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

On 30 April 2023, the deadline for the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC)'s request for information to eight social media and video streaming platforms regarding measures to address advertising of fraudulent products and scams is implemented. Companies were requested to provide information on the practices and actions taken to restrict paid commercial advertising that is deceptive or exposes consumers to fraudulent healthcare products, financial scams, counterfeit and fake goods, or other fraud. In particular, the FTC required entities to provide information about how they ensure that consumers are able to identify commercial advertising on their platforms as advertising. Furthermore, the FTC also sought 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, which had 45 days to submit to the FTC a Special Report providing the required information.