United States of America: Implemented FTC Trade Regulation Rule on Impersonation of Government and Businesses

On 1 April 2024, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Trade Regulation Rule on Impersonation of Government and Businesses is implemented. The rule prohibits the false impersonation of a government entity or officer. It also prohibits the misrepresentation of affiliation with, including endorsement or sponsorship by, a government entity or officer. Furthermore, under the rule, the FTC will have the power to initiate federal court proceedings directly to compel persons found to impersonate government entities to reimburse the proceeds obtained from fraudulent actions.