Last week, the FTC sent another 50 warning letters related to COVID-19 advertising claims, adding to the growing list of FTC warnings and actions intended to address false and deceptive marketing during the pandemic. The latest round of letters targets
Consumer Protection Review
The latest legal updates in marketing, consumer products & consumer protection
Consumer Protection Review, published by Perkins Coie LLP, focuses on legal developments and regulatory trends affecting consumer protection law. The blog covers topics such as advertising and marketing compliance, deceptive and unfair trade practices, privacy and data security issues, product safety and liability, consumer fraud enforcement, and regulatory actions by agencies like the FTC and FDA. It also addresses emerging issues including AI in advertising, junk fees legislation, and protections for vulnerable populations such as children in digital marketing. The blog provides updates on state and federal laws, enforcement guidance, and compliance strategies relevant to businesses and legal practitioners in the consumer protection space.
Latest from Consumer Protection Review - Page 10
FTC Stops Online Subscription Service Offering “Free” Trials with Hidden Terms
A global marketer who charged consumers after they signed up for “free trials” has settled with the FTC. The FTC alleged that the defendants made $74 million by enrolling customers for paid subscriptions of cosmetics and dietary supplements without their…
ESRB Issues Labeling Requirement for Video Games Containing Loot Boxes
The ESRB, and it’s European equivalent PEGI, have issued new labeling requirements for video games containing loot boxes or other types of in-game purchases with randomized elements. The new labeling designation of “In-Game Purchases (Includes Random Items)” includes, but is…
Fashion Nova Settles with FTC for $9.3 Million for Alleged Violations of the Mail Order Rule
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recently announced a settlement with online fashion retailer, Fashion Nova, requiring it to pay $9.3 million in refunds to consumers for violations of the FTC’s Mail, Internet, or Telephone Order Merchandise Rule (“Mail Order…
Notable Ruling: No Jury for False Advertising and UCL Suits, California Supreme Court Rules
California courts remain a top forum for food litigation matters. So many matters are heard in the Northern District of California that it has gained a reputation as the “Food Court.” Now, the California Supreme Court has held that two…
More FTC Civil Enforcement for COVID-19 and CBD Cancer Treatment Claims
On April 28, 2020, the FTC announced a preliminary order in a civil enforcement action against a supplement manufacturer that allegedly made false and unsubstantiated claims regarding COVID-19 and cancer. Specifically, the FTC alleged that Whole Leaf Organics had marketed…
National Advertising Division Launches Fast-Track Swift Process
On April 2, 2020 the National Advertising Division (NAD) launched its Fast-Track SWIFT (Single Well-defined Issue Fast Track) resolution process, promising to resolve single-issue cases in 20 business days. An overview follows.
What is NAD? NAD is an organization within…
Industry Insights: Consumer Products Companies Reconfiguring Production Lines to Meet New COVID-19 Needs
Consumers’ response to COVID-19 has led to increased demand for personal protective equipment and other much-needed supplies to aid consumers and healthcare professionals in the fight against the disease. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer is one such product, with the U.S. Centers…
$1 Million Settlement Announced in FTC’s “Made in USA” Enforcement Against Williams-Sonoma
The FTC has announced a settlement with furniture and houseware seller Williams-Sonoma, requiring it to cease making unsubstantiated “Made in USA” claims about its products and pay $1 million to the FTC.
Williams-Sonoma previously received a warning letter from the…
FTC Sends More Warning Letters Regarding Unsupported Coronavirus Prevention and Treatment Claims
The FTC recently sent another round of warning letters to ten sellers related to advertising claims that their products treat or prevent COVID-19. Consistent with prior warning letters jointly issued by the FDA and FTC, the FTC’s letters allege that…