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 Rhode Island, as in all states, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) plays a crucial role in protecting consumers and ensuring fair competition. The FTC enforces federal consumer protection and antitrust laws, preventing deceptive, unfair, and anticompetitive business practices. While the FTC operates at the federal level, its actions impact consumers and businesses in Rhode Island. The agency engages in law enforcement against entities that violate these laws and provides guidance and education to both consumers and businesses. The FTC's work is supported by specialized bureaus and regional offices, which may collaborate with state authorities, such as the Rhode Island Attorney General's office, to address local issues. Rhode Island businesses and consumers benefit from the FTC's efforts to maintain a fair marketplace, and they can seek recourse or report violations to the FTC. Additionally, the state's own laws and regulations on consumer protection and competition complement the FTC's enforcement activities.