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 Virginia, as in all states, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) plays a critical role in protecting consumers and ensuring a competitive marketplace. The FTC enforces federal consumer protection and antitrust laws, preventing anticompetitive, deceptive, and unfair business practices. It operates through its Bureaus of Consumer Protection, Competition, and Economics, with support from the Office of General Counsel and regional offices. The FTC's law enforcement actions can range from filing lawsuits to halt illegal activities to seeking monetary redress for consumers. Additionally, the FTC engages in advocacy, policy development, and education to advance consumer interests, often collaborating with state legislatures and agencies to enhance consumer protection at the state level. Virginia businesses and consumers are subject to both the FTC's regulations and state-specific consumer protection laws enforced by the Virginia Attorney General's office.