Federal Trade Commission

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is an independent agency of the United States federal government, created by the Federal Trade Commission Act of 1914. It is led by commissioners appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate, with one designated as Chair, and operates through divisions focused on competition and consumer protection. The FTC enforces laws against unfair methods of competition and unfair or deceptive acts and practices in commerce. Its activities include reviewing mergers, investigating business conduct, bringing administrative and court actions, issuing rules, and pursuing consumer-protection matters such as advertising and privacy. It shares antitrust enforcement with the Department of Justice. The Commission acts within the limits of its statutory authority, and its decisions and rules are subject to judicial review.