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 California, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) operates to safeguard consumers and maintain a competitive marketplace by preventing anticompetitive, deceptive, and unfair business practices. The FTC has jurisdiction over consumer protection and competition in various economic sectors and engages in law enforcement to uphold these standards. It also provides guidance to both federal and state legislatures, as well as domestic and international agencies, to promote consumer interests. The FTC conducts policy development and research, organizes hearings, workshops, and conferences, and offers educational resources for consumers and businesses. The FTC's efforts in California are supported by its Bureaus of Consumer Protection, Competition, and Economics, along with the Office of General Counsel and regional offices. The FTC's presence in California is crucial for ensuring that businesses operate fairly and consumers are well-informed and protected.