United States of America: Issued FTC request to social media and video streaming platforms on measures to address advertising for fraudulent products and scams

On 16 March 2023, the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requested eight social media and video streaming platforms for information regarding measures to address advertising of fraudulent products and scams within 45 days. Companies were requested to provide information on how the companies scrutinise and restrict paid commercial advertising that is deceptive or exposes consumers to fraudulent healthcare products, financial scams, counterfeit and fake goods, or other fraud. In addition, the FTC is seeking information about how social media and video streaming companies ensure that consumers are able to identify commercial advertising on their platforms as advertising. Finally, the FTC also seeks information on how these platforms help consumers distinguish advertising and other commercial messages from other types of content, including disclosure tools for endorsers and influencers. The orders have been issued to Meta Platforms, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, Snap, Twitter, Pinterest, and Twitch. The entities have 45 days to submit to the FTC a Special Report providing information on their practices and actions taken to combat misleading advertisements and fraudulent and counterfeit products.