📅 2026 Update: Changes in Consumer Protection Against Deceptive Advertising

Since the original article was published, several important changes have occurred in consumer protection laws regarding deceptive advertising. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has introduced new rules and taken action against companies that engage in misleading practices. These updates are vital for consumers to understand their rights.

The details of the earlier article can be found further down the page. Here are some key updates since then.

📜 🚫 New FTC Rules on Deceptive Fees

In May 2025, the FTC's Rule on Unfair or Deceptive Fees took effect. This rule prohibits businesses from misrepresenting total prices and fees for live-event tickets and short-term lodging. It aims to ensure that consumers see the complete price upfront, helping to prevent bait-and-switch tactics.

  • 🏷️ Transparency: Businesses must disclose all charges known at the time of the advertisement.

💵 💳 Civil Penalties for Fake Reviews

In August 2024, the FTC announced a final rule banning the sale or purchase of fake reviews and testimonials. This change allows the agency to seek civil penalties against violators. Consumers can feel more confident that the reviews they read are genuine.

  • ⚖️ Accountability: Companies caught using fake reviews may face fines.

🏥 💰 Action Against Deceptive Telehealth Practices

In December 2025, the FTC approved a final order against NextMed, a telehealth provider. The company was required to stop deceptive advertising for weight-loss programs and pay $150,000, which is expected to be used for consumer refunds.

  • 📉 Consumer Protection: This order aims to protect consumers from misleading health claims.

🛡️ 🖥️ Rise in Cyber Scams

A study by Consumer Reports in October 2026 revealed that 9 in 10 Americans were targeted by a cyberattack or digital scam attempt. This highlights the ongoing issue of deceptive advertising in digital spaces. Consumers should stay vigilant to protect themselves from scams.

  • 🕵️ Awareness: Recognizing the signs of scams can help consumers avoid falling victim.

📌 Summary of Key Updates

  • 📅 New FTC rules on deceptive fees took effect in May 2025.
  • 🚫 Fake reviews are now subject to civil penalties as of August 2024.
  • 💰 A $150,000 order against NextMed was issued in December 2025 for deceptive practices.
  • 🖥️ Cyber scams are prevalent, with 90% of Americans targeted as of October 2026.

💡 Tips for Navigating Consumer Rights

Review the details of your situation with your attorney to understand your rights and options.

📄 🕵️‍♀️ Research Advertising Claims

Always check advertising claims for accuracy. If a deal seems too good to be true, it might be misleading. Look for reviews and ratings from other consumers.

🔍 📞 Report Deceptive Practices

If you encounter deceptive advertising, report it to the FTC. They take such complaints seriously and may investigate the business involved.

🎟️ 💳 Understand Pricing Policies

Be aware of the FTC's rule on unfair or deceptive fees. Ensure you know the total cost of tickets or services before making a purchase.

💻 ⚠️ Stay Vigilant Online

With a high number of cyber scams, always use secure websites when providing personal information. Look for signs of scams, such as poor grammar or urgent requests for payment.

📰 📞 Utilize Consumer Reports

Stay informed about consumer issues through resources like Consumer Reports. Their studies can provide insights into current trends in deceptive advertising.

📞 🆘 Seek Refunds Promptly

If you believe you have been a victim of deceptive advertising, request a cancellation or refund as soon as possible. The FTC requires businesses to honor such requests under certain conditions.

🏆 Free Options Ranked by User Reviews (2026)

No national paid service met the review threshold in this area. Instead, this section lists free government and nonprofit resources available to consumers seeking help with deceptive advertising issues.

🥇 1. Federal Trade Commission (FTC)

The FTC is a government agency focused on protecting consumers. They provide resources and guidance on reporting deceptive advertising practices. Consumers can file complaints and learn about their rights.

🥈 2. Consumer Reports

Consumer Reports offers valuable information on various products and services. They conduct studies on consumer issues, including deceptive advertising. Their insights can help consumers make informed decisions.

🥉 3. Consumer Federation of America (CFA)

The CFA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to consumer advocacy. They file lawsuits and take action against companies that engage in deceptive practices. Consumers can access resources and support through their website.

4️⃣ Better Business Bureau (BBB)

The BBB helps consumers find trustworthy businesses and resolve disputes. They provide a platform for consumers to report deceptive practices and read about businesses’ reputations. Their resources can guide consumers in making safe choices.

🔎 What to Check Before Paying for Help

  • 🔍 Verify credentials of anyone offering help.
  • 📃 Read reviews from other consumers about their experiences.
  • 💵 Check for fees and ensure transparency in pricing.
  • 🔒 Confirm security measures are in place for your information.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What should I do if I see misleading advertising?

If you see misleading advertising, report it to the FTC. They investigate such claims and take action against businesses.

🤔 How does the FTC enforce advertising rules?

The FTC enforces advertising rules by investigating complaints and can impose civil penalties on violators. They also issue rules to protect consumers.

🛑 Are there penalties for companies using fake reviews?

Yes, the FTC can impose civil penalties on companies that sell or buy fake reviews. This helps maintain trust in consumer feedback.

📅 When did the new rules on deceptive fees take effect?

The FTC's Rule on Unfair or Deceptive Fees took effect on May 12, 2025. This rule aims to protect consumers from misleading pricing practices.

❗ How can I protect myself from online scams?

To protect yourself from online scams, always use secure websites and look for signs of deceptive practices. Be cautious when sharing personal information.

📞 What resources are available for consumers?

There are several free resources available, including the FTC, Consumer Reports, and the Consumer Federation of America. These organizations provide guidance and support for consumers facing deceptive advertising issues.

⚖️ Recent Cases Related to Deceptive Advertising

Recent court rulings highlight ongoing efforts to combat deceptive advertising practices. These rulings are significant in protecting consumers' rights against misleading claims.

You can browse for more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update





Deceptive Advertising Definition

Deceptive advertising refers to the use of confusing or untrue statements by advertisers in an attempt to mislead the consumer. It is also known as false advertising. Advertising and consumer law function to protect the consumer and promote truth in advertising.

Truth in labeling is a concept in advertising and consumer law that mandates that all important information that a consumer should reasonably be aware of will be printed on the label of a product. This will ensure that consumers are well aware of the product they are purchasing and reduces consumer manipulation by advertisers and manufacturers.

There are several ways that businesses will use deceptive advertising, including: hidden fees and surcharges, bait and switch, misleading sales advertisements, and manipulation of the standards. Manufacturers may attempt to use vague language in order to confuse a consumer.

Deceptive Advertising Overview



Bait-And-Switch Advertising

The bait and switch is a type of fraudulent advertising where advertisers will lure in a customer with the bait and then switch the deal so that the consumer ends up purchasing a higher priced item. A manufacturer may bait someone with the promise of a product at a very low price.

Once the customer is hooked, the manufacturer will change the arrangement by claiming the product is no longer available at that price. The idea is that the seller has already drawn in the customer, so there is little chance that he or she will lose the customer even when the deal is changed. 

Consumer law allows for customers who have been a victim of the bait and switch to take action against the advertiser in court. If it is proven that the defendant has engaged in fraudulent advertising, then the plaintiff can be awarded damages. The bait and switch is considered to be false advertising because the manufacturer actually has no intention of selling the given item at the advertised price. 



Online Deceptive Advertising

Deceptive advertising is a practice that has been ongoing for centuries. However, with technological advances, such as the Internet, online deceptive advertising has become more and more prevalent. Radio, television, and online advertising have become the major outlets for manufacturers to promote their products.

There are three main types of fraudulent online advertising: blatant misstatement of the facts, hidden fees and surcharges, and false claim-belief interaction. Claim-belief interaction occurs when an advertiser's misleading claim results in an untrue assumption by the consumer.

Many claims of online advertising fraud relate to privacy protection. When a consumer makes an online purchase with a credit card, this information will not always be kept confidential. Also, many Internet sites will make claims of false investments or ways that an individual can make money by working at home. Many of these claims prove to be false.  



FTC Regulations Against Deception

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), established in 1914, is tasked with protecting the rights of consumers. The FTC will create and enforce legislation that governs commercial practices. One division of the FTC, the Bureau of Consumer Protection, is most responsible for protecting the privacy of consumers and prohibiting deceptive advertising practices. 

The National Do Not Call List is a major piece of legislation developed by the FTC that protects consumer privacy against telemarketing phone calls. A citizen may call the phone number for the Do Not Call List and request to be added to the list. After a period of 31 days, telemarketing companies will no longer be able to call the phone numbers on this list. Once registered, the phone number will become permanently restricted from telemarketers. However, a consumer may still continue to receive calls from political organizations, charities, and businesses with which they have a previous relationship.  



Telemarketing & Electronic Advertising

Telemarketing is a business practice where businesses will attempt to solicit consumers through telephone calls to their home and places of business. These phone calls may be made by a telemarketer or a pre-recorded advertisement that will be replayed through automatic dialing. This automatic dialing system is often referred to as "robocalling" and is most associated with political advertisements.

Telemarketing is considered controversial because many people view these phone calls as an interference of their personal privacy. This is why the FTC has begun regulating the practices of telemarketers by establishing the National Do Not Call List.

Telemarketers will receive peoples' telephone numbers from registries, previous purchase histories, or they may purchase them from other companies' databases. Electronic advertising has been increasing in popularity over the years and allows businesses to reach target consumers with more accuracy.