Which federal agency is primarily responsible for consumer protection?

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is primarily responsible for consumer protection because its main mission is to promote consumer protection and prevent anticompetitive business practices. Established in 1914, the FTC takes action against unfair or deceptive practices in the marketplace, ensuring that consumers are treated fairly and have access to accurate information about products and services.

The FTC also works to enforce laws that protect consumer rights, such as the Truth in Advertising laws, which require that advertisements be truthful and not misleading. Additionally, the agency addresses various issues related to consumer privacy and data security.

While other agencies such as the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) focus on specific areas of consumer protection—mainly related to financial products—the FTC has a broader mandate that encompasses various sectors and industries. Consequently, it serves as the primary federal agency dedicated to consumer protection across a wide range of consumer interests.