What Is the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)?

Federal Trade Commission (FTC)

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is a government agency established in 1914 to prevent anticompetitive, deceptive, or unfair business practices. The FTC is defined as having a dual mission of: (1) protecting consumers; and (2) promoting competition. Agency expertise and resources are available to federal and state legislatures, as well as other U.S. government agencies. The FTC enforces consumer protection and antitrust laws, and also works to advance consumers’ interests and provide educational programs.

Defining the Federal Trade Commission Act

The FTC is an agency that administers specific laws and regulations, including the Federal Trade Commission Act. This act gives the agency certain powers, including the ability to:

• Prevent unfair competition
• Prevent unfair or deceptive acts affecting commerce
• Define unfair or deceptive practices
• Establish requirements to help prevent these types of practices

Electronic privacy and identify theft fall under the umbrella of the Federal Trade Commission Act.