What Is The Federal Trade Commission?

The internet has been very helpful with connecting businesses to their customers. Marketing and advertising over the internet has become increasingly popular over the last several years. As a result, the Federal Trade Commission has to enforce tons of laws everyday on internet marketing and advertising. The Federal Trade Commission Act was passed to prevent deceptive and unfair practices against consumers. Section 5 of the Acts defines deceptive practices as anything misleading as well as anything that would have an effect on the consumers’ decision about the service or product.

The Federal Trade Commission Act states that all claims made in advertisements must be substantiated. When it involves matters that concern safety, health or performance, it is even more important that the claims are valid.  The Federal Trade Commission Act assures that consumers are told the truth and aren’t misleading in any type of advertisements that they are sent over the internet. They hold all sellers responsible for all claims that they make about their products. The act says that all disclaimers and disclosures must be clear and concise, and that the consumer can notice, read, hear, and understand them. 

The Federal Trade Commission makes sure that people who are promised refunds if they are dissatisfied receive them. The Federal Trade Commission Act also hold third party advertising agency, catalog marketers, and website designers accountable for their actions as well.

The Federal Trade Commission is involved in protecting consumers’ privacy online. A few of the other laws that the Federal Trade Commission has implemented are The Fair Credit Billing Act, The Equal Credit Opportunity Act, The Electronic Fund Transfer Act, and The Consumer Leasing Act. Some of the other areas that The Federal Trade Commission oversees are environmental claims,  telemarketing, 900 numbers, testimonials and endorsements, warranties, guarantees, negative option offers and offers for free products.

The long term affect that all of the rules and guidelines that the Federal Trade Commission implements assure the fair treatment of consumers. They help to keep consumers from being mislead or ripped off. They have continued to protect consumers receiving online advertisements and reassure them that they are safe.