The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) seeks to protect consumers and competition by preventing anticompetitive, deceptive, and unfair business practices through law enforcement, advocacy, and education.

The FTC is the only federal agency with both consumer protection and competition jurisdiction in broad sectors of the economy. The FTC pursues vigorous and effective law enforcement; advances consumers’ interests by sharing its expertise with federal and state legislatures and U.S. and international government agencies; develops policy and research tools through hearings, workshops, and conferences; and creates practical and plain-language educational programs for consumers and businesses in a global marketplace with constantly changing technologies. FTC’s work is performed by the Bureaus of Consumer Protection, Competition, and Economics. That work is aided by the Office of General Counsel and seven regional offices.

In Alabama, as in all states, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) plays a crucial role in protecting consumers and maintaining competition. The FTC enforces federal consumer protection and antitrust laws, preventing anticompetitive, deceptive, and unfair business practices. It does not create state statutes but works within the framework of federal law to oversee and regulate business practices. The FTC's jurisdiction spans many sectors of the economy, and it engages in law enforcement actions, policy development, research, and education. The FTC's efforts in Alabama are supported by its Bureaus of Consumer Protection, Competition, and Economics, as well as legal guidance from the Office of General Counsel and outreach through its regional offices. While the FTC operates federally, it often collaborates with state attorneys general and other state agencies to enforce laws and protect the interests of consumers within Alabama.