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 West Virginia (WV), 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. While the FTC operates at the federal level, its actions impact consumers and businesses in WV. The agency conducts law enforcement, provides guidance to legislatures, and collaborates with state agencies to align federal and state consumer protection efforts. The FTC's consumer protection efforts are particularly relevant in WV, where state laws also aim to protect consumers from unfair trade practices. The FTC's educational programs and resources are available to WV consumers and businesses to help them understand their rights and responsibilities under the law. The FTC's regional offices, although not located in WV, serve the Southeast region and can assist with local matters. It's important for consumers and businesses in WV to be aware of the FTC's role and to utilize its resources when facing issues related to consumer protection or competition.