chairman Joseph J. Simons announced his resignation from the Commission today, effective January 29, 2021. “It’s been a great honor to lead this incredible organization filled with so many talented people working on behalf of American consumers,” Simons said. “As technology and our economy continue to evolve through the digital age, the FTC’s staff work tirelessly so that consumers continue to benefit from a fair and competitive marketplace. It’s been a privilege to be part of that effort.” Simons was sworn in as Chairman of the FTC on May 1, 2018, having previously served as Director of the agency’s Bureau of Competition between 2001 and 2003 and in other senior positions in the Bureau during the 1980s. As Chairman, he has focused on vigo...01-20-2021, 05:17 AM -
Federal Trade Commission Data Show Gift Cards Remain Scammers’ Favorite Payment Method | site |
(Information contained in Federal Trade Commission [FTC] press release: December 21, 2020)
A new data analysis by the Federal Trade Commission shows that gift cards continue to be the most common form of payment when consumers report losing money to most scammers. Since 2018, the data analysis shows consumers have reported spending nearly $245 million on gift cards that they used to pay scammers for a wide variety of scams. Most often, consumers that use gift cards to pay a scammer are drawn in by an imposter scam. These can take on many forms, but the ones most likely to rely on gift cards as a payment method were government imposters, family imposters, business imposters, and tech support scams. In these scams, the scammers convince consumers that they must pay using gift cards. The reasons they present vary, but they always come back to the...12-22-2020, 01:18 PM -
U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross and Singapore Minister for Trade and Industry Chan Chun Sing Sign Memorandum of Understanding on Trade Financing and Investment Cooperation | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Commerce press release: December 15, 2020) The United States of America (U.S.) and Singapore have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to deepen economic cooperation and extend trade financing and investment support to companies in Singapore and the U.S. The MOU was signed by U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross and Singapore Minister for Trade and Industry Chan Chun Sing. “The U.S. and Singapore have enjoyed more than fifty years of official partnership since we established diplomatic ties in 1966,” said Secretary Ross. “This MOU will help Singapore importers finance the purchase of U.S. exports and support Singapore investors looking at opportunities in the U.S.” Singapore’s Minister for T...12-16-2020, 03:59 AM -
Federal Trade Commission Releases Agenda for Franchise Rule Virtual Workshop| site |
(November 3, 2020) - - Today, November 3, 2020, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) published the following information:
The Federal Trade Commission has released the agenda for the Franchise Rule virtual workshop on November 10.
The event will explore a number of issues related to the Franchise Rule, and the comments received in response to the FTC’s request for comment about the Rule last year. The Rule is designed to ensure that consumers who are considering buying a franchise have key information they need to weigh the risks and benefits of that potential investment. Andrew Smith, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection, will give introductory remarks to kick off the event and will be followed by Congressman Kevin Hern of Oklahoma, who will give an opening address. The three panel discussion will focus on representations that franch...11-05-2020, 03:14 PM -
Federal Trade Commission Issues Annual Report to Congress on Protecting Older Adults| site |
(October 19, 2020) - - Today, October 19, 2020, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) published the following information:
The Federal Trade Commission’s annual report to Congress on protecting older adults, issued today, provides a detailed look at the scams that most often affect adults over 60, as well as the FTC’s research, law enforcement, and education efforts aimed at protecting older consumers—a top priority for the agency.
As part of the FTC’s efforts to understand how fraud is affecting older adults, the report, Protecting Older Consumers 2019-2020: A Report of the Federal Trade Commission, includes analysis of FTC consumer complaint data. In 2019, as in prior years, older adults (aged 60 and older) were less likely than younger adults (aged 20 to 59) to report losing money to fraud, but reported much higher individual dollar losses. In...10-22-2020, 12:58 PM -
Federal Trade Commission Publishes Inflation-Adjusted Civil Penalty Amounts| site |
(January 13, 2020) - - Today, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) provided the following information: The Federal Trade Commission has adjusted the maximum civil penalty dollar amounts for violations of 16 provisions of law the FTC enforces, as required by the Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act Improvements Act of 2015. The Act directs agencies to implement annual inflation adjustments based on a prescribed formula. The new maximum civil penalty amounts will take effect upon their publication in the Federal Register. The maximum civil penalty amount has increased from $42,530 to $43,280 for violations of Sections 5(l), 5(m)(1)(A), and 5(m)(1)(B) of the FTC Act, 7A(g)(l) of the Clayton Act and Section 525(b) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act. It has increased from $559 to $569 for violations of Section 10 of the FTC Act. The maximum civil penalty...01-16-2020, 03:55 AM -
Boeing CEO Statement on US-China Trade Deal| site |
(January 15, 2020) - - Today, the Boeing Company published the following information:*
Boeing has a long-standing partnership with China that spans nearly 50 years. We're proud that Boeing airplanes will continue to be a part of this valued relationship, one that has fueled aerospace innovation and sustained manufacturing jobs.
Boeing applauds Presidents Trump and Xi as well as Vice Premier Liu, Secretary Mnuchin and Ambassador Lighthizer for their leadership in building a fair and mutually-beneficial trading relationship between the United States and China.
*(The statement, referencing today's announcement of a US-China trade deal, was issued by Boeing President and CEO Dave Calhoun.)...01-16-2020, 01:23 AM -
Federal Trade Commission Announces Panels for FTC-CFPB Workshop on Accuracy in Consumer Reporting | site |
(December 3, 2019) - - Today, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) published the following information:
The Federal Trade Commission announced the panels for its December 10, 2019 workshop, cohosted with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), to examine issues affecting the accuracy of traditional credit reports as well as employment and tenant background screening reports.
The December workshop seeks to bring together stakeholders—including industry representatives, consumer advocates, and regulators—for a wide-ranging public discussion on the changes in the landscape over recent years that may affect the accuracy of consumer reports, such as changes in legal requirements and technological developments.
The workshop will include four panel discussions examining such issues as:- the current practices
12-04-2019, 11:38 AM -
Federal Trade Commission Issues Annual Report on Ethanol Market Concentration for 2019 | site |
(November 25, 2019) - - Today, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) published the following information:
The Federal Trade Commission has issued its 2019 Report on Ethanol Market Concentration. The Energy Policy Act of 2005 directs the Commission to perform an annual review of market concentration in the ethanol production industry “to determine whether there is sufficient competition among industry participants to avoid price-setting and other anticompetitive behavior.” As in prior years, the 2019 report concludes that “[t]he low level of concentration and large number of market participants in the U.S. ethanol production industry continue to suggest that the exercise of market power to set prices, or coordination on price and output levels, is unlikely.” The Commission vote to approve the report was 4-0-1. Commissioner Christine S. Wilson did...11-25-2019, 05:44 PM -
Federal Trade Commission and Department of Justice Approve Procedural Amendments to Hart-Scott-Rodino Rules for Foreign Entities | site |
(November 8, 2019) - - Today (November 8, 2019), the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) published the following information: The Federal Trade Commission, with the concurrence of the Antitrust Division of the U.S. Department of Justice, has published in the Federal Register proposed amendments that clarify whether a transaction is exempt from premerger notification under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Act because the entity involved is foreign. Determining whether an entity is a foreign person or issuer is often a necessary first step in analyzing whether the entity must file premerger notification or is exempt from those filing requirements. Under the current Hart-Scott-Rodino Rules, the determination often relies on the location of the entity’s “principal offices,” a term that has not previously been defined in the Rules. Under th...11-21-2019, 11:30 PM -
Federal Trade Commission Releases Advertising Disclosures Guidance for Online Influencers | site |
New document, videos summarize how to ensure consumers are aware of advertising relationships
(November 5, 2019) - - Today, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) published the following information:
The Federal Trade Commission has released a new publication for online influencers that lays out the agency’s rules of the road for when and how influencers must disclose sponsorships to their followers.
The new guide, “Disclosures 101 for Social Media Influencers,” provides influencers with tips from FTC staff about what triggers the need for a disclosure and offers examples of both effective and ineffective disclosures. The guide and accompanying videos underscore that the responsibility to make disclosures about endorsements lies with the influencer. The guide outlines the various ways that an influencer’s relationshi...11-18-2019, 05:53 PM -
HUD Secretary Carson asks the Federal Trade Commission to Investigate Websites Selling Assistance Animal Documentation | site |
(November 8, 2019) - - Today, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development published the following information: WASHINGTON – Recently, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Ben Carson wrote to Chairman of the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Joseph J. Simons and Director of the Bureau of Consumer Protection Andrew Smith requesting that the FTC investigate certain websites that may be selling assistance animal documentation. “These certificates are not an acceptable substitute for authentic documentation provided by medical professionals when appropriate,” said Secretary Carson. “These websites that sell assistance animal certificates are often also misleading by implying that they are affiliated with the federal government. Nothing could be further from the truth. Their goal is to convin...11-18-2019, 07:14 AM -
Truly Organic? The Federal Trade Commission Says No, Alleges Retailer Misled Consumers about Its Products | site |
Bath and beauty retailer to pay $1.76 million to settle Commission allegations
(September 19, 2019) - - Today, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) published the following information:
Miami Beach-based retailer Truly Organic Inc. (Truly Organic) and its founder and CEO, Maxx Harley Appelman, will pay $1.76 million to settle a Federal Trade Commission complaint alleging that their nationally marketed bath and beauty products are neither “100% organic” nor “certified organic” by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
Truly Organic also advertises their products as vegan, even though certain products contain non-vegan ingredients like honey and lactose, according to the complaint. The court order resolving the FTC complaint bars the defendants from making similar deceptive advertising claims. ...09-19-2019, 10:37 PM -
Federal Trade Commission Seeks Comment on Proposed Rule Implementing Law Providing Free Credit Monitoring for Active Duty Military Consumers
(November 1, 2018) - - Today, the Federal Trade Commission published the following information:
The Federal Trade Commission is seeking comment on a proposed rule to implement a 2018 law requiring the nationwide consumer reporting agencies to provide free electronic credit monitoring services for active duty military consumers.
The Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act, passed earlier this year, mandated that the FTC issue a rule regarding certain requirements of the law. The FTC’s Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) proposes a rule that would require the nationwide consumer reporting agencies (CRAs) to provide a free electronic credit monitoring service that would notify active duty military members...11-05-2018, 02:26 AM -
Federal Reserve Board Announces Approval of Application by Joint Stock Commercial Bank for Foreign Trade of Vietnam
(October 29, 2018) - - The Federal Reserve Board today announced its approval of the application by Joint Stock Commercial Bank for Foreign Trade of Vietnam, Hanoi, Vietnam, to establish a representative office in New York, New York.
The Board provided an Attachment detailing its order.
Credit: Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System10-29-2018, 10:20 PM -
Federal Trade Commission Announces Sessions on Consumer Privacy and Data Security As Part of its Hearings on Competition and Consumer Protection in the 21st Century
(October 26, 2018) - - As part of its Hearings Initiative, the Federal Trade Commission will hold four days of hearings in December and February to examine the FTC’s authority to deter unfair and deceptive conduct in data security and privacy matters.
The December hearings will focus on data security and will take place December 11-12, 2018 at the FTC Constitution Center Auditorium, 400 7th St., SW, Washington, DC. The hearings on consumer privacy will take place in the same venue on February 12-13, 2019.
The data security hearings will include five panel discussions and additional discussion of research related to data breaches and data security threats. The first day’s panel discussions will examine...10-27-2018, 11:49 PM -
Federal Trade Commission Gives Final Approval to Settlement with Uber
(October 26, 2018) - - The Federal Trade Commission has given final approval to a settlement with Uber Technologies, Inc. over allegations that the ride-sharing company deceived consumers about its privacy and data security practices.
In its complaint, the FTC alleged that Uber failed to monitor employee access to consumers’ personal information on an ongoing basis and to reasonably secure sensitive consumer data it stored in the cloud. As a result of its failure to take reasonable measures to secure both rider and driver data, the company suffered two breaches. The first breach occurred in or about May 2014 when an intruder gained access to personal information about Uber drivers. Uber suffered a second, larger breach of drivers’ and riders’ data in October-November 2016, and failed to disclose...10-27-2018, 08:07 AM -
Federal Trade Commission Announces PrivacyCon 2019 and Calls for Presentations
(October 24, 2018) - - As part of its efforts to address evolving privacy and data security challenges, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is announcing a call for presentations for its fourth annual PrivacyCon, to be held on June 27, 2019. PrivacyCon 2019 aims to bring together a diverse group of stakeholders, including researchers, academics, industry representatives, consumer advocates, and government regulators, to discuss the latest research and trends related to consumer privacy and data security. “The FTC’s annual PrivacyCon event seeks to spur new research on privacy and security issues,” said Andrew Smith, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “It helps us keep our finger on the pulse of important developments in technology, economics, and consumer privacy so that we can ground our ...10-25-2018, 10:58 PM -
Texas Company Will Pay $3 million to Settle Federal Trade Commission Charges That it Failed to Meet Accuracy Requirements for its Tenant Screening Reports
(October 16, 2018) - - Today, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) published the following information: A Texas company has agreed to pay $3 million to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that the company failed to take reasonable steps to ensure the accuracy of tenant screening information that it provided to landlords and property managers, a violation of federal law that caused some potential renters to be falsely associated with criminal records. The FTC’s complaint alleges that RealPage, Inc. violated the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) by failing to take reasonable steps to ensure the accuracy of tenant screening information provided to its clients. The amount RealPage has agreed to pay as part of the settlement is the largest civil pe...10-18-2018, 03:41 AM -
Commissioner Maureen K. Ohlhausen Announces Departure from the Federal Trade Commission
Commissioner Maureen K. Ohlhausen announced her departure from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) upon the expiration of her term today. Ohlhausen was sworn in as a Commissioner on April 4, 2012, and served as Acting Chairman of the agency from January 25, 2017 to May 1, 2018. Commissioner Ohlhausen previously served the FTC in various capacities, including four years as the Director of the Office of Policy Planning. “It has been a great privilege to serve the American people through the different leadership positions I’ve held in this wonderful agency, including my time as Acting Chairman,” Commissioner Ohlhausen said. “I want to thank my fellow Commissioners and the FTC’s talented, hard-working staff, who take on the toughest challenges in protecting consumers, standing up for competition, and underst...09-25-2018, 05:11 PM -
U.S. Agriculture Secretary Perdue Statement on Signing of New KORUS Trade Agreement
Washington, DC - - (September 24, 2018) - - U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today issued the following statement regarding the signing of the new United States-Republic of Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS): “We are entering into a new KORUS agreement that is a better deal for the entire United States economy, including the agricultural sector. This represents an important improvement in trade relations between our two nations, building on long-standing cooperation we have enjoyed. This agreement adds to the momentum building for President Trump’s approach to trade, which is to stand strong for America’s interests and strike better deals. I am optimistic that the dominoes will continue to fall: KORUS, then a new NAFTA, and new agreements with the European Union, Japan, and, most notably, China. As a...09-25-2018, 02:47 AM -
Federal Trade Commission Staff Report Examines Ways to Improve Occupational License Portability Across State Lines
Report is part of the FTC’s ongoing Economic Liberty Task Force initiative to reduce or eliminate unnecessary occupational licensing requirements
(September 24, 2018) - - The Federal Trade Commission today released a staff report examining ways to reduce the burden on licensed workers moving to new states or wishing to market services across state lines.
The Report, entitled, Options to Enhance Occupational License Portability, is part of the FTC’s Economic Liberty Task Force initiative. This initiative, begun last year, aims to reduce hurdles to job growth and labor mobility by encouraging states to reduce unnecessary and overbroad occupational licensing regulation. Occupational licensing, when not necessary to further legitimate public health...09-24-2018, 01:19 PM -
Federal Trade Commission Tips: Hurricane Season
How to prepare for and recover from a storm and avoid charity scams
(September 12, 2018) - - Today, The Federal Trade Commission published the following information:
The 2018 hurricane season has arrived. The Federal Trade Commission has information to help you prepare for, deal with, and recover from the long-term impacts of a hurricane, as well as information on giving wisely to help those in need.
Preparing for a Storm- Organize your finances. Keep your financial documents up to date, accessible, and portable.
- Check your insurance. See if your home, health, or other insurance policy will cover temporary shelter, replacement clothing, furniture, out-of-network medical services, or other items.
- Flood-proof your home. Prepare for flooding by buying flood insurance and writing a
09-14-2018, 11:08 PM -
U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross Introduces a New Tool to Deliver Access to Global Steel Trade Statistics
(September 10, 2018) - - Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross announced the release of the new interactive Global Steel Trade Monitor. The monitor, developed by the Department of Commerce’s Enforcement and Compliance unit within the International Trade Administration, provides extensive and timely steel trade data for the top 20 global steel importing countries and top 20 global steel exporting countries. “Timely detailed data in user friendly formats are essential both for enforcement and for policy determinations,” said Secretary Ross. “This interactive Global Steel Trade Monitor will strengthen U.S. companies’ and the U.S. government’s ability to track trade flows to better understand the relevant trends in this essential sector.” This powerful tool g...09-14-2018, 04:10 AM -
Federal Trade Commission Announces Opening Session of Hearings on Competition and Consumer Protection in the 21st Century September 13-14 at Georgetown University Law Center
(August 24, 2018) - - The Federal Trade Commission will begin its Hearings Initiative with two full-day sessions, co-sponsored with and held at the Georgetown University Law Center, on September 13 and 14, 2018. The event will be webcast live. The Georgetown event will be the first in a series of hearings that will examine whether broad-based changes in the economy, evolving business practices, new technologies, or international developments might require adjustments to competition and consumer protection enforcement priorities of the Commission. These public events, in conjunction with the public comment process, will provide the FTC with a broad and diverse range of viewpoints and stimulate evaluation of key enforcement...09-07-2018, 09:33 PM -
U.S. Department of Labor Announces Funding Availability for Trade and Economic Transition National Dislocated Worker Grants
Washington, DC - - (August 8, 2018) - - The U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration (ETA) today announced the availability of up to $100 million for Trade and Economic Transition National Dislocated Worker Grants to provide training and career services to dislocated workers affected by major economic dislocations.
Supported by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, Trade and Economic Transition grants provide funding to states, outlying areas, eligible tribal governments and other entities to address one or more of the following events:- the economic and workforce impacts associated with job loss or employer/industrial reorganization due to trade or automation;
- the loss, significant decline, or major structural change/reorganization
08-14-2018, 07:09 AM -
Federal Trade Commission Approves Final Order Imposing Conditions on Construction Company CRH plc
As a condition of acquiring competitor Ash Grove Cement Company, CRH will divest facilities in 3 states
(August 3, 2018) - - Today, the Federal Trade Commission published the following information:
Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission has approved a final order settling charges that Dublin, Ireland-based construction company CRH plc’s $3.5 billion acquisition of its Kansas-based competitor Ash Grove Cement Company likely would be anticompetitive.
According to the complaint, which was first announced in June 2018, the acquisition likely would harm current competition in three markets: portland cement in Montana; sand and gravel in the Omaha, Nebraska/Council Bluffs, Iowa region; and crushed limestone in the Johnson County, Kansas...08-08-2018, 03:04 PM -
Federal Trade Commission Returns Money to Consumers Deceived into Buying Business Coaching Program
(June 12, 2018) - - The Federal Trade Commission is mailing 3,633 checks totaling more than $969,000 to people who lost money to a deceptive telemarketing scheme that promoted business coaching services to people who wanted to start internet businesses.
In January 2018, the Internet Teaching and Training Specialists, LLC (ITT) defendants were banned from selling business coaching services and business opportunities under a settlement with the FTC. ITT sold a business coaching program provided by Guidance Interactive, a company that also settled with the FTC. According to the FTC’s complaint, despite these defendants’ promises, most of their customers did not develop a successful online business, and instead ended up in debt. Each check is worth $266.78. Recipients ...06-16-2018, 02:03 PM -
Federal Trade Commission Staff Submits Comment to Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission
(May 30, 2018) - - The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) staff has submitted a comment to the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) on a proposed rulemaking that would update rules and regulations that provide retail electricity pricing transparency to residential and small commercial electricity customers. The staff comment, representing the views of the agency’s Office of the General Counsel, Office of Policy Planning, and Bureau of Economics, supports the PUC’s efforts to preserve the ability of residential and small commercial electricity customers to choose dynamic pricing plans. By requiring electricity retailers to provide accurate and clear information to such customers, the PUC helps customers make more informed decisions in choosing such plans. Regarding a proposal to revise disclosure ...05-31-2018, 02:23 AM -
Federal Trade Commission Chairman Joe Simons Adds to Agency’s Leadership Team
(May 16, 2018) - - Today, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that FTC Chairman Joseph Simons has made four appointments to the agency’s senior leadership team. “I am delighted to appoint such a stellar group of leaders to continue the FTC’s work on behalf of American consumers,” Simons said. “Each of these highly qualified professionals has the knowledge and skills to do an outstanding job, working closely with the agency’s talented career staff.” Andrew Smith will serve as Director of the agency’s Bureau of Consumer Protection, beginning next week. He will join the agency from Covington & Burling, where he was a Partner and Co-Chair of the Financial Services Practice Group. He is the Chair of the American Bar Association's Consumer Financial Services Committee, and a Fellow...05-17-2018, 11:34 PM -
Joseph Simons Sworn in as Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission
Joseph J. Simons
(May 1, 2018) - - Joseph Simons was sworn in today as Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission. President Donald J. Trump named Simons, a Republican, to a term on the Commission that expires September 25, 2024, and designated him as Chairman. Simons was confirmed by the U.S. Senate on April 26, 2018. “It is a great honor to lead the FTC, an agency that plays a key role in protecting American consumers and promoting competition in the U.S. economy,” Simons said. “I want to express my gratitude to Acting Chairman Ohlhausen for her outstanding work as head of the Commission for the last 15 months, and for her continued service as a Commissioner. I am excited to work with such an accomplished group of incoming Commissioners, as well.” Chairman Simons noted that, under Ohlhausen�...05-02-2018, 08:04 PM -
Joint Statement of U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross and European Commissioner for Trade Cecilia Malmström
(March 21, 2018) - - Today the U.S. Department of Commerce published the following "Joint Statement of U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross and European Commissioner for Trade Cecilia Malmström":
“We have agreed to launch immediately a process of discussion with President Trump and the Trump Administration on trade issues of common concern, including steel and aluminum, with a view to identifying mutually acceptable outcomes as rapidly as possible.”
Courtesy: U.S. Department of Commerce
03-22-2018, 08:05 AM -
AFL-CIO says Targeted Tariffs Are Best Way to Fight Trade Cheaters
March 8, 2018
AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka issued the following statement after President Donald Trump’s announcement on steel and aluminum tariffs this afternoon: Wall Street’s hair is on fire over these tariffs because wealthy investors enrich themselves by closing mills and factories in the United States and moving them overseas. Using tariffs isn’t going to start a trade war. There’s been a war on working people for decades, and we have been getting our butts kicked. Just look at southwestern Pennsylvania if you want proof. Tariffs are a commonsense mechanism for trade enforcement and the best way to start fighting back. Today, there are more than 435 tariffs already in place combating trade cheaters. This isn’t about partisan politics. The labor movement is a politically indepe...03-09-2018, 08:00 AM -
Federal Trade Commission Halts Alleged Imposter Scheme that it says Falsely Claimed Connection to the Agency
(April 11, 2017) - - The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has obtained a preliminary injunction that bars a Florida man from illegally deceiving consumers by falsely claiming to be offering tech support services on behalf of the FTC.
According to the complaint filed by the FTC, Daniel “Danny” Croft has been misleading consumers by falsely telling them that his fake companies, PC Guru Tech Support (often called PC Guru) and Elite Tech Support, were hired by the FTC to contact consumers and remove malicious software installed on their computers by companies he falsely claimed were shut down by the FTC.
The FTC said Croft contacted consumers by email and used fake FTC press releases and the names of FTC staff to trick consumers into contacting him so he could try to sell them unnecessary tech support services, the agency charged....04-12-2017, 12:29 AM -
U.S. Customs and Border Protection to Implement Executive Order Establishing Enhanced Collection and Enforcement of Antidumping and Countervailing Duties and Violations of Trade and Customs Laws
Washington, DC - - (March 31, 2017) - - U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will begin to implement the Executive Order “Establishing Enhanced Collection and Enforcement of Antidumping and Countervailing Duties and Violations of Trade and Customs Laws.” The Executive Order, signed today, promotes the efficient and effective administration of U.S. customs and trade laws by establishing enhanced measures to collect duties and a heightened enforcement posture for trade violations that threaten the safety and economic security of the United States.
“The men and women of CBP are committed to enforcing the trade laws of the United States to defend the economic competitiveness of domestic industries against unfair trade practices and dangerous...04-10-2017, 10:20 PM -
Statement From U.S. Secretary Of Commerce Wilbur Ross on International Trade in Goods and Services in January 2017
Washington, DC - - (March 7, 2017) - - U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross issued the following statement today on the release of the January 2017 U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services monthly data. The trade deficit in January stood at $48.5 billion, a 9.6 percent increase from December. U.S. imports of goods and services increased to $240.6 billion in January from $235.3 billion in December. U.S. exports of goods and services increased to $192.1 billion in January from $191.0 billion in December.
In January 2017, the trade deficit for goods and services was 11.8 percent higher as compared to January 2016, increasing from $43.4 billion to $48.5 billion. During this period, the largest drivers of the change in the trade deficit were consumer and capital goods. Imports were $18.4 billion higher, driven by $16.3 billion...03-07-2017, 01:26 PM -
Federal Trade Commission Releases Annual Summary of Consumer Complaints
Imposter scams are now the second most common source of consumer complaints
(March 3, 2017)
Imposter scam complaints surpassed identity theft for the first time as the second most common category of consumer complaints received by the Federal Trade Commission’s Consumer Sentinel Network in 2016, according to the agency’s new Data Book. Although debt collection complaints declined slightly between 2015 and 2016, they remained the top consumer complaint category, comprising 28 percent of all complaints. The high number of reported debt collection complaints was due in part to complaints submitted by a data contributor who collects complaints via a mobile app. The rise in impostor scam reports is due to an increase in complaints about government imposters. Imposter scams come in many varieties, but work the same way: a scammer pretends to b...03-07-2017, 12:35 AM -
Federal Trade Commission Announces Agenda for March 9 FinTech Forum on Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain Technology
February 28, 2017
Washington, DC - - (February 27, 2017) - - The Federal Trade Commission today announced the agenda for its March 9, 2017, FinTech Forum focusing on the consumer implications of two rapidly developing technologies: artificial intelligence and blockchain. The forum, which is the third in an ongoing event series, will take place from 9:00 a.m. to approximately 12:30 p.m. Pacific Time in Berkeley, California. The event will bring together industry representatives, consumer advocates, government officials, and others with expertise regarding these technologies. The half-day forum will feature two panel discussions. The first panel will focus on the potential benefits and risks for consumers with the use of artificial intelligence, which involves the capability of machines to mimic human thinking or...02-28-2017, 12:19 AM -
Joint Statement of Federal Communications Commission Commissioner Mignon Clyburn and Federal Trade Commission Commissioner Terrell McSweeny
On Indefinite Suspension of Data Security Rules
February 27, 2017
Washington, DC - - (February 24, 2017) - - “Today Chairman Pai has created an unfortunate dilemma: accept a Bureau-level action that indefinitely unwinds key consumer privacy protections established by the FCC last year, or accept four business days (rather than the usual three weeks) to evaluate and vote on a decision that has massive ramifications for the security of private information held by broadband providers,” said FCC Commissioner Mignon Clyburn.
“I am very troubled by the news that the data security protections of the Broadband Privacy Rule will be put on hold. What this means, in effect, is that consumers with a broadband subscription will be less protected because the only cop on...02-27-2017, 09:29 AM -
Federal Trade Commission and States Put Remaining Defendants in Massive Caribbean Cruise Lines Robocall Operation in Permanent Dry Dock
February 22, 2017
Editor's note: The Federal Trade Commission published the following information:
Washington, DC - - (February 21, 2017) - - The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and 10 states have closed the book on the remaining defendants who assisted a Florida-based cruise line company in running an illegal telemarketing campaign that flooded consumers with billions of unwanted robocalls. In settling the charges, Fred Accuardi and his companies are barred from robocalling and illegal telemarketing, as well as helping anyone else make such calls. In early 2015, the FTC and its state partners alleged that that the companies involved in the scheme illegally sold cruise vacations using political survey robocalls. The FTC and states filed charges against—and reached settlements with—most...02-22-2017, 09:03 PM -
The World Trade Organization says Trade Facilitation Agreement Enters into Force
Genève, Switzerland - - (22 February 2017) - - According to the World Trade Organization (WTO), a major milestone for the global trading system was reached on 22 February 2017 when the first multilateral deal concluded in the 21 year history of the World Trade Organization entered into force. In receiving four more ratifications for the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), the WTO has obtained the two-thirds acceptance of the agreement from its 164 members needed to bring the TFA into force. The WTO says Rwanda, Oman, Chad and Jordan submitted their instruments of acceptance to WTO Director-General Roberto Azevêdo, bringing the total number of ratifications over the required threshold of 110. The entry into force of this agreement, which seeks to expedite the movement, release and clearance of goods across borders, launches a new phase for trade facilitation reforms all...02-22-2017, 03:25 PM -
Federal Trade Commission Settlement Puts a Stop to Money Mule Who Profited from India-Based IRS and Other Scams
February 16, 2017
Washiington, DC - - (February 15, 2017) - - A Florida man charged with helping telemarketers in India defraud cash-strapped American consumers will be banned from aiding any telemarketers in a settlement with the Federal Trade Commission. The proposed settlement resolves an FTC complaint against Joel S. Treuhaft and his company, PHLG Enterprises, LLC, who collected more than $1.5 million from about 3,000 consumers in a scheme that helped Indian call centers collect money from victims of IRS tax scams, government grant scams and advance-fee loan scams, among others. “The scammers behind these call centers relied on PHLG and its runners to get consumers’ money,” said Jessica Rich, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “Stopping companies that assist and facilitate f...02-16-2017, 05:25 PM -
Federal Trade Commission Requests Public Comment on Application from SuperValu Inc. to Sell Supermarket Divested by Safeway and Albertsons
February 13, 2017
Washington, DC - - (February 10, 2017 - - The Federal Trade Commission is accepting public comments on an application from SuperValu Inc. to sell one of two supermarkets it bought when Safeway and Albertsons merged in 2015 and were required by the agency to divest 168 stores. Under the FTC’s final decision and order in that merger case, SuperValu is required for three years to obtain Commission approval before selling any stores it bought as part of the divestiture. SuperValu also is required to sell only to a buyer approved by the Commission. SuperValu requests approval to sell Albertson’s Store No. 477, in Lake Stevens, Washington, to Saar’s Inc. The divestiture application notes that Saar's is a value-driven supermarket retailer headquartered ...02-13-2017, 10:57 AM -
Operators of Online ‘High Schools’ Settle FTC Charges That They Misled Tens of Thousands Consumers with Fake Diplomas
Settlements ban defendants from selling or marketing academic degree or certification programs
- - (February 10, 2017) - - The operators of two online “high schools” have agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that they falsely claimed to be accredited schools but actually were little more than diploma mills that sold worthless pieces of paper.
The settlements resolve charges the FTC brought in February 2016 against Capitol Network Distance Learning Programs and Stepping Stonez Development, LLC, two separate diploma mills that used names like Capitol High School, Aberdeen Academy, West Madison Falls High School, Columbia Northern High School, and Heritage Western High School.
Under the terms of the settlements, the defendants are banned from...02-10-2017, 05:08 PM -
VIZIO to Pay $2.2 Million to Federal Trade Commission, State of New Jersey to Settle Charges It Collected Viewing Histories on 11 Million Smart Televisions without Users’ Consent
February 8, 2017
Washington, DC - - (February 6, 2017) - - VIZIO, Inc., one of the world’s largest manufacturers and sellers of internet-connected “smart” televisions, has agreed to pay $2.2 million to settle charges by the Federal Trade Commission and the Office of the New Jersey Attorney General that it installed software on its TVs to collect viewing data on 11 million consumer TVs without consumers’ knowledge or consent.
The stipulated federal court order requires VIZIO to prominently disclose and obtain affirmative express consent for its data collection and sharing practices, and prohibits misrepresentations about the privacy, security, or confidentiality of consumer information they collect. It also requires the company to delete...02-08-2017, 08:20 AM -
Federal Trade Commission Releases New Report on Cross-Device Tracking
Staff recommends transparency and choice for consumers when companies track them across devices
Washington, DC - - (January 23, 2017) - - The Federal Trade Commission has released Cross-Device Tracking: An FTC Staff Report that describes the technology used to track consumers across multiple Internet-connected devices, the benefits and challenges associated with it, and industry efforts to address those challenges. The report concludes by making recommendations to industry about how to apply traditional principles like transparency, choice, and security to this relatively new practice.
The report draws upon comments and discussions from a November 2015 Cross-Device Tracking Workshop and explains that cross-device tracking associates multiple devices with the same consumer and links a consumer’s activity across her devices (e.g., smartphones, tablets,...01-23-2017, 04:10 PM