What types of advertising are regulated by the Federal Trade Commission?

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regulates any advertising that is considered to be deceptive or misleading. This includes false claims about products and services, false and/or unsubstantiated health or safety claims, false or deceptive pricing, and misleading endorsements and/or testimonials. The FTC also regulates the use of “bait and switch” tactics, as well as promotional offers that cannot be fulfilled. In California, the FTC also regulates advertising aimed at children under the age of 12, such as products marketed as toys or educational material. Any type of advertising that could be deemed as manipulative or that appeals to children’s emotions or a sense of vulnerability is subject to strict FTC standards. Additionally, any type of advertising that includes the use of unfair or deceptive practices, such as hidden fees or terms that are not clearly disclosed, is also regulated by the FTC. Advertising that falls under the jurisdiction of the FTC must meet certain standards in order to be considered truthful and not misleading. Companies must present clear and factual information in their ads, and any claims that are made must be supported by evidence. Companies must also make sure that any endorsements or testimonials they use are genuine and not deceptive. Lastly, businesses must always update their ads to ensure that they remain accurate and up-to-date in order to comply with FTC rules.

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