In Amazon antitrust lawsuit, FTC’s Section 5 powers could be tested
The Federal Trade Commission’s new Amazon complaint raises a question about whether the agency intends to push its power to police “unfair” behavior by firms that doesn’t fall clearly within the scope of the Sherman Act.
Is AI the enforcer’s friend?
We have been reading a steady stream of stories about the consumer dangers posed by artificial intelligence, so perhaps it’s time to think about the ways that AI may help enforcement efforts.
Current Issue: 1057
FTC had funding to stay open for three weeks if shutdown happened
While the government avoided a shutdown when Congress passed a stopgap measure on Saturday, if lawmakers hadn’t acted, the immediate impact on the Federal Trade Commission and Department of Justice...
FTC confirmation session touches on the political, personal and procedural
A Senate confirmation hearing on the Federal Trade Commission featured sharp criticism over agency practices as well as some unscripted, light moments.
Scams using payment apps spark consumer warning
The Federal Trade Commission cautioned consumers about scammers using mobile payment apps, and money transfer companies have responded by creating educational resources for customers.
Tax preparers put on notice about misusing data
Five tax preparation companies received warnings from the Federal Trade Commission they could face civil penalties if they misuse confidential data collected from consumers.
Lawsuits by Wright, accusers show areas of agreement amid the clashes
In dueling lawsuits, former Federal Trade Commission member Joshua Wright and two of his former students agree that both had sexual relationships with him while he was married. They disagree on...
FTC’s reopening of Microsoft-Activision administrative trial a departure from precedent
The Federal Trade Commission is reopening an administrative procedure after it agreed to withdraw from adjudication, an unprecedented move in modern times after losing a request for a preliminary...
A fascinating, maddening guide to ‘dark patterns’
Harry Brignull, a British user experience designer, coined the phrase “dark patterns” back in 2010, referring to the persistent practice of websites and apps manipulating consumers into taking actions they might not otherwise have intended.