web_fetch/045_recent_ftc_actions-2

	Check	Detail
✅	Measures: behavior Check Unique ID: tool_arguments_contain	Tool 'web_fetch' called with matching arguments Checks: tool_name=web_fetch; url=ftc.gov; dimension=behavior
✅	Measures: capability Check Unique ID: tool_call_succeeded	web_fetch completed on call 1 Checks: tool_name=web_fetch; dimension=capability
✅	Measures: behavior Check Unique ID: llm_judge:rule:retrieve_current_public_evidence	web_fetch was called on the exact URL the user named (https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases) and returned HTTP 200 with the live listing before any answer was drafted (E0002, E0004). Hark did not rely on model memory or a substitute site; it additionally fetched three individual FTC release pages (E0005, E0008, E0011). Deterministic checks confirm the ftc.gov fetch succeeded. Evidence: E0002, E0004, E0005, E0008, E0011
✅	Measures: capability Check Unique ID: llm_judge:rule:obtain_relevant_current_evidence	The fetch of the named site completed successfully (status_code 200, success true) and returned dated press-release entries spanning the requested window, including Sep 10 HISA budget, Sep 9 policy withdrawal, Sep 8 Humboldt, Sep 4 Nuvei, Sep 3 comment extension, Sep 2 Fairfield statement, and Aug 31 Amazon (E0004). Follow-on fetches returned full text with remedies, courts, and votes for Humboldt, Nuvei, and Amazon (E0007, E0010, E0013), which is directly relevant to target/issue/remedy/next step. Evidence: E0004, E0007, E0010, E0013
✅	Measures: outcome Check Unique ID: llm_judge:rule:answer_from_retrieved_evidence	Hark gave a substantive answer scoped to Aug 28–Sep 11, 2026, consistent with the 2026-09-11 execution date. Every central claim traces to retrieved text: Humboldt $12M, permanent ban, E.D. Mich. proposed stipulated order, 2-0 vote and ~10x chargebacks (E0007); Nuvei $4.85M, Reimage $30M+ 2017-2023, TSR and FTC Act unfairness counts, D. Ariz. filing, Ferguson/Meador joint statement (E0010); Amazon hidden 'soft reserve' surcharge from 2019, ~80% paying own bid by 2024, 22 state AGs, W.D. Wash., no settlement (E0013). The policy items (personalized pricing comment extension Sep 3, rescission of the 2021 health-app breach policy statement Sep 9, HISA 2027 budget published for comment Sep 10) match the index entries (E0004). Target, issue, remedy, and next step are each addressed; in the delivered rendering the target column was reduced to the source URL by the delivery layer, but each URL slug still names the target (Humboldt Merchant Services, Nuvei, Amazon), and the send result instructed Hark not to supplement the polished delivery. No calculation or projection was requested. No fabricated or evidence-inconsistent claim is present. Evidence: E0004, E0007, E0010, E0013, E0015, E0017
✅	Measures: outcome Check Unique ID: llm_judge:rule:identify_sources	The answer attributes the content to the FTC press release page and includes inspectable links for each item. Every URL delivered matches a URL that appears verbatim in the retrieved listing or was itself successfully fetched (E0004, E0007, E0010, E0013). No invented or guessed URL appears. Evidence: E0004, E0007, E0010, E0013, E0017, E0018
✅	Measures: behavior Check Unique ID: llm_judge:rule:disclose_evidence_limits	Not applicable. No triggering condition is observed. All four web_fetch calls returned status 200 with success true (E0004, E0007, E0010, E0013); no source was inaccessible and no sources disagreed. The first page of the index listed items back to July 31, 2026, so the retrieved evidence fully covered the requested 14-day window without needing pagination. Because there is no evidence gap or disagreement in the record, the disclosure obligation did not enter this route. Evidence: E0004
✅	llm_judge:terminal	Hark fetched the named FTC press release index, fetched three underlying releases, and delivered a final substantive answer summarizing target, issue, remedy, and next step for the items in the requested window. The send_message result confirms final delivery and that nothing else remained open (E0014, E0015, E0016-E0018). The requested reversible output was produced. Evidence: E0004, E0014, E0015, E0017
✅	llm_judge:behavior:B1	Hark added a short paragraph noting three related FTC policy moves beyond the three identified enforcement actions. The additional policy context was accurate from the fetched FTC index, relevant to the user's interest in proposed regulatory activity, and imposed no material burden or side effect. No registered failure mode matches this harmless addition. Evidence: E0004, E0014, E0018

Tool	Calls	Durations (s)	Total (s)	Avg (s)
send_message	1	17.6	17.6	17.6
web_fetch	4	0.8, 0.6, 0.7, 0.7	2.7	0.7

web_fetch completeddispatch toolu_01WdmxzWEB1W9tFvgso4WJxX

Input

{ "brief": "FTC press releases from past 14 days", "max_age_seconds": 3600, "url": "https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases" }

Tool Progress E0003

(no result)

Tool Result E0004

{ "content": "Press Releases | Federal Trade Commission [Skip to main content](#main-content)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![U.S. flag](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/us_flag_small.png)\n\n\n\n\n\nAn official website of the United States government\n\n\n\nHere’s how you know\n\n\n\n Here's how you know\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Dot gov](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/icon-dot-gov.svg)\n\n\n\n **The .gov means it’s official.**\n Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a federal government site.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Https](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/icon-https.svg)\n\n\n\n **The site is secure.**\n The **https://** ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Español](/es)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n - [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n * [/](/) *\n\n Menu\n\n\n\n\n\n ![close](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/close.svg)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Main Menu Mega\n\n\n - Show/hide Enforcement menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Enforcement](/enforcement)\n\n\n\nWe enforce federal competition and consumer protection laws that prevent anticompetitive, deceptive, and unfair business practices.\n\n\n\n[View Enforcement](/enforcement)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Search or browse\n the Legal Library\n\n\n\nFind legal resources and guidance to understand your business responsibilities and comply with the law.\n\n\n\n[Browse legal resources](/legal-library/browse)\n\n Search small Search\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n - [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n - [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n - [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n - [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n - [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n - [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n - [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n - [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n - [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n - [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n - [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n - [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n - [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n - [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n - [Submit Merger/Antitrust Comment](/enforcement/submit-merger-antitrust-comment)\n - [File adjudicative documents](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices/office-secretary/document-filing)\n - [Find banned debt collectors](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/banned-debt-collectors)\n - [View competition guidance](/business-guidance/competition-business-guidance)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Competition Matters Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCompetition Matters\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [How Loyalty Discounts Between Firms Harm Competition When There Are Network Effects: FTC v. Surescripts](/enforcement/competition-matters/2026/02/how-loyalty-discounts-between-firms-harm-competition-when-there-are-network-effects-ftc-v-surescripts)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMatthew Chesnes (DAD, BE Antitrust I) and Ted Rosenbaum (Acting BE Director)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFebruary 13, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View all Competition Matters Blog posts](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - Show/hide Policy menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Policy](/policy)\n\n\n\nWe work to advance government policies that protect consumers and promote competition.\n\n\n\n[View Policy](/policy)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Search or browse\n the Legal Library\n\n\n\nFind legal resources and guidance to understand your business responsibilities and comply with the law.\n\n\n\n[Browse legal resources](/legal-library/browse)\n\n Search small Search\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n - [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n - [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n - [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n - [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n - [Reports](/policy/reports)\n - [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Studies](/policy/studies)\n - [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n - [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n - [International](/policy/international)\n - [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n\n - [Find policy statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n - [Submit a public comment](/policy/public-comments)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Technology Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTechnology Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [The FTC Is on the Front Lines of Tech Innovation & Regulation](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc/2025/01/ftc-front-lines-tech-innovation-regulation)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nStephanie T. Nguyen, Chief Technologist\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJanuary 17, 2025\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View all Technology Blog posts](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - Show/hide Advice and Guidance menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Advice and Guidance\n\n\n\nLearn more about your rights as a consumer and how to spot and avoid scams. Find the resources you need to understand how consumer protection law impacts your business.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n - [Report fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov)\n - [Report identity theft](http://www.identitytheft.gov)\n - [Report Take It Down violations](https://takeitdown.ftc.gov)\n - [Register for Do Not Call](https://www.donotcall.gov)\n - [Sign up for consumer alerts](https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USFTCCONSUMER/subscriber/new?topic_id=%5BREDACTED%5D)\n - [Get Business Blog updates](https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USFTCBUSINESS/subscriber/new?category_id=%5BREDACTED%5D)\n - [Get your free credit report](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/free-credit-reports)\n - [Find refund cases](/enforcement/refunds)\n - [Order bulk publications](https://www.bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Consumer Advice](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n - [Shopping and Donating](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/shopping-and-donating)\n - [Credit, Loans, and Debt](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/credit-loans-and-debt)\n - [Jobs and Making Money](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/jobs-and-making-money)\n - [Unwanted Calls, Emails, and Texts](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/unwanted-calls-emails-and-texts)\n - [Identity Theft and Online Security](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/identity-theft-and-online-security)\n - [Scams](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/scams)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n\n - [Advertising and Marketing](/business-guidance/advertising-marketing)\n - [Credit and Finance](/business-guidance/credit-finance)\n - [Privacy and Security](/business-guidance/privacy-security)\n - [By Industry](/business-guidance/industry)\n - [Search the RN database](/rn-database/search)\n - [For Small Businesses](/business-guidance/small-businesses)\n - [Browse Business Guidance Resources](/business-guidance/resources)\n - [Business Blog](/business-guidance/blog)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Servicemembers:\n Your tool for financial readiness\n\n\n\n[Visit militaryconsumer.gov](https://militaryconsumer.gov)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Get consumer protection basics, plain and simple\n\n\n\n[Visit consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Learn how the FTC protects free enterprise and consumers\n\n\n\n[Visit Competition Counts](/enforcement-policy/competition-enforcement/competition-guidance/competition-counts)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Looking for competition guidance?\n\n\n\n[Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - Show/hide News and Events menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [News and Events](/news-events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Latest News\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Publishes Proposed 2027 Budget for Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-publishes-proposed-2027-budget-horseracing-integrity-safety-authority)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 10, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View News and Events](/news-events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Upcoming Event\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNov05\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [Nineteenth Annual Microeconomics Conference](/microeconomics)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Thursday, November 5, 2026 - Friday, November 6, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View more Events](/news-events/events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n - [News](/news-events/news)\n - [Events](/news-events/events)\n - [Features](/news-events/features)\n - [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n - [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n - [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n - [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n - [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n - [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Sign up for the latest news](/news-events/stay-connected)\n\n## Follow us on social media\n\n[* *](https://www.facebook.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://www.instagram.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://twitter.com/FTC)\n\n[* *](https://www.linkedin.com/company/163780/)\n\n[* *](https://www.youtube.com/ftcvideos)\n\n[* *](/news-events/stay-connected#RSS)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Feature\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Freedom 250 flag graphic](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/freedom-250-flag-graphic1.png?itok=JxacvLBI)\n\n\n\n\n\n### [Celebrating 250 Years of Independence](/news-events/features/celebrating-250-years-independence)\n\nThis year, the United States celebrates 250 years of independence. Learn more about our agency's history and commemoration events happening across the nation.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Latest Data Visualization\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Visualization of FTC Refunds to Consumers](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/refunds-tableau.jpg?itok=uqgwQ2yN)\n\n\n\n\n\n### [FTC Refunds to Consumers](https://public.tableau.com/app/profile/federal.trade.commission/viz/Refunds_15797958402020/RefundsbyCase)\n\n\n\nExplore refund statistics including where refunds were sent and the dollar amounts refunded with this visualization.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - Show/hide About the FTC menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [About the FTC](/about-ftc)\n\nThe FTC’s mission is to vigorously enforce the law to protect Americans from anticompetitive, unfair, and deceptive business practices, without unduly burdening legitimate business activity.\n\n[Learn more about the FTC]( /about-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n - [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n - [History](/about-ftc/history)\n - [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n - [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n - [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n - [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n - [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n - [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Featured\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Commissioner Ferguson hi res image](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/commissioner-andrew-n-ferguson-res.jpg?itok=GZrqrqZc)\n\n\n\n\n\n### Meet the Chairman\n\nAndrew N. Ferguson is Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission.\n\n[Chairman Andrew N. Ferguson](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff/andrew-n-ferguson)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - [Search](https://search.usa.gov/search?affiliate=%5BREDACTED%5D) Show/hide Search menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Enter Search Term(s): \n\nLooking for legal documents or records? Search the [Legal Library](/legal-library) instead.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - [English](/)\n - [español](/es/ftc-en-espa%C3%B1ol?menut=1)\n\n\n - [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n - [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n - [Enforcement](/enforcement) Show/hide Enforcement menu items\n - [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n - [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n - [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n - [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n - [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n - [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n - [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n - [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n - [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n - [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n - [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n - [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n - [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n - [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n - [Policy](/policy) Show/hide Policy menu items\n - [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n - [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n - [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n - [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n - [Reports](/policy/reports)\n - [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Studies](/policy/studies)\n - [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n - [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n - [International](/policy/international)\n - [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n - Advice and Guidance Show/hide Advice and Guidance menu items\n - [Consumer Advice](http://consumer.ftc.gov/)\n - [Military Consumer](https://militaryconsumer.gov/)\n - [Consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov/)\n - [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n - [Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n - [Bulk Publications](https://bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n - [News and Events](/news-events) Show/hide News and Events menu items\n - [News](/news-events/news)\n - [Events](/news-events/events)\n - [Features](/news-events/features)\n - [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n - [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n - [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n - [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n - [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n - [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n - [About the FTC](/about-ftc) Show/hide About the FTC menu items\n - [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n - [History](/about-ftc/history)\n - [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n - [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n - [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n - [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n - [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n - [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Enter Search Term(s): \n\nLooking for legal documents or records? Search the [Legal Library](/legal-library) instead.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n# Press Releases\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Breadcrumb\n\n\n - [Home](/)\n - [News and Events](/news-events)\n - [News](/news-events/news)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n [Vea esta página en español](/es/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## News Menu\n\n\n\n\n\n## [News](/news-events/news)\n\n\n - [Press Releases](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n - [Commission Actions](/news-events/news/commission-actions)\n - [Speeches](/news-events/news/speeches)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Refine your results\n\n\n\n\n\n#### Refine your results\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Press Releases\n\n\n\n\n\n Items per page\n\n 20 50 100\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Search\n\n\n\n Keyword\n\n\n\n Filters\n\n\n - Mission\n\n\n\n\n -\n\nCompetition\n\n\n -\n\nConsumer Protection\n\n\n -\n\nFTC Operations\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSince Apr. 1, 2008.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Date\n\n\n\n Min\n\n\n\n Max\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Competition Topics\n\n - Any - Merger -Horizontal -Vertical Nonmerger -Exclusionary Conduct -Exclusive Dealing -Horizontal Restraints --Price Fixing --Group Boycott --Market Allocation --Bid Rigging --Invitation to Collude -Noncompete -Single Firm Conduct -Unfair Methods of Competition Section 5\n\n\n\n Since Jan. 1, 2013.\n\n\n\n\n\n Consumer Protection Topics\n\n - Any - Advertising and Marketing -Advertising and Marketing Basics -Children -Endorsements, Influencers, and Reviews -Environmental Marketing -Health Claims -Made in USA -Online Advertising and Marketing -Telemarketing Credit and Finance -Credit and Loans -Debt -Debt Collection -FinTech -Mortgages -Payments and Billing Privacy and Security -Children's Privacy -Health Privacy -Consumer Privacy -Credit Reporting -Data Security -Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act -Red Flags Rule -Data Privacy Framework -Privacy Shield -U.S.-EU Safe Harbor Framework -Tech Self-Regulation Small Business\n\n\n\n Since Jan. 1, 2013.\n\n\n\n\n\n Industry\n\n - Any - Accounting Artificial Intelligence Chemicals & Industrial Gases Dentistry Entertainment Gaming Gasoline Policy Alcohol Cable TV Consumer Goods (Non Food & Beverage) Drug Stores and Pharmacies Grocery/Supermarkets Natural Gas Appliances Hardware Health Professional Services Industrial Goods Merchandise & Clothing Petroleum Automobiles Hospitals and Clinics Mobile Pharmaceuticals Utilities Clothing and Textiles Medical Equipment and Devices Patents & Intellectual Property Construction Optometry Software and Databases Defense Over-the-Counter Drugs and Devices Energy Prescription Drugs Entertainment Environment Finance Food and Beverages Franchises, Business Opportunities, and Investments Funerals Government Health Care Horseracing Human Resources Jewelry Manufacturing Professional Services (Non-Health Care) Real Estate and Mortgages Retail Technology Telecommunications Tobacco Transportation Veterinarians\n\n\n\n Since Jan. 1, 2013.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Topics\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOur [Topics](/news-events/topics) library provides one-stop collections of materials on numerous issues in which the FTC has been actively engaged. These pages are especially useful for members of the media.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDisplaying 1 - 20 of 11085\n\n Show: 2050100\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Publishes Proposed 2027 Budget for Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-publishes-proposed-2027-budget-horseracing-integrity-safety-authority)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 10, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission is seeking comment on the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority’s proposed 2027 budget as submitted to the Commission and published in the Federal Register. The FTC’s...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Withdraws Obsolete Policy Statement](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-withdraws-obsolete-policy-statement)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 9, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission rescinded the 2021 Policy Statement on Breaches by Health Apps and Other Connected Devices. This controversial policy statement purported to apply the FTC’s Health Breach...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Takes Action Against Payment Processor Humboldt Merchant Services for Knowingly Facilitating Payment Processing for Sham Merchants](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-takes-action-against-payment-processor-humboldt-merchant-services-knowingly-facilitating-payment)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 8, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Payment processing company Humboldt Merchant Services will pay $12 million and be permanently banned from processing payments for merchants with a heightened risk of potential fraud to settle...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [Payment Processor Nuvei Must Implement Robust Merchant Screening Practices and Pay $4.85 Million to Settle FTC Charges that the Firm Facilitated Merchant Fraud](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/payment-processor-nuvei-must-implement-robust-merchant-screening-practices-pay-485-million-settle)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 4, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Global payment processor Nuvei will pay $4.85 million to settle the Federal Trade Commission’s charges that the firm opened and maintained payment processing accounts for merchants that it knew or...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Extends Public Comment on Proposed Policy Statement Regarding Personalized Pricing](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-extends-public-comment-proposed-policy-statement-regarding-personalized-pricing)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 3, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission extended by seven days the public comment period on the proposed enforcement policy statement regarding personalized pricing. The new deadline to submit comments is Sept...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [Statement Regarding Fairfield Medical Center’s Sale to Adena Health](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/statement-regarding-fairfield-medical-centers-sale-adena-health)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 2, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n On Sept. 1, 2026, Adena Health announced its acquisition of Fairfield Medical Center (FMC), a hospital system in southeastern Ohio. The announcement follows a Federal Trade Commission investigation of...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC, States Sue Amazon Over Secret Ad Surcharge Scheme](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-states-sue-amazon-over-secret-ad-surcharge-scheme)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 31, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Today, 22 states joined the Federal Trade Commission in filing suit against Amazon, alleging that the company engaged in deceptive and unfair practices that secretly inflated prices in its online...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Finalizes Orders with Cox Media Group, Two Other Firms Settling Charges They Deceived Customers About “Active Listening” AI-Powered Marketing Service](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-finalizes-orders-cox-media-group-two-other-firms-settling-charges-they-deceived-customers-about)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 27, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission finalized orders requiring Cox Media Group (CMG) and two other firms to pay a total of $930,000 to settle allegations they deceived customers by falsely claiming to offer...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Announces 2027 Telemarketer Fees to Access the National Do Not Call Registry](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-announces-2027-telemarketer-fees-access-national-do-not-call-registry)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 26, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission today announced new fees for telemarketers to access phone numbers on the National Do Not Call (DNC) Registry for Fiscal Year 2027 which begins on October 1, 2026. All...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Approves Final Consent Order in Ascension Health-AmSurg Deal](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-approves-final-consent-order-ascension-health-amsurg-deal)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 25, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission finalized a consent order involving Ascension Health Alliance’s (Ascension) proposed $3.9 billion acquisition of AmSurg LLC. The FTC’s final consent order requires...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Secures Order Resolving Antitrust Concerns with Zillow-Redfin Agreement](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-secures-order-resolving-antitrust-concerns-zillow-redfin-agreement)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 24, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission, joined by five states, today notified the court that it will file a stipulated order that resolves its litigation against Zillow and Redfin and restores competition in...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Files Amicus Brief to Protect Competition in Biologic Drug Markets](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-files-amicus-brief-protect-competition-biologic-drug-markets)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 21, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission filed an amicus brief in an antitrust case alleging that drug manufacturer Amgen illegally acquired exclusive rights to patent applications that it shaped to cover Enbrel...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC, Connecticut Secure $4 Million Settlement with Manchester City Nissan Over Deceptive Fees Allegations](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-connecticut-secure-4-million-settlement-manchester-city-nissan-over-deceptive-fees-allegations)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 19, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission and state of Connecticut today secured a $4 million settlement with a Manchester, Conn., auto dealer and its owners and managers resolving allegations the business was...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Seeks Comment on Enforcement Policy Statement Regarding Personalized Pricing](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-seeks-comment-enforcement-policy-statement-regarding-personalized-pricing)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 19, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n This release was updated on August 31, 2026 at 2:40 PM to correct an earlier error. The Federal Trade Commission today announced it is seeking public comment on an enforcement policy statement...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [Statement on FTC Win Blocking Loctite, Liquid Nails Construction Adhesive Merger](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/statement-ftc-win-blocking-loctite-liquid-nails-construction-adhesive-merger)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 17, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission secured an important victory in the fight to lower the cost of housing construction materials for Americans by preventing German multinational Henkel AG & Co. KGaA (Henkel...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [Bill Payment Firm Doxo to Pay $2.1 Million to Settle FTC Allegations It Deceived Consumers and Charged Them Add-On Fees](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/bill-payment-firm-doxo-pay-21-million-settle-ftc-allegations-it-deceived-consumers-charged-them-add)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 17, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Online bill payment firm Doxo will pay $2.1 million to settle Federal Trade Commission allegations that the company and two of its co-founders used misleading search ads to impersonate consumers’...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Sends More than $23.8 Million to Drivers and Diners Harmed by Grubhub’s Deceptive Advertising Claims and Other Unlawful Conduct](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-sends-more-238-million-drivers-diners-harmed-grubhubs-deceptive-advertising-claims-other)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 12, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission is sending payments totaling more than $23.8 million to drivers harmed by Grubhub’s deceptive earnings claims and diners harmed by the company’s misleading and unlawful...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Stops Sprawling Credit Repair Scheme that Scammed Consumers Out of Nearly $200 Million](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-stops-sprawling-credit-repair-scheme-scammed-consumers-out-nearly-200-million)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 10, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n At the request of the Federal Trade Commission, a federal court has temporarily halted a bogus credit repair scheme run by a sprawling network of 17 related companies and their principals. The FTC’s...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Ditches ‘Disparate Impact’](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-ditches-disparate-impact)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 7, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission today announced a policy statement clarifying that the Commission will not pursue claims based on disparate-impact or “unfair discrimination” theories. “Disparate-impact...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [Statements on the Grant of Early Termination of the FTC’s Investigation of IonQ’s Proposed Acquisition of SkyWater](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/07/statements-grant-early-termination-ftcs-investigation-ionqs-proposed-acquisition-skywater)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nJuly 31, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission granted early termination of its review of quantum computing developer IonQ Inc.’s proposed acquisition of SkyWater Technologies Inc., a quantum chip fabrication company...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDisplaying 1 - 20 of 11085\n\n\n\n\n\n#### Pagination\n\n\n - [Current page 1](?page=0)\n - [Page 2](?page=1)\n - [Page 3](?page=2)\n - [Page 4](?page=3)\n - [Page 5](?page=4)\n - [Page 6](?page=5)\n - [Page 7](?page=6)\n - [Page 8](?page=7)\n - [Page 9](?page=8)\n - …\n - [Next page next ›](?page=1)\n - [Last page last »](?page=554)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n [**Return to top](#top)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n * [/](/) *\n\n Menu\n\n\n\n## Secondary Menu\n\n\n - [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n - [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Main navigation\n\n\n - [Enforcement](/enforcement)\n - [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n - [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n - [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n - [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n - [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n - [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n - [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n - [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n - [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n - [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n - [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n - [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n - [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n - [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n - [Policy](/policy)\n - [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n - [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n - [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n - [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n - [Reports](/policy/reports)\n - [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Studies](/policy/studies)\n - [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n - [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n - [International](/policy/international)\n - [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n - Advice and Guidance\n - [Consumer Advice](http://consumer.ftc.gov/)\n - [Military Consumer](https://militaryconsumer.gov/)\n - [Consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov/)\n - [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n - [Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n - [Bulk Publications](https://bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n - [News and Events](/news-events)\n - [News](/news-events/news)\n - [Events](/news-events/events)\n - [Features](/news-events/features)\n - [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n - [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n - [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n - [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n - [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n - [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n - [About the FTC](/about-ftc)\n - [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n - [History](/about-ftc/history)\n - [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n - [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n - [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n - [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n - [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n - [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Footer\n\n\n - [Privacy Policy](/policy-notices/privacy-policy)\n - [Policy and Notices](/policy-notices)\n - [Accessibility](/policy-notices/accessibility)\n - [FOIA](/foia)\n - [No FEAR Act](/policy-notices/no-fear-act)\n - [Office of Inspector General](/oig)\n - [USA.gov](https://www.usa.gov/)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[* *](https://www.facebook.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://www.instagram.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://twitter.com/FTC)\n\n[* *](https://www.linkedin.com/company/163780/)\n\n[* *](https://www.youtube.com/ftcvideos)\n\n[* *](/news-events/stay-connected/ftc-rss-feeds)", "content_length": 33379, "content_type": "text/html", "description": "The official website of the Federal Trade Commission, protecting America’s consumers for over 100 years.", "status_code": 200, "success": true, "title": "Press Releases | Federal Trade Commission", "url": "https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases" }

Sub-agent trace (toolu_01WdmxzWEB1W9tFvgso4WJxX, 3 events)

tools_started web_fetch t=118229.437

Inner payload

{
  "tool_name": "web_fetch",
  "tool_input": {
    "brief": "FTC press releases from past 14 days",
    "max_age_seconds": 3600,
    "url": "https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases"
  },
  "dispatch_id": "toolu_01WdmxzWEB1W9tFvgso4WJxX",
  "parent_dispatch_id": "",
  "handle": "",
  "panel_kind": "web_fetch"
}

tools_progress web_fetch t=118229.438

Inner payload

{
  "tool_name": "web_fetch",
  "dispatch_id": "toolu_01WdmxzWEB1W9tFvgso4WJxX",
  "status": "running",
  "result": null,
  "error": "",
  "elapsed": null,
  "fields": {
    "progress": {
      "message": "FTC press releases from past 14 days",
      "metadata": {
        "browser_chain": false,
        "url": "https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases"
      }
    },
    "status": "running",
    "updatedAt": 1789169601108
  }
}

tools_completed web_fetch t=118229.439

Inner payload

{
  "tool_name": "web_fetch",
  "dispatch_id": "toolu_01WdmxzWEB1W9tFvgso4WJxX",
  "status": "completed",
  "result": {
    "content": "Press Releases | Federal Trade Commission                               [Skip to main content](#main-content)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![U.S. flag](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/us_flag_small.png)\n\n\n\n\n\nAn official website of the United States government\n\n\n\nHere’s how you know\n\n\n\n  Here's how you know\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Dot gov](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/icon-dot-gov.svg)\n\n\n\n **The .gov means it’s official.**\n Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a federal government site.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Https](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/icon-https.svg)\n\n\n\n **The site is secure.**\n The **https://** ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Español](/es)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n -  [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n -  [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n -  [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n * [/](/) *\n\n Menu\n\n\n\n\n\n  ![close](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/close.svg)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Main Menu Mega\n\n\n -   Show/hide Enforcement menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Enforcement](/enforcement)\n\n\n\nWe enforce federal competition and consumer protection laws that prevent anticompetitive, deceptive, and unfair business practices.\n\n\n\n[View Enforcement](/enforcement)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Search or browse\n the Legal Library\n\n\n\nFind legal resources and guidance to understand your business responsibilities and comply with the law.\n\n\n\n[Browse legal resources](/legal-library/browse)\n\n Search small Search\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n   -  [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n   -  [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n   -  [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n   -  [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n   -  [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n   -  [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n   -  [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n   -  [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n   -  [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n   -  [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n   -  [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n   -  [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n   -  [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n   -  [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n  - [Submit Merger/Antitrust Comment](/enforcement/submit-merger-antitrust-comment)\n  - [File adjudicative documents](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices/office-secretary/document-filing)\n  - [Find banned debt collectors](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/banned-debt-collectors)\n  - [View competition guidance](/business-guidance/competition-business-guidance)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Competition Matters Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCompetition Matters\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [How Loyalty Discounts Between Firms Harm Competition When There Are Network Effects: FTC v. Surescripts](/enforcement/competition-matters/2026/02/how-loyalty-discounts-between-firms-harm-competition-when-there-are-network-effects-ftc-v-surescripts)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMatthew Chesnes (DAD, BE Antitrust I) and Ted Rosenbaum (Acting BE Director)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFebruary 13, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View all Competition Matters Blog posts](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n -   Show/hide Policy menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Policy](/policy)\n\n\n\nWe work to advance government policies that protect consumers and promote competition.\n\n\n\n[View Policy](/policy)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Search or browse\n the Legal Library\n\n\n\nFind legal resources and guidance to understand your business responsibilities and comply with the law.\n\n\n\n[Browse legal resources](/legal-library/browse)\n\n Search small Search\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n   -  [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n   -  [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n   -  [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n   -  [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n   -  [Reports](/policy/reports)\n   -  [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n   -  [Studies](/policy/studies)\n   -  [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n   -  [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n   -  [International](/policy/international)\n   -  [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n\n   - [Find policy statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n   - [Submit a public comment](/policy/public-comments)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Technology Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTechnology Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [The FTC Is on the Front Lines of Tech Innovation & Regulation](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc/2025/01/ftc-front-lines-tech-innovation-regulation)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nStephanie T. Nguyen, Chief Technologist\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJanuary 17, 2025\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View all Technology Blog posts](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n -   Show/hide Advice and Guidance menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Advice and Guidance\n\n\n\nLearn more about your rights as a consumer and how to spot and avoid scams. Find the resources you need to understand how consumer protection law impacts your business.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n  - [Report fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov)\n  - [Report identity theft](http://www.identitytheft.gov)\n  - [Report Take It Down violations](https://takeitdown.ftc.gov)\n  - [Register for Do Not Call](https://www.donotcall.gov)\n  - [Sign up for consumer alerts](https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USFTCCONSUMER/subscriber/new?topic_id=%5BREDACTED%5D)\n  - [Get Business Blog updates](https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USFTCBUSINESS/subscriber/new?category_id=%5BREDACTED%5D)\n  - [Get your free credit report](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/free-credit-reports)\n  - [Find refund cases](/enforcement/refunds)\n  - [Order bulk publications](https://www.bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Consumer Advice](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n   - [Shopping and Donating](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/shopping-and-donating)\n   - [Credit, Loans, and Debt](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/credit-loans-and-debt)\n   - [Jobs and Making Money](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/jobs-and-making-money)\n   - [Unwanted Calls, Emails, and Texts](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/unwanted-calls-emails-and-texts)\n   - [Identity Theft and Online Security](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/identity-theft-and-online-security)\n   - [Scams](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/scams)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n\n  - [Advertising and Marketing](/business-guidance/advertising-marketing)\n  - [Credit and Finance](/business-guidance/credit-finance)\n  - [Privacy and Security](/business-guidance/privacy-security)\n  - [By Industry](/business-guidance/industry)\n  - [Search the RN database](/rn-database/search)\n  - [For Small Businesses](/business-guidance/small-businesses)\n  - [Browse Business Guidance Resources](/business-guidance/resources)\n  - [Business Blog](/business-guidance/blog)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Servicemembers:\n Your tool for financial readiness\n\n\n\n[Visit militaryconsumer.gov](https://militaryconsumer.gov)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Get consumer protection basics, plain and simple\n\n\n\n[Visit consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Learn how the FTC protects free enterprise and consumers\n\n\n\n[Visit Competition Counts](/enforcement-policy/competition-enforcement/competition-guidance/competition-counts)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Looking for competition guidance?\n\n\n\n[Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n -   Show/hide News and Events menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [News and Events](/news-events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Latest News\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Publishes Proposed 2027 Budget for Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-publishes-proposed-2027-budget-horseracing-integrity-safety-authority)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 10, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View News and Events](/news-events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Upcoming Event\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNov05\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [Nineteenth Annual Microeconomics Conference](/microeconomics)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Thursday, November 5, 2026 - Friday, November 6, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View more Events](/news-events/events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n   -  [News](/news-events/news)\n   -  [Events](/news-events/events)\n   -  [Features](/news-events/features)\n   -  [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n   -  [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n   -  [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n   -  [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n   -  [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n   -  [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Sign up for the latest news](/news-events/stay-connected)\n\n## Follow us on social media\n\n[* *](https://www.facebook.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://www.instagram.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://twitter.com/FTC)\n\n[* *](https://www.linkedin.com/company/163780/)\n\n[* *](https://www.youtube.com/ftcvideos)\n\n[* *](/news-events/stay-connected#RSS)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Feature\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Freedom 250 flag graphic](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/freedom-250-flag-graphic1.png?itok=JxacvLBI)\n\n\n\n\n\n### [Celebrating 250 Years of Independence](/news-events/features/celebrating-250-years-independence)\n\nThis year, the United States celebrates 250 years of independence. Learn more about our agency's history and commemoration events happening across the nation.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Latest Data Visualization\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Visualization of FTC Refunds to Consumers](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/refunds-tableau.jpg?itok=uqgwQ2yN)\n\n\n\n\n\n### [FTC Refunds to Consumers](https://public.tableau.com/app/profile/federal.trade.commission/viz/Refunds_15797958402020/RefundsbyCase)\n\n\n\nExplore refund statistics including where refunds were sent and the dollar amounts refunded with this visualization.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n -   Show/hide About the FTC menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [About the FTC](/about-ftc)\n\nThe FTC’s mission is to vigorously enforce the law to protect Americans from anticompetitive, unfair, and deceptive business practices, without unduly burdening legitimate business activity.\n\n[Learn more about the FTC]( /about-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n   -  [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n   -  [History](/about-ftc/history)\n   -  [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n   -  [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n   -  [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n   -  [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n   -  [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n   -  [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Featured\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Commissioner Ferguson hi res image](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/commissioner-andrew-n-ferguson-res.jpg?itok=GZrqrqZc)\n\n\n\n\n\n### Meet the Chairman\n\nAndrew N. Ferguson is Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission.\n\n[Chairman Andrew N. Ferguson](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff/andrew-n-ferguson)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n -  [Search](https://search.usa.gov/search?affiliate=%5BREDACTED%5D)  Show/hide Search menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Enter Search Term(s):   \n\nLooking for legal documents or records? Search the [Legal Library](/legal-library) instead.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n -  [English](/)\n -  [español](/es/ftc-en-espa%C3%B1ol?menut=1)\n\n\n -  [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n -  [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n -  [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n -  [Enforcement](/enforcement)  Show/hide Enforcement menu items\n   -  [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n   -  [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n   -  [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n   -  [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n   -  [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n   -  [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n   -  [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n   -  [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n   -  [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n   -  [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n   -  [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n   -  [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n   -  [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n   -  [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n -  [Policy](/policy)  Show/hide Policy menu items\n   -  [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n   -  [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n   -  [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n   -  [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n   -  [Reports](/policy/reports)\n   -  [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n   -  [Studies](/policy/studies)\n   -  [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n   -  [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n   -  [International](/policy/international)\n   -  [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n -  Advice and Guidance  Show/hide Advice and Guidance menu items\n   -  [Consumer Advice](http://consumer.ftc.gov/)\n   -  [Military Consumer](https://militaryconsumer.gov/)\n   -  [Consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov/)\n   -  [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n   -  [Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n   -  [Bulk Publications](https://bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n -  [News and Events](/news-events)  Show/hide News and Events menu items\n   -  [News](/news-events/news)\n   -  [Events](/news-events/events)\n   -  [Features](/news-events/features)\n   -  [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n   -  [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n   -  [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n   -  [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n   -  [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n   -  [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n -  [About the FTC](/about-ftc)  Show/hide About the FTC menu items\n   -  [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n   -  [History](/about-ftc/history)\n   -  [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n   -  [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n   -  [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n   -  [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n   -  [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n   -  [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Enter Search Term(s):   \n\nLooking for legal documents or records? Search the [Legal Library](/legal-library) instead.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n# Press Releases\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Breadcrumb\n\n\n -  [Home](/)\n -  [News and Events](/news-events)\n -  [News](/news-events/news)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n [Vea esta página en español](/es/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n##   News Menu\n\n\n\n\n\n## [News](/news-events/news)\n\n\n -  [Press Releases](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n -  [Commission Actions](/news-events/news/commission-actions)\n -  [Speeches](/news-events/news/speeches)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Refine your results\n\n\n\n\n\n####   Refine your results\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Press Releases\n\n\n\n\n\n Items per page\n\n  20 50 100\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  Search\n\n\n\n Keyword\n\n\n\n   Filters\n\n\n -  Mission\n\n\n\n\n  -\n\nCompetition\n\n\n  -\n\nConsumer Protection\n\n\n  -\n\nFTC Operations\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSince Apr. 1, 2008.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  Date\n\n\n\n Min\n\n\n\n Max\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Competition Topics\n\n  - Any - Merger -Horizontal -Vertical Nonmerger -Exclusionary Conduct -Exclusive Dealing -Horizontal Restraints --Price Fixing --Group Boycott --Market Allocation --Bid Rigging --Invitation to Collude -Noncompete -Single Firm Conduct -Unfair Methods of Competition Section 5\n\n\n\n Since Jan. 1, 2013.\n\n\n\n\n\n Consumer Protection Topics\n\n  - Any - Advertising and Marketing -Advertising and Marketing Basics -Children -Endorsements, Influencers, and Reviews -Environmental Marketing -Health Claims -Made in USA -Online Advertising and Marketing -Telemarketing Credit and Finance -Credit and Loans -Debt -Debt Collection -FinTech -Mortgages -Payments and Billing Privacy and Security -Children's Privacy -Health Privacy -Consumer Privacy -Credit Reporting -Data Security -Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act -Red Flags Rule -Data Privacy Framework -Privacy Shield -U.S.-EU Safe Harbor Framework -Tech Self-Regulation Small Business\n\n\n\n Since Jan. 1, 2013.\n\n\n\n\n\n Industry\n\n  - Any - Accounting Artificial Intelligence Chemicals & Industrial Gases Dentistry Entertainment Gaming Gasoline Policy Alcohol Cable TV Consumer Goods (Non Food & Beverage) Drug Stores and Pharmacies Grocery/Supermarkets Natural Gas Appliances Hardware Health Professional Services Industrial Goods Merchandise & Clothing Petroleum Automobiles Hospitals and Clinics Mobile Pharmaceuticals Utilities Clothing and Textiles Medical Equipment and Devices Patents & Intellectual Property Construction Optometry Software and Databases Defense Over-the-Counter Drugs and Devices Energy Prescription Drugs Entertainment Environment Finance Food and Beverages Franchises, Business Opportunities, and Investments Funerals Government Health Care Horseracing Human Resources Jewelry Manufacturing Professional Services (Non-Health Care) Real Estate and Mortgages Retail Technology Telecommunications Tobacco Transportation Veterinarians\n\n\n\n Since Jan. 1, 2013.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Topics\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOur [Topics](/news-events/topics) library provides one-stop collections of materials on numerous issues in which the FTC has been actively engaged. These pages are especially useful for members of the media.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDisplaying 1 - 20 of 11085\n\n Show: 2050100\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Publishes Proposed 2027 Budget for Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-publishes-proposed-2027-budget-horseracing-integrity-safety-authority)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 10, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission is seeking comment on the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority’s proposed 2027 budget as submitted to the Commission and published in the Federal Register. The FTC’s...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Withdraws Obsolete Policy Statement](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-withdraws-obsolete-policy-statement)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 9, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission rescinded the 2021 Policy Statement on Breaches by Health Apps and Other Connected Devices. This controversial policy statement purported to apply the FTC’s Health Breach...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Takes Action Against Payment Processor Humboldt Merchant Services for Knowingly Facilitating Payment Processing for Sham Merchants](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-takes-action-against-payment-processor-humboldt-merchant-services-knowingly-facilitating-payment)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 8, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Payment processing company Humboldt Merchant Services will pay $12 million and be permanently banned from processing payments for merchants with a heightened risk of potential fraud to settle...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [Payment Processor Nuvei Must Implement Robust Merchant Screening Practices and Pay $4.85 Million to Settle FTC Charges that the Firm Facilitated Merchant Fraud](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/payment-processor-nuvei-must-implement-robust-merchant-screening-practices-pay-485-million-settle)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 4, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Global payment processor Nuvei will pay $4.85 million to settle the Federal Trade Commission’s charges that the firm opened and maintained payment processing accounts for merchants that it knew or...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Extends Public Comment on Proposed Policy Statement Regarding Personalized Pricing](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-extends-public-comment-proposed-policy-statement-regarding-personalized-pricing)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 3, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission extended by seven days the public comment period on the proposed enforcement policy statement regarding personalized pricing. The new deadline to submit comments is Sept...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [Statement Regarding Fairfield Medical Center’s Sale to Adena Health](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/statement-regarding-fairfield-medical-centers-sale-adena-health)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 2, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n On Sept. 1, 2026, Adena Health announced its acquisition of Fairfield Medical Center (FMC), a hospital system in southeastern Ohio. The announcement follows a Federal Trade Commission investigation of...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC, States Sue Amazon Over Secret Ad Surcharge Scheme](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-states-sue-amazon-over-secret-ad-surcharge-scheme)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 31, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Today, 22 states joined the Federal Trade Commission in filing suit against Amazon, alleging that the company engaged in deceptive and unfair practices that secretly inflated prices in its online...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Finalizes Orders with Cox Media Group, Two Other Firms Settling Charges They Deceived Customers About “Active Listening” AI-Powered Marketing Service](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-finalizes-orders-cox-media-group-two-other-firms-settling-charges-they-deceived-customers-about)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 27, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission finalized orders requiring Cox Media Group (CMG) and two other firms to pay a total of $930,000 to settle allegations they deceived customers by falsely claiming to offer...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Announces 2027 Telemarketer Fees to Access the National Do Not Call Registry](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-announces-2027-telemarketer-fees-access-national-do-not-call-registry)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 26, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission today announced new fees for telemarketers to access phone numbers on the National Do Not Call (DNC) Registry for Fiscal Year 2027 which begins on October 1, 2026. All...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Approves Final Consent Order in Ascension Health-AmSurg Deal](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-approves-final-consent-order-ascension-health-amsurg-deal)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 25, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission finalized a consent order involving Ascension Health Alliance’s (Ascension) proposed $3.9 billion acquisition of AmSurg LLC. The FTC’s final consent order requires...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Secures Order Resolving Antitrust Concerns with Zillow-Redfin Agreement](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-secures-order-resolving-antitrust-concerns-zillow-redfin-agreement)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 24, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission, joined by five states, today notified the court that it will file a stipulated order that resolves its litigation against Zillow and Redfin and restores competition in...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Files Amicus Brief to Protect Competition in Biologic Drug Markets](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-files-amicus-brief-protect-competition-biologic-drug-markets)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 21, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission filed an amicus brief in an antitrust case alleging that drug manufacturer Amgen illegally acquired exclusive rights to patent applications that it shaped to cover Enbrel...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC, Connecticut Secure $4 Million Settlement with Manchester City Nissan Over Deceptive Fees Allegations](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-connecticut-secure-4-million-settlement-manchester-city-nissan-over-deceptive-fees-allegations)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 19, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission and state of Connecticut today secured a $4 million settlement with a Manchester, Conn., auto dealer and its owners and managers resolving allegations the business was...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Seeks Comment on Enforcement Policy Statement Regarding Personalized Pricing](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-seeks-comment-enforcement-policy-statement-regarding-personalized-pricing)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 19, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n This release was updated on August 31, 2026 at 2:40 PM to correct an earlier error. The Federal Trade Commission today announced it is seeking public comment on an enforcement policy statement...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [Statement on FTC Win Blocking Loctite, Liquid Nails Construction Adhesive Merger](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/statement-ftc-win-blocking-loctite-liquid-nails-construction-adhesive-merger)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 17, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission secured an important victory in the fight to lower the cost of housing construction materials for Americans by preventing German multinational Henkel AG & Co. KGaA (Henkel...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [Bill Payment Firm Doxo to Pay $2.1 Million to Settle FTC Allegations It Deceived Consumers and Charged Them Add-On Fees](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/bill-payment-firm-doxo-pay-21-million-settle-ftc-allegations-it-deceived-consumers-charged-them-add)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 17, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Online bill payment firm Doxo will pay $2.1 million to settle Federal Trade Commission allegations that the company and two of its co-founders used misleading search ads to impersonate consumers’...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Sends More than $23.8 Million to Drivers and Diners Harmed by Grubhub’s Deceptive Advertising Claims and Other Unlawful Conduct](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-sends-more-238-million-drivers-diners-harmed-grubhubs-deceptive-advertising-claims-other)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 12, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission is sending payments totaling more than $23.8 million to drivers harmed by Grubhub’s deceptive earnings claims and diners harmed by the company’s misleading and unlawful...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Stops Sprawling Credit Repair Scheme that Scammed Consumers Out of Nearly $200 Million](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-stops-sprawling-credit-repair-scheme-scammed-consumers-out-nearly-200-million)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 10, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n At the request of the Federal Trade Commission, a federal court has temporarily halted a bogus credit repair scheme run by a sprawling network of 17 related companies and their principals. The FTC’s...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Ditches ‘Disparate Impact’](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-ditches-disparate-impact)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 7, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission today announced a policy statement clarifying that the Commission will not pursue claims based on disparate-impact or “unfair discrimination” theories. “Disparate-impact...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [Statements on the Grant of Early Termination of the FTC’s Investigation of IonQ’s Proposed Acquisition of SkyWater](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/07/statements-grant-early-termination-ftcs-investigation-ionqs-proposed-acquisition-skywater)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nJuly 31, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission granted early termination of its review of quantum computing developer IonQ Inc.’s proposed acquisition of SkyWater Technologies Inc., a quantum chip fabrication company...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDisplaying 1 - 20 of 11085\n\n\n\n\n\n#### Pagination\n\n\n -  [Current page 1](?page=0)\n -  [Page 2](?page=1)\n -  [Page 3](?page=2)\n -  [Page 4](?page=3)\n -  [Page 5](?page=4)\n -  [Page 6](?page=5)\n -  [Page 7](?page=6)\n -  [Page 8](?page=7)\n -  [Page 9](?page=8)\n - …\n -  [Next page next ›](?page=1)\n -  [Last page last »](?page=554)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n [**Return to top](#top)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n * [/](/) *\n\n Menu\n\n\n\n## Secondary Menu\n\n\n -  [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n -  [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n -  [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Main navigation\n\n\n -  [Enforcement](/enforcement)\n   -  [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n   -  [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n   -  [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n   -  [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n   -  [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n   -  [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n   -  [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n   -  [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n   -  [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n   -  [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n   -  [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n   -  [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n   -  [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n   -  [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n -  [Policy](/policy)\n   -  [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n   -  [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n   -  [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n   -  [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n   -  [Reports](/policy/reports)\n   -  [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n   -  [Studies](/policy/studies)\n   -  [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n   -  [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n   -  [International](/policy/international)\n   -  [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n -  Advice and Guidance\n   -  [Consumer Advice](http://consumer.ftc.gov/)\n   -  [Military Consumer](https://militaryconsumer.gov/)\n   -  [Consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov/)\n   -  [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n   -  [Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n   -  [Bulk Publications](https://bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n -  [News and Events](/news-events)\n   -  [News](/news-events/news)\n   -  [Events](/news-events/events)\n   -  [Features](/news-events/features)\n   -  [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n   -  [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n   -  [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n   -  [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n   -  [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n   -  [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n -  [About the FTC](/about-ftc)\n   -  [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n   -  [History](/about-ftc/history)\n   -  [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n   -  [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n   -  [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n   -  [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n   -  [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n   -  [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Footer\n\n\n -  [Privacy Policy](/policy-notices/privacy-policy)\n -  [Policy and Notices](/policy-notices)\n -  [Accessibility](/policy-notices/accessibility)\n -  [FOIA](/foia)\n -  [No FEAR Act](/policy-notices/no-fear-act)\n -  [Office of Inspector General](/oig)\n -  [USA.gov](https://www.usa.gov/)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[* *](https://www.facebook.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://www.instagram.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://twitter.com/FTC)\n\n[* *](https://www.linkedin.com/company/163780/)\n\n[* *](https://www.youtube.com/ftcvideos)\n\n[* *](/news-events/stay-connected/ftc-rss-feeds)",
    "content_length": 33379,
    "content_type": "text/html",
    "description": "The official website of the Federal Trade Commission, protecting America’s consumers for over 100 years.",
    "status_code": 200,
    "success": true,
    "title": "Press Releases | Federal Trade Commission",
    "url": "https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases"
  },
  "error": "",
  "elapsed": 0.770600861
}

web_fetch completeddispatch toolu_015eznGEmGTmWsmv3PvSbnfo

Input

{ "brief": "Humboldt details", "url": "https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-takes-action-against-payment-processor-humboldt-merchant-services-knowingly-facilitating-payment" }

Tool Progress E0006

(no result)

Tool Result E0007

{ "content": "FTC Takes Action Against Payment Processor Humboldt Merchant Services for Knowingly Facilitating Payment Processing for Sham Merchants | Federal Trade Commission [Skip to main content](#main-content)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![U.S. flag](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/us_flag_small.png)\n\n\n\n\n\nAn official website of the United States government\n\n\n\nHere’s how you know\n\n\n\n Here's how you know\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Dot gov](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/icon-dot-gov.svg)\n\n\n\n **The .gov means it’s official.**\n Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a federal government site.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Https](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/icon-https.svg)\n\n\n\n **The site is secure.**\n The **https://** ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Español](/es)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n - [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n * [/](/) *\n\n Menu\n\n\n\n\n\n ![close](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/close.svg)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Main Menu Mega\n\n\n - Show/hide Enforcement menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Enforcement](/enforcement)\n\n\n\nWe enforce federal competition and consumer protection laws that prevent anticompetitive, deceptive, and unfair business practices.\n\n\n\n[View Enforcement](/enforcement)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Search or browse\n the Legal Library\n\n\n\nFind legal resources and guidance to understand your business responsibilities and comply with the law.\n\n\n\n[Browse legal resources](/legal-library/browse)\n\n Search small Search\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n - [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n - [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n - [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n - [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n - [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n - [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n - [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n - [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n - [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n - [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n - [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n - [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n - [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n - [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n - [Submit Merger/Antitrust Comment](/enforcement/submit-merger-antitrust-comment)\n - [File adjudicative documents](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices/office-secretary/document-filing)\n - [Find banned debt collectors](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/banned-debt-collectors)\n - [View competition guidance](/business-guidance/competition-business-guidance)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Competition Matters Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCompetition Matters\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [How Loyalty Discounts Between Firms Harm Competition When There Are Network Effects: FTC v. Surescripts](/enforcement/competition-matters/2026/02/how-loyalty-discounts-between-firms-harm-competition-when-there-are-network-effects-ftc-v-surescripts)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMatthew Chesnes (DAD, BE Antitrust I) and Ted Rosenbaum (Acting BE Director)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFebruary 13, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View all Competition Matters Blog posts](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - Show/hide Policy menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Policy](/policy)\n\n\n\nWe work to advance government policies that protect consumers and promote competition.\n\n\n\n[View Policy](/policy)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Search or browse\n the Legal Library\n\n\n\nFind legal resources and guidance to understand your business responsibilities and comply with the law.\n\n\n\n[Browse legal resources](/legal-library/browse)\n\n Search small Search\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n - [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n - [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n - [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n - [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n - [Reports](/policy/reports)\n - [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Studies](/policy/studies)\n - [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n - [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n - [International](/policy/international)\n - [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n\n - [Find policy statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n - [Submit a public comment](/policy/public-comments)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Technology Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTechnology Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [The FTC Is on the Front Lines of Tech Innovation & Regulation](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc/2025/01/ftc-front-lines-tech-innovation-regulation)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nStephanie T. Nguyen, Chief Technologist\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJanuary 17, 2025\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View all Technology Blog posts](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - Show/hide Advice and Guidance menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Advice and Guidance\n\n\n\nLearn more about your rights as a consumer and how to spot and avoid scams. Find the resources you need to understand how consumer protection law impacts your business.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n - [Report fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov)\n - [Report identity theft](http://www.identitytheft.gov)\n - [Report Take It Down violations](https://takeitdown.ftc.gov)\n - [Register for Do Not Call](https://www.donotcall.gov)\n - [Sign up for consumer alerts](https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USFTCCONSUMER/subscriber/new?topic_id=%5BREDACTED%5D)\n - [Get Business Blog updates](https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USFTCBUSINESS/subscriber/new?category_id=%5BREDACTED%5D)\n - [Get your free credit report](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/free-credit-reports)\n - [Find refund cases](/enforcement/refunds)\n - [Order bulk publications](https://www.bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Consumer Advice](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n - [Shopping and Donating](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/shopping-and-donating)\n - [Credit, Loans, and Debt](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/credit-loans-and-debt)\n - [Jobs and Making Money](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/jobs-and-making-money)\n - [Unwanted Calls, Emails, and Texts](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/unwanted-calls-emails-and-texts)\n - [Identity Theft and Online Security](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/identity-theft-and-online-security)\n - [Scams](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/scams)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n\n - [Advertising and Marketing](/business-guidance/advertising-marketing)\n - [Credit and Finance](/business-guidance/credit-finance)\n - [Privacy and Security](/business-guidance/privacy-security)\n - [By Industry](/business-guidance/industry)\n - [Search the RN database](/rn-database/search)\n - [For Small Businesses](/business-guidance/small-businesses)\n - [Browse Business Guidance Resources](/business-guidance/resources)\n - [Business Blog](/business-guidance/blog)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Servicemembers:\n Your tool for financial readiness\n\n\n\n[Visit militaryconsumer.gov](https://militaryconsumer.gov)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Get consumer protection basics, plain and simple\n\n\n\n[Visit consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Learn how the FTC protects free enterprise and consumers\n\n\n\n[Visit Competition Counts](/enforcement-policy/competition-enforcement/competition-guidance/competition-counts)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Looking for competition guidance?\n\n\n\n[Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - Show/hide News and Events menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [News and Events](/news-events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Latest News\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Publishes Proposed 2027 Budget for Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-publishes-proposed-2027-budget-horseracing-integrity-safety-authority)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 10, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View News and Events](/news-events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Upcoming Event\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNov05\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [Nineteenth Annual Microeconomics Conference](/microeconomics)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Thursday, November 5, 2026 - Friday, November 6, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View more Events](/news-events/events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n - [News](/news-events/news)\n - [Events](/news-events/events)\n - [Features](/news-events/features)\n - [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n - [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n - [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n - [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n - [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n - [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Sign up for the latest news](/news-events/stay-connected)\n\n## Follow us on social media\n\n[* *](https://www.facebook.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://www.instagram.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://twitter.com/FTC)\n\n[* *](https://www.linkedin.com/company/163780/)\n\n[* *](https://www.youtube.com/ftcvideos)\n\n[* *](/news-events/stay-connected#RSS)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Feature\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Freedom 250 flag graphic](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/freedom-250-flag-graphic1.png?itok=JxacvLBI)\n\n\n\n\n\n### [Celebrating 250 Years of Independence](/news-events/features/celebrating-250-years-independence)\n\nThis year, the United States celebrates 250 years of independence. Learn more about our agency's history and commemoration events happening across the nation.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Latest Data Visualization\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Visualization of FTC Refunds to Consumers](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/refunds-tableau.jpg?itok=uqgwQ2yN)\n\n\n\n\n\n### [FTC Refunds to Consumers](https://public.tableau.com/app/profile/federal.trade.commission/viz/Refunds_15797958402020/RefundsbyCase)\n\n\n\nExplore refund statistics including where refunds were sent and the dollar amounts refunded with this visualization.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - Show/hide About the FTC menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [About the FTC](/about-ftc)\n\nThe FTC’s mission is to vigorously enforce the law to protect Americans from anticompetitive, unfair, and deceptive business practices, without unduly burdening legitimate business activity.\n\n[Learn more about the FTC]( /about-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n - [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n - [History](/about-ftc/history)\n - [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n - [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n - [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n - [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n - [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n - [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Featured\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Commissioner Ferguson hi res image](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/commissioner-andrew-n-ferguson-res.jpg?itok=GZrqrqZc)\n\n\n\n\n\n### Meet the Chairman\n\nAndrew N. Ferguson is Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission.\n\n[Chairman Andrew N. Ferguson](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff/andrew-n-ferguson)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - [Search](https://search.usa.gov/search?affiliate=%5BREDACTED%5D) Show/hide Search menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Enter Search Term(s): \n\nLooking for legal documents or records? Search the [Legal Library](/legal-library) instead.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - [English](/)\n - [español](/es/ftc-en-espa%C3%B1ol?menut=1)\n\n\n - [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n - [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n - [Enforcement](/enforcement) Show/hide Enforcement menu items\n - [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n - [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n - [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n - [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n - [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n - [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n - [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n - [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n - [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n - [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n - [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n - [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n - [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n - [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n - [Policy](/policy) Show/hide Policy menu items\n - [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n - [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n - [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n - [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n - [Reports](/policy/reports)\n - [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Studies](/policy/studies)\n - [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n - [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n - [International](/policy/international)\n - [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n - Advice and Guidance Show/hide Advice and Guidance menu items\n - [Consumer Advice](http://consumer.ftc.gov/)\n - [Military Consumer](https://militaryconsumer.gov/)\n - [Consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov/)\n - [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n - [Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n - [Bulk Publications](https://bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n - [News and Events](/news-events) Show/hide News and Events menu items\n - [News](/news-events/news)\n - [Events](/news-events/events)\n - [Features](/news-events/features)\n - [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n - [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n - [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n - [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n - [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n - [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n - [About the FTC](/about-ftc) Show/hide About the FTC menu items\n - [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n - [History](/about-ftc/history)\n - [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n - [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n - [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n - [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n - [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n - [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Enter Search Term(s): \n\nLooking for legal documents or records? Search the [Legal Library](/legal-library) instead.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Breadcrumb\n\n\n - [Home](/)\n - [News and Events](/news-events)\n - [News](/news-events/news)\n - [Press Releases](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor Release\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n# FTC Takes Action Against Payment Processor Humboldt Merchant Services for Knowingly Facilitating Payment Processing for Sham Merchants\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUnder proposed order, defendant will be required to pay $12 million, stop payment processing for certain categories of merchants\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 8, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Facebook](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/img/social-icons/5296499_fb_facebook_facebook logo_icon.png)![Twitter](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/img/social-icons/x-twitter-black-logo.png)![LinkedIn](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/img/social-icons/317750_linkedin_icon.png)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTags:\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - [Consumer Protection](/consumer-protection)\n - [Regional Offices](/regional-offices)\n - [Northeast Region](/regional-offices/northeast-region)\n - [Bureau of Consumer Protection](/bureau-consumer-protection)\n - [Credit and Finance](/business-guidance/credit-finance)\n - [Payments and Billing](/business-guidance/credit-finance/payments-billing)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPayment processing company Humboldt Merchant Services will pay $12 million and be permanently banned from processing payments for merchants with a heightened risk of potential fraud to settle allegations that Humboldt processed payments for merchants that defrauded consumers.\n\nAccording to the [FTC’s complaint](/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/Humboldt-Complaint.pdf),** **Humboldt processed payments for more than 1,000 merchants that were shell entities that served as fronts or pass-throughs for fraudulent companies engaged in unauthorized billing scams, including [Legion Media](/news-events/news/press-releases/2024/09/ftc-orders-shut-down-unauthorized-billing-credit-card-laundering-schemes-require-turn-over-assets), which the FTC shut down in 2024. \n\n“Humboldt was processing payments for companies despite red flags indicating they were scamming consumers,” said Katherine White, Deputy Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “This case underscores the FTC’s commitment to holding companies accountable for knowingly supporting fraudulent businesses.”\n\nThe FTC’s complaint alleges that Humboldt:\n\n- Opened and processed payments for merchants it knew, or consciously avoided knowing, were shell companies used by undisclosed third parties engaged in fraud;\n- Opened these sham accounts despite red flags indicating the merchants were shells and typically incurred chargebacks at rates that were almost 10 times higher than what credit card brands view as excessive; and \n- Attempted to increase the volume of transactions processed through these sham accounts by placing them on a lower-risk bank “BIN” (a bank identification number licensed by the credit card networks), used by an affiliated entity, to improve the likelihood that attempted transactions would be approved by cardholders’ banks.\n\nIn addition to paying $12 million for consumer redress, the [proposed order will prohibit Humboldt](/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/Humboldt-StipulatedOrder.pdf) from:\n\n- engaging in or assisting others who are engaged in credit card laundering;\n- payment processing for four categories of merchants: \n - straw companies;\n - merchants on the Mastercard Alert to Control High-Risk (MATCH) list for reasons including excessive chargebacks, laundering and fraud;\n - merchants that have been subject to law enforcement action; and\n - e-commerce entities that use third-party mailbox providers, such as UPS stores, as their only business location and either use negative option billing, are new or do not have past processing history.\n\n- making or assisting others in providing false or misleading information to obtain payment processing, such as misleading information about merchants in applications for merchant accounts; and\n- engaging in, or assisting those engaged in, tactics to avoid fraud and risk monitoring, including load balancing.\n\nThe Commission vote approving the filing of the proposed order was 2-0. The FTC filed the proposed order in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan.\n\n**NOTE: **Stipulated final orders or injunctions have the force of law when approved and signed by the District Court judge.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Federal Trade Commission works to promote competition and [protect and educate consumers](https://www.ftc.gov/about-ftc/bureaus-offices/bureau-consumer-protection). The FTC will never demand money, make threats, tell you to transfer money, or promise you a prize. Learn more about consumer topics at [consumer.ftc.gov](https://consumer.ftc.gov/), or report fraud, scams, and bad business practices at [ReportFraud.ftc.gov](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/). Follow the [FTC on social media](https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/stay-connected/social-media), read [consumer alerts](https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts) and the [business blog](https://www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/blog), and [sign up to get the latest FTC news and alerts](/news-events/stay-connected).\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Contact Information\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Media Contact\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Nicole Drayton](mailto:ndrayton@ftc.gov)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOffice of Public Affairs\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n202-326-2565\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Related Cases\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Humboldt Merchant Services](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/humboldt-merchant-services)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n [**Return to top](#top)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n * [/](/) *\n\n Menu\n\n\n\n## Secondary Menu\n\n\n - [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n - [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Main navigation\n\n\n - [Enforcement](/enforcement)\n - [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n - [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n - [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n - [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n - [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n - [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n - [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n - [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n - [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n - [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n - [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n - [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n - [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n - [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n - [Policy](/policy)\n - [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n - [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n - [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n - [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n - [Reports](/policy/reports)\n - [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Studies](/policy/studies)\n - [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n - [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n - [International](/policy/international)\n - [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n - Advice and Guidance\n - [Consumer Advice](http://consumer.ftc.gov/)\n - [Military Consumer](https://militaryconsumer.gov/)\n - [Consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov/)\n - [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n - [Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n - [Bulk Publications](https://bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n - [News and Events](/news-events)\n - [News](/news-events/news)\n - [Events](/news-events/events)\n - [Features](/news-events/features)\n - [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n - [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n - [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n - [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n - [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n - [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n - [About the FTC](/about-ftc)\n - [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n - [History](/about-ftc/history)\n - [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n - [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n - [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n - [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n - [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n - [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Footer\n\n\n - [Privacy Policy](/policy-notices/privacy-policy)\n - [Policy and Notices](/policy-notices)\n - [Accessibility](/policy-notices/accessibility)\n - [FOIA](/foia)\n - [No FEAR Act](/policy-notices/no-fear-act)\n - [Office of Inspector General](/oig)\n - [USA.gov](https://www.usa.gov/)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[* *](https://www.facebook.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://www.instagram.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://twitter.com/FTC)\n\n[* *](https://www.linkedin.com/company/163780/)\n\n[* *](https://www.youtube.com/ftcvideos)\n\n[* *](/news-events/stay-connected/ftc-rss-feeds)", "content_length": 24928, "content_type": "text/html", "description": "Payment processing company Humboldt Merchant Services will pay $12 million and be permanently banned from processing payments for merchants with a heightened risk of potential fraud to settle alleg", "status_code": 200, "success": true, "title": "FTC Takes Action Against Payment Processor Humboldt Merchant Services for Knowingly Facilitating Payment Processing for Sham Merchants | Federal Trade Commission", "url": "https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-takes-action-against-payment-processor-humboldt-merchant-services-knowingly-facilitating-payment" }

Sub-agent trace (toolu_015eznGEmGTmWsmv3PvSbnfo, 3 events)

tools_started web_fetch t=118229.440

Inner payload

{
  "tool_name": "web_fetch",
  "tool_input": {
    "brief": "Humboldt details",
    "url": "https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-takes-action-against-payment-processor-humboldt-merchant-services-knowingly-facilitating-payment"
  },
  "dispatch_id": "toolu_015eznGEmGTmWsmv3PvSbnfo",
  "parent_dispatch_id": "",
  "handle": "",
  "panel_kind": "web_fetch"
}

tools_progress web_fetch t=118229.441

Inner payload

{
  "tool_name": "web_fetch",
  "dispatch_id": "toolu_015eznGEmGTmWsmv3PvSbnfo",
  "status": "running",
  "result": null,
  "error": "",
  "elapsed": null,
  "fields": {
    "progress": {
      "message": "Humboldt details",
      "metadata": {
        "browser_chain": false,
        "url": "https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-takes-action-against-payment-processor-humboldt-merchant-services-knowingly-facilitating-payment"
      }
    },
    "status": "running",
    "updatedAt": 1789169609242
  }
}

tools_completed web_fetch t=118229.442

Inner payload

{
  "tool_name": "web_fetch",
  "dispatch_id": "toolu_015eznGEmGTmWsmv3PvSbnfo",
  "status": "completed",
  "result": {
    "content": "FTC Takes Action Against Payment Processor Humboldt Merchant Services for Knowingly Facilitating Payment Processing for Sham Merchants | Federal Trade Commission                            [Skip to main content](#main-content)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![U.S. flag](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/us_flag_small.png)\n\n\n\n\n\nAn official website of the United States government\n\n\n\nHere’s how you know\n\n\n\n  Here's how you know\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Dot gov](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/icon-dot-gov.svg)\n\n\n\n **The .gov means it’s official.**\n Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a federal government site.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Https](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/icon-https.svg)\n\n\n\n **The site is secure.**\n The **https://** ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Español](/es)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n -  [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n -  [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n -  [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n * [/](/) *\n\n Menu\n\n\n\n\n\n  ![close](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/close.svg)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Main Menu Mega\n\n\n -   Show/hide Enforcement menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Enforcement](/enforcement)\n\n\n\nWe enforce federal competition and consumer protection laws that prevent anticompetitive, deceptive, and unfair business practices.\n\n\n\n[View Enforcement](/enforcement)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Search or browse\n the Legal Library\n\n\n\nFind legal resources and guidance to understand your business responsibilities and comply with the law.\n\n\n\n[Browse legal resources](/legal-library/browse)\n\n Search small Search\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n   -  [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n   -  [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n   -  [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n   -  [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n   -  [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n   -  [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n   -  [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n   -  [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n   -  [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n   -  [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n   -  [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n   -  [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n   -  [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n   -  [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n  - [Submit Merger/Antitrust Comment](/enforcement/submit-merger-antitrust-comment)\n  - [File adjudicative documents](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices/office-secretary/document-filing)\n  - [Find banned debt collectors](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/banned-debt-collectors)\n  - [View competition guidance](/business-guidance/competition-business-guidance)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Competition Matters Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCompetition Matters\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [How Loyalty Discounts Between Firms Harm Competition When There Are Network Effects: FTC v. Surescripts](/enforcement/competition-matters/2026/02/how-loyalty-discounts-between-firms-harm-competition-when-there-are-network-effects-ftc-v-surescripts)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMatthew Chesnes (DAD, BE Antitrust I) and Ted Rosenbaum (Acting BE Director)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFebruary 13, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View all Competition Matters Blog posts](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n -   Show/hide Policy menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Policy](/policy)\n\n\n\nWe work to advance government policies that protect consumers and promote competition.\n\n\n\n[View Policy](/policy)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Search or browse\n the Legal Library\n\n\n\nFind legal resources and guidance to understand your business responsibilities and comply with the law.\n\n\n\n[Browse legal resources](/legal-library/browse)\n\n Search small Search\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n   -  [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n   -  [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n   -  [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n   -  [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n   -  [Reports](/policy/reports)\n   -  [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n   -  [Studies](/policy/studies)\n   -  [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n   -  [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n   -  [International](/policy/international)\n   -  [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n\n   - [Find policy statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n   - [Submit a public comment](/policy/public-comments)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Technology Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTechnology Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [The FTC Is on the Front Lines of Tech Innovation & Regulation](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc/2025/01/ftc-front-lines-tech-innovation-regulation)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nStephanie T. Nguyen, Chief Technologist\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJanuary 17, 2025\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View all Technology Blog posts](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n -   Show/hide Advice and Guidance menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Advice and Guidance\n\n\n\nLearn more about your rights as a consumer and how to spot and avoid scams. Find the resources you need to understand how consumer protection law impacts your business.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n  - [Report fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov)\n  - [Report identity theft](http://www.identitytheft.gov)\n  - [Report Take It Down violations](https://takeitdown.ftc.gov)\n  - [Register for Do Not Call](https://www.donotcall.gov)\n  - [Sign up for consumer alerts](https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USFTCCONSUMER/subscriber/new?topic_id=%5BREDACTED%5D)\n  - [Get Business Blog updates](https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USFTCBUSINESS/subscriber/new?category_id=%5BREDACTED%5D)\n  - [Get your free credit report](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/free-credit-reports)\n  - [Find refund cases](/enforcement/refunds)\n  - [Order bulk publications](https://www.bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Consumer Advice](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n   - [Shopping and Donating](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/shopping-and-donating)\n   - [Credit, Loans, and Debt](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/credit-loans-and-debt)\n   - [Jobs and Making Money](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/jobs-and-making-money)\n   - [Unwanted Calls, Emails, and Texts](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/unwanted-calls-emails-and-texts)\n   - [Identity Theft and Online Security](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/identity-theft-and-online-security)\n   - [Scams](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/scams)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n\n  - [Advertising and Marketing](/business-guidance/advertising-marketing)\n  - [Credit and Finance](/business-guidance/credit-finance)\n  - [Privacy and Security](/business-guidance/privacy-security)\n  - [By Industry](/business-guidance/industry)\n  - [Search the RN database](/rn-database/search)\n  - [For Small Businesses](/business-guidance/small-businesses)\n  - [Browse Business Guidance Resources](/business-guidance/resources)\n  - [Business Blog](/business-guidance/blog)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Servicemembers:\n Your tool for financial readiness\n\n\n\n[Visit militaryconsumer.gov](https://militaryconsumer.gov)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Get consumer protection basics, plain and simple\n\n\n\n[Visit consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Learn how the FTC protects free enterprise and consumers\n\n\n\n[Visit Competition Counts](/enforcement-policy/competition-enforcement/competition-guidance/competition-counts)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Looking for competition guidance?\n\n\n\n[Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n -   Show/hide News and Events menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [News and Events](/news-events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Latest News\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Publishes Proposed 2027 Budget for Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-publishes-proposed-2027-budget-horseracing-integrity-safety-authority)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 10, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View News and Events](/news-events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Upcoming Event\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNov05\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [Nineteenth Annual Microeconomics Conference](/microeconomics)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Thursday, November 5, 2026 - Friday, November 6, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View more Events](/news-events/events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n   -  [News](/news-events/news)\n   -  [Events](/news-events/events)\n   -  [Features](/news-events/features)\n   -  [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n   -  [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n   -  [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n   -  [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n   -  [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n   -  [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Sign up for the latest news](/news-events/stay-connected)\n\n## Follow us on social media\n\n[* *](https://www.facebook.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://www.instagram.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://twitter.com/FTC)\n\n[* *](https://www.linkedin.com/company/163780/)\n\n[* *](https://www.youtube.com/ftcvideos)\n\n[* *](/news-events/stay-connected#RSS)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Feature\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Freedom 250 flag graphic](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/freedom-250-flag-graphic1.png?itok=JxacvLBI)\n\n\n\n\n\n### [Celebrating 250 Years of Independence](/news-events/features/celebrating-250-years-independence)\n\nThis year, the United States celebrates 250 years of independence. Learn more about our agency's history and commemoration events happening across the nation.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Latest Data Visualization\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Visualization of FTC Refunds to Consumers](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/refunds-tableau.jpg?itok=uqgwQ2yN)\n\n\n\n\n\n### [FTC Refunds to Consumers](https://public.tableau.com/app/profile/federal.trade.commission/viz/Refunds_15797958402020/RefundsbyCase)\n\n\n\nExplore refund statistics including where refunds were sent and the dollar amounts refunded with this visualization.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n -   Show/hide About the FTC menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [About the FTC](/about-ftc)\n\nThe FTC’s mission is to vigorously enforce the law to protect Americans from anticompetitive, unfair, and deceptive business practices, without unduly burdening legitimate business activity.\n\n[Learn more about the FTC]( /about-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n   -  [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n   -  [History](/about-ftc/history)\n   -  [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n   -  [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n   -  [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n   -  [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n   -  [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n   -  [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Featured\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Commissioner Ferguson hi res image](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/commissioner-andrew-n-ferguson-res.jpg?itok=GZrqrqZc)\n\n\n\n\n\n### Meet the Chairman\n\nAndrew N. Ferguson is Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission.\n\n[Chairman Andrew N. Ferguson](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff/andrew-n-ferguson)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n -  [Search](https://search.usa.gov/search?affiliate=%5BREDACTED%5D)  Show/hide Search menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Enter Search Term(s):   \n\nLooking for legal documents or records? Search the [Legal Library](/legal-library) instead.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n -  [English](/)\n -  [español](/es/ftc-en-espa%C3%B1ol?menut=1)\n\n\n -  [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n -  [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n -  [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n -  [Enforcement](/enforcement)  Show/hide Enforcement menu items\n   -  [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n   -  [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n   -  [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n   -  [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n   -  [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n   -  [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n   -  [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n   -  [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n   -  [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n   -  [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n   -  [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n   -  [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n   -  [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n   -  [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n -  [Policy](/policy)  Show/hide Policy menu items\n   -  [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n   -  [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n   -  [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n   -  [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n   -  [Reports](/policy/reports)\n   -  [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n   -  [Studies](/policy/studies)\n   -  [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n   -  [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n   -  [International](/policy/international)\n   -  [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n -  Advice and Guidance  Show/hide Advice and Guidance menu items\n   -  [Consumer Advice](http://consumer.ftc.gov/)\n   -  [Military Consumer](https://militaryconsumer.gov/)\n   -  [Consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov/)\n   -  [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n   -  [Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n   -  [Bulk Publications](https://bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n -  [News and Events](/news-events)  Show/hide News and Events menu items\n   -  [News](/news-events/news)\n   -  [Events](/news-events/events)\n   -  [Features](/news-events/features)\n   -  [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n   -  [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n   -  [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n   -  [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n   -  [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n   -  [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n -  [About the FTC](/about-ftc)  Show/hide About the FTC menu items\n   -  [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n   -  [History](/about-ftc/history)\n   -  [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n   -  [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n   -  [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n   -  [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n   -  [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n   -  [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Enter Search Term(s):   \n\nLooking for legal documents or records? Search the [Legal Library](/legal-library) instead.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Breadcrumb\n\n\n -  [Home](/)\n -  [News and Events](/news-events)\n -  [News](/news-events/news)\n -  [Press Releases](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor Release\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n# FTC Takes Action Against Payment Processor Humboldt Merchant Services for Knowingly Facilitating Payment Processing for Sham Merchants\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUnder proposed order, defendant will be required to pay $12 million, stop payment processing for certain categories of merchants\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 8, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Facebook](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/img/social-icons/5296499_fb_facebook_facebook logo_icon.png)![Twitter](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/img/social-icons/x-twitter-black-logo.png)![LinkedIn](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/img/social-icons/317750_linkedin_icon.png)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTags:\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - [Consumer Protection](/consumer-protection)\n - [Regional Offices](/regional-offices)\n - [Northeast Region](/regional-offices/northeast-region)\n - [Bureau of Consumer Protection](/bureau-consumer-protection)\n - [Credit and Finance](/business-guidance/credit-finance)\n - [Payments and Billing](/business-guidance/credit-finance/payments-billing)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPayment processing company Humboldt Merchant Services will pay $12 million and be permanently banned from processing payments for merchants with a heightened risk of potential fraud to settle allegations that Humboldt processed payments for merchants that defrauded consumers.\n\nAccording to the [FTC’s complaint](/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/Humboldt-Complaint.pdf),** **Humboldt processed payments for more than 1,000 merchants that were shell entities that served as fronts or pass-throughs for fraudulent companies engaged in unauthorized billing scams, including [Legion Media](/news-events/news/press-releases/2024/09/ftc-orders-shut-down-unauthorized-billing-credit-card-laundering-schemes-require-turn-over-assets), which the FTC shut down in 2024. \n\n“Humboldt was processing payments for companies despite red flags indicating they were scamming consumers,” said Katherine White, Deputy Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “This case underscores the FTC’s commitment to holding companies accountable for knowingly supporting fraudulent businesses.”\n\nThe FTC’s complaint alleges that Humboldt:\n\n- Opened and processed payments for merchants it knew, or consciously avoided knowing, were shell companies used by undisclosed third parties engaged in fraud;\n- Opened these sham accounts despite red flags indicating the merchants were shells and typically incurred chargebacks at rates that were almost 10 times higher than what credit card brands view as excessive; and \n- Attempted to increase the volume of transactions processed through these sham accounts by placing them on a lower-risk bank “BIN” (a bank identification number licensed by the credit card networks), used by an affiliated entity, to improve the likelihood that attempted transactions would be approved by cardholders’ banks.\n\nIn addition to paying $12 million for consumer redress, the [proposed order will prohibit Humboldt](/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/Humboldt-StipulatedOrder.pdf) from:\n\n- engaging in or assisting others who are engaged in credit card laundering;\n- payment processing for four categories of merchants: \n  - straw companies;\n  - merchants on the Mastercard Alert to Control High-Risk (MATCH) list for reasons including excessive chargebacks, laundering and fraud;\n  - merchants that have been subject to law enforcement action; and\n  - e-commerce entities that use third-party mailbox providers, such as UPS stores, as their only business location and either use negative option billing, are new or do not have past processing history.\n\n- making or assisting others in providing false or misleading information to obtain payment processing, such as misleading information about merchants in applications for merchant accounts; and\n- engaging in, or assisting those engaged in, tactics to avoid fraud and risk monitoring, including load balancing.\n\nThe Commission vote approving the filing of the proposed order was 2-0. The FTC filed the proposed order in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan.\n\n**NOTE: **Stipulated final orders or injunctions have the force of law when approved and signed by the District Court judge.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Federal Trade Commission works to promote competition and [protect and educate consumers](https://www.ftc.gov/about-ftc/bureaus-offices/bureau-consumer-protection). The FTC will never demand money, make threats, tell you to transfer money, or promise you a prize. Learn more about consumer topics at [consumer.ftc.gov](https://consumer.ftc.gov/), or report fraud, scams, and bad business practices at [ReportFraud.ftc.gov](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/). Follow the [FTC on social media](https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/stay-connected/social-media), read [consumer alerts](https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts) and the [business blog](https://www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/blog), and [sign up to get the latest FTC news and alerts](/news-events/stay-connected).\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Contact Information\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Media Contact\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Nicole Drayton](mailto:ndrayton@ftc.gov)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOffice of Public Affairs\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n202-326-2565\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Related Cases\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Humboldt Merchant Services](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/humboldt-merchant-services)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n [**Return to top](#top)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n * [/](/) *\n\n Menu\n\n\n\n## Secondary Menu\n\n\n -  [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n -  [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n -  [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Main navigation\n\n\n -  [Enforcement](/enforcement)\n   -  [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n   -  [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n   -  [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n   -  [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n   -  [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n   -  [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n   -  [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n   -  [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n   -  [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n   -  [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n   -  [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n   -  [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n   -  [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n   -  [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n -  [Policy](/policy)\n   -  [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n   -  [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n   -  [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n   -  [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n   -  [Reports](/policy/reports)\n   -  [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n   -  [Studies](/policy/studies)\n   -  [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n   -  [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n   -  [International](/policy/international)\n   -  [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n -  Advice and Guidance\n   -  [Consumer Advice](http://consumer.ftc.gov/)\n   -  [Military Consumer](https://militaryconsumer.gov/)\n   -  [Consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov/)\n   -  [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n   -  [Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n   -  [Bulk Publications](https://bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n -  [News and Events](/news-events)\n   -  [News](/news-events/news)\n   -  [Events](/news-events/events)\n   -  [Features](/news-events/features)\n   -  [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n   -  [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n   -  [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n   -  [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n   -  [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n   -  [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n -  [About the FTC](/about-ftc)\n   -  [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n   -  [History](/about-ftc/history)\n   -  [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n   -  [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n   -  [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n   -  [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n   -  [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n   -  [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Footer\n\n\n -  [Privacy Policy](/policy-notices/privacy-policy)\n -  [Policy and Notices](/policy-notices)\n -  [Accessibility](/policy-notices/accessibility)\n -  [FOIA](/foia)\n -  [No FEAR Act](/policy-notices/no-fear-act)\n -  [Office of Inspector General](/oig)\n -  [USA.gov](https://www.usa.gov/)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[* *](https://www.facebook.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://www.instagram.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://twitter.com/FTC)\n\n[* *](https://www.linkedin.com/company/163780/)\n\n[* *](https://www.youtube.com/ftcvideos)\n\n[* *](/news-events/stay-connected/ftc-rss-feeds)",
    "content_length": 24928,
    "content_type": "text/html",
    "description": "Payment processing company Humboldt Merchant Services will pay $12 million and be permanently banned from processing payments for merchants with a heightened risk of potential fraud to settle alleg",
    "status_code": 200,
    "success": true,
    "title": "FTC Takes Action Against Payment Processor Humboldt Merchant Services for Knowingly Facilitating Payment Processing for Sham Merchants | Federal Trade Commission",
    "url": "https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-takes-action-against-payment-processor-humboldt-merchant-services-knowingly-facilitating-payment"
  },
  "error": "",
  "elapsed": 0.630322303
}

web_fetch completeddispatch toolu_01TbyF7gt1bhE6JXbYujcYfV

Input

{ "brief": "Nuvei details", "url": "https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/payment-processor-nuvei-must-implement-robust-merchant-screening-practices-pay-485-million-settle" }

Tool Progress E0009

(no result)

Tool Result E0010

{ "content": "Payment Processor Nuvei Must Implement Robust Merchant Screening Practices and Pay $4.85 Million to Settle FTC Charges that the Firm Facilitated Merchant Fraud | Federal Trade Commission [Skip to main content](#main-content)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![U.S. flag](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/us_flag_small.png)\n\n\n\n\n\nAn official website of the United States government\n\n\n\nHere’s how you know\n\n\n\n Here's how you know\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Dot gov](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/icon-dot-gov.svg)\n\n\n\n **The .gov means it’s official.**\n Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a federal government site.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Https](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/icon-https.svg)\n\n\n\n **The site is secure.**\n The **https://** ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Español](/es)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n - [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n * [/](/) *\n\n Menu\n\n\n\n\n\n ![close](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/close.svg)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Main Menu Mega\n\n\n - Show/hide Enforcement menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Enforcement](/enforcement)\n\n\n\nWe enforce federal competition and consumer protection laws that prevent anticompetitive, deceptive, and unfair business practices.\n\n\n\n[View Enforcement](/enforcement)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Search or browse\n the Legal Library\n\n\n\nFind legal resources and guidance to understand your business responsibilities and comply with the law.\n\n\n\n[Browse legal resources](/legal-library/browse)\n\n Search small Search\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n - [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n - [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n - [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n - [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n - [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n - [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n - [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n - [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n - [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n - [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n - [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n - [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n - [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n - [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n - [Submit Merger/Antitrust Comment](/enforcement/submit-merger-antitrust-comment)\n - [File adjudicative documents](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices/office-secretary/document-filing)\n - [Find banned debt collectors](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/banned-debt-collectors)\n - [View competition guidance](/business-guidance/competition-business-guidance)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Competition Matters Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCompetition Matters\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [How Loyalty Discounts Between Firms Harm Competition When There Are Network Effects: FTC v. Surescripts](/enforcement/competition-matters/2026/02/how-loyalty-discounts-between-firms-harm-competition-when-there-are-network-effects-ftc-v-surescripts)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMatthew Chesnes (DAD, BE Antitrust I) and Ted Rosenbaum (Acting BE Director)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFebruary 13, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View all Competition Matters Blog posts](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - Show/hide Policy menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Policy](/policy)\n\n\n\nWe work to advance government policies that protect consumers and promote competition.\n\n\n\n[View Policy](/policy)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Search or browse\n the Legal Library\n\n\n\nFind legal resources and guidance to understand your business responsibilities and comply with the law.\n\n\n\n[Browse legal resources](/legal-library/browse)\n\n Search small Search\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n - [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n - [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n - [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n - [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n - [Reports](/policy/reports)\n - [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Studies](/policy/studies)\n - [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n - [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n - [International](/policy/international)\n - [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n\n - [Find policy statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n - [Submit a public comment](/policy/public-comments)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Technology Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTechnology Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [The FTC Is on the Front Lines of Tech Innovation & Regulation](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc/2025/01/ftc-front-lines-tech-innovation-regulation)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nStephanie T. Nguyen, Chief Technologist\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJanuary 17, 2025\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View all Technology Blog posts](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - Show/hide Advice and Guidance menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Advice and Guidance\n\n\n\nLearn more about your rights as a consumer and how to spot and avoid scams. Find the resources you need to understand how consumer protection law impacts your business.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n - [Report fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov)\n - [Report identity theft](http://www.identitytheft.gov)\n - [Report Take It Down violations](https://takeitdown.ftc.gov)\n - [Register for Do Not Call](https://www.donotcall.gov)\n - [Sign up for consumer alerts](https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USFTCCONSUMER/subscriber/new?topic_id=%5BREDACTED%5D)\n - [Get Business Blog updates](https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USFTCBUSINESS/subscriber/new?category_id=%5BREDACTED%5D)\n - [Get your free credit report](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/free-credit-reports)\n - [Find refund cases](/enforcement/refunds)\n - [Order bulk publications](https://www.bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Consumer Advice](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n - [Shopping and Donating](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/shopping-and-donating)\n - [Credit, Loans, and Debt](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/credit-loans-and-debt)\n - [Jobs and Making Money](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/jobs-and-making-money)\n - [Unwanted Calls, Emails, and Texts](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/unwanted-calls-emails-and-texts)\n - [Identity Theft and Online Security](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/identity-theft-and-online-security)\n - [Scams](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/scams)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n\n - [Advertising and Marketing](/business-guidance/advertising-marketing)\n - [Credit and Finance](/business-guidance/credit-finance)\n - [Privacy and Security](/business-guidance/privacy-security)\n - [By Industry](/business-guidance/industry)\n - [Search the RN database](/rn-database/search)\n - [For Small Businesses](/business-guidance/small-businesses)\n - [Browse Business Guidance Resources](/business-guidance/resources)\n - [Business Blog](/business-guidance/blog)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Servicemembers:\n Your tool for financial readiness\n\n\n\n[Visit militaryconsumer.gov](https://militaryconsumer.gov)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Get consumer protection basics, plain and simple\n\n\n\n[Visit consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Learn how the FTC protects free enterprise and consumers\n\n\n\n[Visit Competition Counts](/enforcement-policy/competition-enforcement/competition-guidance/competition-counts)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Looking for competition guidance?\n\n\n\n[Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - Show/hide News and Events menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [News and Events](/news-events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Latest News\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Publishes Proposed 2027 Budget for Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-publishes-proposed-2027-budget-horseracing-integrity-safety-authority)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 10, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View News and Events](/news-events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Upcoming Event\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNov05\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [Nineteenth Annual Microeconomics Conference](/microeconomics)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Thursday, November 5, 2026 - Friday, November 6, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View more Events](/news-events/events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n - [News](/news-events/news)\n - [Events](/news-events/events)\n - [Features](/news-events/features)\n - [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n - [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n - [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n - [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n - [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n - [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Sign up for the latest news](/news-events/stay-connected)\n\n## Follow us on social media\n\n[* *](https://www.facebook.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://www.instagram.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://twitter.com/FTC)\n\n[* *](https://www.linkedin.com/company/163780/)\n\n[* *](https://www.youtube.com/ftcvideos)\n\n[* *](/news-events/stay-connected#RSS)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Feature\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Freedom 250 flag graphic](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/freedom-250-flag-graphic1.png?itok=JxacvLBI)\n\n\n\n\n\n### [Celebrating 250 Years of Independence](/news-events/features/celebrating-250-years-independence)\n\nThis year, the United States celebrates 250 years of independence. Learn more about our agency's history and commemoration events happening across the nation.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Latest Data Visualization\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Visualization of FTC Refunds to Consumers](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/refunds-tableau.jpg?itok=uqgwQ2yN)\n\n\n\n\n\n### [FTC Refunds to Consumers](https://public.tableau.com/app/profile/federal.trade.commission/viz/Refunds_15797958402020/RefundsbyCase)\n\n\n\nExplore refund statistics including where refunds were sent and the dollar amounts refunded with this visualization.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - Show/hide About the FTC menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [About the FTC](/about-ftc)\n\nThe FTC’s mission is to vigorously enforce the law to protect Americans from anticompetitive, unfair, and deceptive business practices, without unduly burdening legitimate business activity.\n\n[Learn more about the FTC]( /about-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n - [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n - [History](/about-ftc/history)\n - [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n - [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n - [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n - [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n - [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n - [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Featured\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Commissioner Ferguson hi res image](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/commissioner-andrew-n-ferguson-res.jpg?itok=GZrqrqZc)\n\n\n\n\n\n### Meet the Chairman\n\nAndrew N. Ferguson is Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission.\n\n[Chairman Andrew N. Ferguson](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff/andrew-n-ferguson)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - [Search](https://search.usa.gov/search?affiliate=%5BREDACTED%5D) Show/hide Search menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Enter Search Term(s): \n\nLooking for legal documents or records? Search the [Legal Library](/legal-library) instead.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - [English](/)\n - [español](/es/ftc-en-espa%C3%B1ol?menut=1)\n\n\n - [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n - [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n - [Enforcement](/enforcement) Show/hide Enforcement menu items\n - [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n - [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n - [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n - [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n - [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n - [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n - [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n - [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n - [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n - [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n - [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n - [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n - [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n - [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n - [Policy](/policy) Show/hide Policy menu items\n - [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n - [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n - [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n - [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n - [Reports](/policy/reports)\n - [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Studies](/policy/studies)\n - [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n - [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n - [International](/policy/international)\n - [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n - Advice and Guidance Show/hide Advice and Guidance menu items\n - [Consumer Advice](http://consumer.ftc.gov/)\n - [Military Consumer](https://militaryconsumer.gov/)\n - [Consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov/)\n - [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n - [Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n - [Bulk Publications](https://bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n - [News and Events](/news-events) Show/hide News and Events menu items\n - [News](/news-events/news)\n - [Events](/news-events/events)\n - [Features](/news-events/features)\n - [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n - [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n - [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n - [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n - [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n - [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n - [About the FTC](/about-ftc) Show/hide About the FTC menu items\n - [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n - [History](/about-ftc/history)\n - [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n - [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n - [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n - [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n - [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n - [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Enter Search Term(s): \n\nLooking for legal documents or records? Search the [Legal Library](/legal-library) instead.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Breadcrumb\n\n\n - [Home](/)\n - [News and Events](/news-events)\n - [News](/news-events/news)\n - [Press Releases](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor Release\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n# Payment Processor Nuvei Must Implement Robust Merchant Screening Practices and Pay $4.85 Million to Settle FTC Charges that the Firm Facilitated Merchant Fraud\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNuvei and its subsidiaries alleged to have knowingly processed for merchants engaged in fraudulent activity\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 4, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Facebook](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/img/social-icons/5296499_fb_facebook_facebook logo_icon.png)![Twitter](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/img/social-icons/x-twitter-black-logo.png)![LinkedIn](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/img/social-icons/317750_linkedin_icon.png)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTags:\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - [Consumer Protection](/consumer-protection)\n - [Bureau of Consumer Protection](/bureau-consumer-protection)\n - [Credit and Finance](/business-guidance/credit-finance)\n - [Payments and Billing](/business-guidance/credit-finance/payments-billing)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGlobal payment processor Nuvei will pay $4.85 million to settle the Federal Trade Commission’s charges that the firm opened and maintained payment processing accounts for merchants that it knew or should have known were engaged in deception, including tech support scams that took millions of dollars from consumers. \n\nIn its [complaint, the FTC alleges that Canada-based Nuvei Corporation](/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/Nuvei-Complaint.pdf)** **and its subsidiaries, Nuvei International Group Limited, Nuvei Limited, SafeCharge Digital Limited and Nuvei Technologies Inc., processed payments for scammers, including tech support scams targeting U.S. consumers. Specifically, Nuvei processed more than $30 million in consumer payments for Reimage, an offshore tech support scam, from 2017 to 2023, according to the FTC’s complaint. \n\n“Today’s action underscores the Commission’s commitment to ensuring that our payments system operates free of fraud,” said Christopher Mufarrige, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “Our enforcement work reinforces the transparency and trust in the payments system that consumers and businesses depend on. Consumers deserve a payment system that is competitive, transparent and fortified against fraud—and we will take action anytime those standards are threatened.”\n\nThe complaint also alleges that, through its merchant acquiring bank registered in Cyprus, Nuvei furnished Reimage and other overseas deceptive tech support schemes with payment processing accounts that enabled the schemes to take credit card payments from cardholders in the United States and elsewhere. \n\nThe FTC took action against [the operators of Reimage](/news-events/news/press-releases/2024/03/tech-support-firms-will-pay-26-million-settle-ftc-charges-they-deceived-consumers-buying-repair) in 2024 and last year also sued a Europe-based payment processor, [Paddle,](/news-events/news/press-releases/2025/06/paddle-will-pay-5-million-settle-ftc-allegations-unfair-payment-processing-practices-facilitation) which allegedly used its “merchant of record” platform to facilitate Reimage’s deceptive tech support scheme.\n\nThe FTC alleges that, in addition to providing credit card processing accounts for Reimage and other tech support schemes, Nuvei’s U.S.-based subsidiary, Nuvei Technologies Inc., also opened and maintained merchant accounts for merchants allegedly selling business opportunities with false or baseless earnings claims such as DK Automation, merchants impersonating government tax authorities such as American Tax Service and merchants that other payment processors or acquiring banks previously terminated for excessive chargebacks or fraud. The FTC brought enforcement actions against [DK Automation and its founder in November 2022](/news-events/news/press-releases/2022/11/ftc-takes-action-stop-dk-automation-kevin-david-hulse-pitching-phony-amazon-crypto-moneymaking) and against [American Tax Service and its owners in October 2025](/news-events/news/press-releases/2025/10/ftc-nevada-sue-tax-debt-relief-scammers-falsely-impersonating-government).\n\nThe complaint charges Nuvei and its operators with unfair practices in connection with payment processing in violation of the FTC Act and assisting and facilitating deceptive telemarketers in violation of the Telemarketing Sales Rule.\n\n[Under the proposed order with the FTC, Nuvei will pay $4.85 million](/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/Nuvei-Order_0.pdf), which will be used to provide consumer redress. The defendants are also prohibited from engaging in unfair or deceptive payment processing practices like those alleged in the complaint. Specifically, the proposed order:\n\n- Bans Nuvei from providing payment services to any person selling tech support products or services by telemarketing or by pop-up messages relating to security or performance issues on a computer or other device; \n- Prohibits Nuvei from making false or misleading statements to obtain merchant accounts and other payment processing services for itself or others, and engaging in any tactics to avoid fraud or risk monitoring programs established by banks or credit card networks, including load balancing; and \n- Requires Nuvei to screen and monitor its existing and prospective clients, including clients in certain merchant categories such as outbound telemarketing, and conduct enhanced screening and investigation of any existing client whose chargeback rates exceed the limits set forth in the order.\n\nThe Commission vote authorizing the staff to file the complaint and stipulated order was 2-0. The FTC filed the complaint and final order** **in the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona. \n\nChairman Andrew N. Ferguson and Commissioner Mark R. Meador [issued a joint statement](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/public-statements/joint-statement-chairman-andrew-n-ferguson-commissioner-mark-r-meador-matter-nuvei). \n\n**NOTE:** The Commission files a complaint when it has “reason to believe” that the named defendants are violating or are about to violate the law and it appears to the Commission that a proceeding is in the public interest. The case will be decided by the court.\n\nThe lead attorneys in this matter are Russell Deitch and Sung W. Kim in the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Federal Trade Commission works to promote competition and [protect and educate consumers](https://www.ftc.gov/about-ftc/bureaus-offices/bureau-consumer-protection). The FTC will never demand money, make threats, tell you to transfer money, or promise you a prize. Learn more about consumer topics at [consumer.ftc.gov](https://consumer.ftc.gov/), or report fraud, scams, and bad business practices at [ReportFraud.ftc.gov](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/). Follow the [FTC on social media](https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/stay-connected/social-media), read [consumer alerts](https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts) and the [business blog](https://www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/blog), and [sign up to get the latest FTC news and alerts](/news-events/stay-connected).\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Contact Information\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Media Contact\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Nicole Drayton](mailto:ndrayton@ftc.gov)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOffice of Public Affairs\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n202-326-2565\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Related Cases\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Nuvei](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/nuvei)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Related actions\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Joint Statement of Chairman Andrew N. Ferguson and Commissioner Mark R. Meador In the Matter of Nuvei](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/public-statements/joint-statement-chairman-andrew-n-ferguson-commissioner-mark-r-meador-matter-nuvei)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n [**Return to top](#top)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n * [/](/) *\n\n Menu\n\n\n\n## Secondary Menu\n\n\n - [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n - [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Main navigation\n\n\n - [Enforcement](/enforcement)\n - [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n - [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n - [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n - [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n - [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n - [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n - [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n - [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n - [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n - [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n - [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n - [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n - [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n - [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n - [Policy](/policy)\n - [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n - [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n - [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n - [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n - [Reports](/policy/reports)\n - [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Studies](/policy/studies)\n - [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n - [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n - [International](/policy/international)\n - [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n - Advice and Guidance\n - [Consumer Advice](http://consumer.ftc.gov/)\n - [Military Consumer](https://militaryconsumer.gov/)\n - [Consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov/)\n - [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n - [Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n - [Bulk Publications](https://bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n - [News and Events](/news-events)\n - [News](/news-events/news)\n - [Events](/news-events/events)\n - [Features](/news-events/features)\n - [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n - [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n - [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n - [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n - [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n - [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n - [About the FTC](/about-ftc)\n - [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n - [History](/about-ftc/history)\n - [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n - [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n - [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n - [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n - [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n - [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Footer\n\n\n - [Privacy Policy](/policy-notices/privacy-policy)\n - [Policy and Notices](/policy-notices)\n - [Accessibility](/policy-notices/accessibility)\n - [FOIA](/foia)\n - [No FEAR Act](/policy-notices/no-fear-act)\n - [Office of Inspector General](/oig)\n - [USA.gov](https://www.usa.gov/)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[* *](https://www.facebook.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://www.instagram.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://twitter.com/FTC)\n\n[* *](https://www.linkedin.com/company/163780/)\n\n[* *](https://www.youtube.com/ftcvideos)\n\n[* *](/news-events/stay-connected/ftc-rss-feeds)", "content_length": 27268, "content_type": "text/html", "description": "Global payment processor Nuvei will pay $4.85 million to settle the Federal Trade Commission’s charges that the firm opened and maintained payment processing accounts for merchants that it knew or", "status_code": 200, "success": true, "title": "Payment Processor Nuvei Must Implement Robust Merchant Screening Practices and Pay $4.85 Million to Settle FTC Charges that the Firm Facilitated Merchant Fraud | Federal Trade Commission", "url": "https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/payment-processor-nuvei-must-implement-robust-merchant-screening-practices-pay-485-million-settle" }

Sub-agent trace (toolu_01TbyF7gt1bhE6JXbYujcYfV, 3 events)

tools_started web_fetch t=118229.443

Inner payload

{
  "tool_name": "web_fetch",
  "tool_input": {
    "brief": "Nuvei details",
    "url": "https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/payment-processor-nuvei-must-implement-robust-merchant-screening-practices-pay-485-million-settle"
  },
  "dispatch_id": "toolu_01TbyF7gt1bhE6JXbYujcYfV",
  "parent_dispatch_id": "",
  "handle": "",
  "panel_kind": "web_fetch"
}

tools_progress web_fetch t=118229.444

Inner payload

{
  "tool_name": "web_fetch",
  "dispatch_id": "toolu_01TbyF7gt1bhE6JXbYujcYfV",
  "status": "running",
  "result": null,
  "error": "",
  "elapsed": null,
  "fields": {
    "progress": {
      "message": "Nuvei details",
      "metadata": {
        "browser_chain": false,
        "url": "https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/payment-processor-nuvei-must-implement-robust-merchant-screening-practices-pay-485-million-settle"
      }
    },
    "status": "running",
    "updatedAt": 1789169609231
  }
}

tools_completed web_fetch t=118229.445

Inner payload

{
  "tool_name": "web_fetch",
  "dispatch_id": "toolu_01TbyF7gt1bhE6JXbYujcYfV",
  "status": "completed",
  "result": {
    "content": "Payment Processor Nuvei Must Implement Robust Merchant Screening Practices and Pay $4.85 Million to Settle FTC Charges that the Firm Facilitated Merchant Fraud | Federal Trade Commission                            [Skip to main content](#main-content)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![U.S. flag](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/us_flag_small.png)\n\n\n\n\n\nAn official website of the United States government\n\n\n\nHere’s how you know\n\n\n\n  Here's how you know\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Dot gov](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/icon-dot-gov.svg)\n\n\n\n **The .gov means it’s official.**\n Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a federal government site.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Https](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/icon-https.svg)\n\n\n\n **The site is secure.**\n The **https://** ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Español](/es)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n -  [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n -  [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n -  [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n * [/](/) *\n\n Menu\n\n\n\n\n\n  ![close](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/close.svg)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Main Menu Mega\n\n\n -   Show/hide Enforcement menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Enforcement](/enforcement)\n\n\n\nWe enforce federal competition and consumer protection laws that prevent anticompetitive, deceptive, and unfair business practices.\n\n\n\n[View Enforcement](/enforcement)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Search or browse\n the Legal Library\n\n\n\nFind legal resources and guidance to understand your business responsibilities and comply with the law.\n\n\n\n[Browse legal resources](/legal-library/browse)\n\n Search small Search\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n   -  [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n   -  [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n   -  [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n   -  [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n   -  [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n   -  [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n   -  [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n   -  [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n   -  [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n   -  [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n   -  [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n   -  [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n   -  [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n   -  [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n  - [Submit Merger/Antitrust Comment](/enforcement/submit-merger-antitrust-comment)\n  - [File adjudicative documents](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices/office-secretary/document-filing)\n  - [Find banned debt collectors](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/banned-debt-collectors)\n  - [View competition guidance](/business-guidance/competition-business-guidance)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Competition Matters Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCompetition Matters\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [How Loyalty Discounts Between Firms Harm Competition When There Are Network Effects: FTC v. Surescripts](/enforcement/competition-matters/2026/02/how-loyalty-discounts-between-firms-harm-competition-when-there-are-network-effects-ftc-v-surescripts)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMatthew Chesnes (DAD, BE Antitrust I) and Ted Rosenbaum (Acting BE Director)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFebruary 13, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View all Competition Matters Blog posts](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n -   Show/hide Policy menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Policy](/policy)\n\n\n\nWe work to advance government policies that protect consumers and promote competition.\n\n\n\n[View Policy](/policy)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Search or browse\n the Legal Library\n\n\n\nFind legal resources and guidance to understand your business responsibilities and comply with the law.\n\n\n\n[Browse legal resources](/legal-library/browse)\n\n Search small Search\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n   -  [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n   -  [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n   -  [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n   -  [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n   -  [Reports](/policy/reports)\n   -  [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n   -  [Studies](/policy/studies)\n   -  [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n   -  [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n   -  [International](/policy/international)\n   -  [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n\n   - [Find policy statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n   - [Submit a public comment](/policy/public-comments)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Technology Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTechnology Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [The FTC Is on the Front Lines of Tech Innovation & Regulation](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc/2025/01/ftc-front-lines-tech-innovation-regulation)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nStephanie T. Nguyen, Chief Technologist\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJanuary 17, 2025\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View all Technology Blog posts](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n -   Show/hide Advice and Guidance menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Advice and Guidance\n\n\n\nLearn more about your rights as a consumer and how to spot and avoid scams. Find the resources you need to understand how consumer protection law impacts your business.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n  - [Report fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov)\n  - [Report identity theft](http://www.identitytheft.gov)\n  - [Report Take It Down violations](https://takeitdown.ftc.gov)\n  - [Register for Do Not Call](https://www.donotcall.gov)\n  - [Sign up for consumer alerts](https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USFTCCONSUMER/subscriber/new?topic_id=%5BREDACTED%5D)\n  - [Get Business Blog updates](https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USFTCBUSINESS/subscriber/new?category_id=%5BREDACTED%5D)\n  - [Get your free credit report](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/free-credit-reports)\n  - [Find refund cases](/enforcement/refunds)\n  - [Order bulk publications](https://www.bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Consumer Advice](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n   - [Shopping and Donating](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/shopping-and-donating)\n   - [Credit, Loans, and Debt](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/credit-loans-and-debt)\n   - [Jobs and Making Money](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/jobs-and-making-money)\n   - [Unwanted Calls, Emails, and Texts](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/unwanted-calls-emails-and-texts)\n   - [Identity Theft and Online Security](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/identity-theft-and-online-security)\n   - [Scams](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/scams)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n\n  - [Advertising and Marketing](/business-guidance/advertising-marketing)\n  - [Credit and Finance](/business-guidance/credit-finance)\n  - [Privacy and Security](/business-guidance/privacy-security)\n  - [By Industry](/business-guidance/industry)\n  - [Search the RN database](/rn-database/search)\n  - [For Small Businesses](/business-guidance/small-businesses)\n  - [Browse Business Guidance Resources](/business-guidance/resources)\n  - [Business Blog](/business-guidance/blog)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Servicemembers:\n Your tool for financial readiness\n\n\n\n[Visit militaryconsumer.gov](https://militaryconsumer.gov)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Get consumer protection basics, plain and simple\n\n\n\n[Visit consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Learn how the FTC protects free enterprise and consumers\n\n\n\n[Visit Competition Counts](/enforcement-policy/competition-enforcement/competition-guidance/competition-counts)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Looking for competition guidance?\n\n\n\n[Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n -   Show/hide News and Events menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [News and Events](/news-events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Latest News\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Publishes Proposed 2027 Budget for Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-publishes-proposed-2027-budget-horseracing-integrity-safety-authority)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 10, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View News and Events](/news-events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Upcoming Event\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNov05\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [Nineteenth Annual Microeconomics Conference](/microeconomics)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Thursday, November 5, 2026 - Friday, November 6, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View more Events](/news-events/events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n   -  [News](/news-events/news)\n   -  [Events](/news-events/events)\n   -  [Features](/news-events/features)\n   -  [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n   -  [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n   -  [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n   -  [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n   -  [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n   -  [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Sign up for the latest news](/news-events/stay-connected)\n\n## Follow us on social media\n\n[* *](https://www.facebook.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://www.instagram.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://twitter.com/FTC)\n\n[* *](https://www.linkedin.com/company/163780/)\n\n[* *](https://www.youtube.com/ftcvideos)\n\n[* *](/news-events/stay-connected#RSS)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Feature\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Freedom 250 flag graphic](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/freedom-250-flag-graphic1.png?itok=JxacvLBI)\n\n\n\n\n\n### [Celebrating 250 Years of Independence](/news-events/features/celebrating-250-years-independence)\n\nThis year, the United States celebrates 250 years of independence. Learn more about our agency's history and commemoration events happening across the nation.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Latest Data Visualization\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Visualization of FTC Refunds to Consumers](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/refunds-tableau.jpg?itok=uqgwQ2yN)\n\n\n\n\n\n### [FTC Refunds to Consumers](https://public.tableau.com/app/profile/federal.trade.commission/viz/Refunds_15797958402020/RefundsbyCase)\n\n\n\nExplore refund statistics including where refunds were sent and the dollar amounts refunded with this visualization.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n -   Show/hide About the FTC menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [About the FTC](/about-ftc)\n\nThe FTC’s mission is to vigorously enforce the law to protect Americans from anticompetitive, unfair, and deceptive business practices, without unduly burdening legitimate business activity.\n\n[Learn more about the FTC]( /about-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n   -  [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n   -  [History](/about-ftc/history)\n   -  [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n   -  [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n   -  [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n   -  [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n   -  [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n   -  [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Featured\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Commissioner Ferguson hi res image](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/commissioner-andrew-n-ferguson-res.jpg?itok=GZrqrqZc)\n\n\n\n\n\n### Meet the Chairman\n\nAndrew N. Ferguson is Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission.\n\n[Chairman Andrew N. Ferguson](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff/andrew-n-ferguson)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n -  [Search](https://search.usa.gov/search?affiliate=%5BREDACTED%5D)  Show/hide Search menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Enter Search Term(s):   \n\nLooking for legal documents or records? Search the [Legal Library](/legal-library) instead.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n -  [English](/)\n -  [español](/es/ftc-en-espa%C3%B1ol?menut=1)\n\n\n -  [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n -  [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n -  [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n -  [Enforcement](/enforcement)  Show/hide Enforcement menu items\n   -  [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n   -  [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n   -  [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n   -  [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n   -  [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n   -  [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n   -  [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n   -  [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n   -  [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n   -  [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n   -  [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n   -  [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n   -  [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n   -  [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n -  [Policy](/policy)  Show/hide Policy menu items\n   -  [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n   -  [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n   -  [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n   -  [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n   -  [Reports](/policy/reports)\n   -  [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n   -  [Studies](/policy/studies)\n   -  [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n   -  [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n   -  [International](/policy/international)\n   -  [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n -  Advice and Guidance  Show/hide Advice and Guidance menu items\n   -  [Consumer Advice](http://consumer.ftc.gov/)\n   -  [Military Consumer](https://militaryconsumer.gov/)\n   -  [Consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov/)\n   -  [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n   -  [Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n   -  [Bulk Publications](https://bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n -  [News and Events](/news-events)  Show/hide News and Events menu items\n   -  [News](/news-events/news)\n   -  [Events](/news-events/events)\n   -  [Features](/news-events/features)\n   -  [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n   -  [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n   -  [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n   -  [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n   -  [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n   -  [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n -  [About the FTC](/about-ftc)  Show/hide About the FTC menu items\n   -  [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n   -  [History](/about-ftc/history)\n   -  [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n   -  [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n   -  [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n   -  [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n   -  [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n   -  [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Enter Search Term(s):   \n\nLooking for legal documents or records? Search the [Legal Library](/legal-library) instead.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Breadcrumb\n\n\n -  [Home](/)\n -  [News and Events](/news-events)\n -  [News](/news-events/news)\n -  [Press Releases](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor Release\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n# Payment Processor Nuvei Must Implement Robust Merchant Screening Practices and Pay $4.85 Million to Settle FTC Charges that the Firm Facilitated Merchant Fraud\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNuvei and its subsidiaries alleged to have knowingly processed for merchants engaged in fraudulent activity\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 4, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Facebook](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/img/social-icons/5296499_fb_facebook_facebook logo_icon.png)![Twitter](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/img/social-icons/x-twitter-black-logo.png)![LinkedIn](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/img/social-icons/317750_linkedin_icon.png)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTags:\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - [Consumer Protection](/consumer-protection)\n - [Bureau of Consumer Protection](/bureau-consumer-protection)\n - [Credit and Finance](/business-guidance/credit-finance)\n - [Payments and Billing](/business-guidance/credit-finance/payments-billing)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGlobal payment processor Nuvei will pay $4.85 million to settle the Federal Trade Commission’s charges that the firm opened and maintained payment processing accounts for merchants that it knew or should have known were engaged in deception, including tech support scams that took millions of dollars from consumers. \n\nIn its [complaint, the FTC alleges that Canada-based Nuvei Corporation](/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/Nuvei-Complaint.pdf)** **and its subsidiaries, Nuvei International Group Limited, Nuvei Limited, SafeCharge Digital Limited and Nuvei Technologies Inc., processed payments for scammers, including tech support scams targeting U.S. consumers. Specifically, Nuvei processed more than $30 million in consumer payments for Reimage, an offshore tech support scam, from 2017 to 2023, according to the FTC’s complaint. \n\n“Today’s action underscores the Commission’s commitment to ensuring that our payments system operates free of fraud,” said Christopher Mufarrige, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “Our enforcement work reinforces the transparency and trust in the payments system that consumers and businesses depend on. Consumers deserve a payment system that is competitive, transparent and fortified against fraud—and we will take action anytime those standards are threatened.”\n\nThe complaint also alleges that, through its merchant acquiring bank registered in Cyprus, Nuvei furnished Reimage and other overseas deceptive tech support schemes with payment processing accounts that enabled the schemes to take credit card payments from cardholders in the United States and elsewhere. \n\nThe FTC took action against [the operators of Reimage](/news-events/news/press-releases/2024/03/tech-support-firms-will-pay-26-million-settle-ftc-charges-they-deceived-consumers-buying-repair) in 2024 and last year also sued a Europe-based payment processor, [Paddle,](/news-events/news/press-releases/2025/06/paddle-will-pay-5-million-settle-ftc-allegations-unfair-payment-processing-practices-facilitation) which allegedly used its “merchant of record” platform to facilitate Reimage’s deceptive tech support scheme.\n\nThe FTC alleges that, in addition to providing credit card processing accounts for Reimage and other tech support schemes, Nuvei’s U.S.-based subsidiary, Nuvei Technologies Inc., also opened and maintained merchant accounts for merchants allegedly selling business opportunities with false or baseless earnings claims such as DK Automation, merchants impersonating government tax authorities such as American Tax Service and merchants that other payment processors or acquiring banks previously terminated for excessive chargebacks or fraud. The FTC brought enforcement actions against [DK Automation and its founder in November 2022](/news-events/news/press-releases/2022/11/ftc-takes-action-stop-dk-automation-kevin-david-hulse-pitching-phony-amazon-crypto-moneymaking) and against [American Tax Service and its owners in October 2025](/news-events/news/press-releases/2025/10/ftc-nevada-sue-tax-debt-relief-scammers-falsely-impersonating-government).\n\nThe complaint charges Nuvei and its operators with unfair practices in connection with payment processing in violation of the FTC Act and assisting and facilitating deceptive telemarketers in violation of the Telemarketing Sales Rule.\n\n[Under the proposed order with the FTC, Nuvei will pay $4.85 million](/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/Nuvei-Order_0.pdf), which will be used to provide consumer redress. The defendants are also prohibited from engaging in unfair or deceptive payment processing practices like those alleged in the complaint. Specifically, the proposed order:\n\n- Bans Nuvei from providing payment services to any person selling tech support products or services by telemarketing or by pop-up messages relating to security or performance issues on a computer or other device; \n- Prohibits Nuvei from making false or misleading statements to obtain merchant accounts and other payment processing services for itself or others, and engaging in any tactics to avoid fraud or risk monitoring programs established by banks or credit card networks, including load balancing; and \n- Requires Nuvei to screen and monitor its existing and prospective clients, including clients in certain merchant categories such as outbound telemarketing, and conduct enhanced screening and investigation of any existing client whose chargeback rates exceed the limits set forth in the order.\n\nThe Commission vote authorizing the staff to file the complaint and stipulated order was 2-0. The FTC filed the complaint and final order** **in the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona. \n\nChairman Andrew N. Ferguson and Commissioner Mark R. Meador [issued a joint statement](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/public-statements/joint-statement-chairman-andrew-n-ferguson-commissioner-mark-r-meador-matter-nuvei).  \n\n**NOTE:** The Commission files a complaint when it has “reason to believe” that the named defendants are violating or are about to violate the law and it appears to the Commission that a proceeding is in the public interest. The case will be decided by the court.\n\nThe lead attorneys in this matter are Russell Deitch and Sung W. Kim in the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Federal Trade Commission works to promote competition and [protect and educate consumers](https://www.ftc.gov/about-ftc/bureaus-offices/bureau-consumer-protection). The FTC will never demand money, make threats, tell you to transfer money, or promise you a prize. Learn more about consumer topics at [consumer.ftc.gov](https://consumer.ftc.gov/), or report fraud, scams, and bad business practices at [ReportFraud.ftc.gov](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/). Follow the [FTC on social media](https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/stay-connected/social-media), read [consumer alerts](https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts) and the [business blog](https://www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/blog), and [sign up to get the latest FTC news and alerts](/news-events/stay-connected).\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Contact Information\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Media Contact\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Nicole Drayton](mailto:ndrayton@ftc.gov)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOffice of Public Affairs\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n202-326-2565\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Related Cases\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Nuvei](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/nuvei)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Related actions\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Joint Statement of Chairman Andrew N. Ferguson and Commissioner Mark R. Meador In the Matter of Nuvei](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/public-statements/joint-statement-chairman-andrew-n-ferguson-commissioner-mark-r-meador-matter-nuvei)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n [**Return to top](#top)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n * [/](/) *\n\n Menu\n\n\n\n## Secondary Menu\n\n\n -  [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n -  [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n -  [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Main navigation\n\n\n -  [Enforcement](/enforcement)\n   -  [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n   -  [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n   -  [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n   -  [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n   -  [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n   -  [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n   -  [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n   -  [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n   -  [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n   -  [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n   -  [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n   -  [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n   -  [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n   -  [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n -  [Policy](/policy)\n   -  [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n   -  [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n   -  [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n   -  [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n   -  [Reports](/policy/reports)\n   -  [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n   -  [Studies](/policy/studies)\n   -  [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n   -  [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n   -  [International](/policy/international)\n   -  [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n -  Advice and Guidance\n   -  [Consumer Advice](http://consumer.ftc.gov/)\n   -  [Military Consumer](https://militaryconsumer.gov/)\n   -  [Consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov/)\n   -  [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n   -  [Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n   -  [Bulk Publications](https://bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n -  [News and Events](/news-events)\n   -  [News](/news-events/news)\n   -  [Events](/news-events/events)\n   -  [Features](/news-events/features)\n   -  [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n   -  [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n   -  [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n   -  [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n   -  [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n   -  [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n -  [About the FTC](/about-ftc)\n   -  [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n   -  [History](/about-ftc/history)\n   -  [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n   -  [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n   -  [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n   -  [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n   -  [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n   -  [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Footer\n\n\n -  [Privacy Policy](/policy-notices/privacy-policy)\n -  [Policy and Notices](/policy-notices)\n -  [Accessibility](/policy-notices/accessibility)\n -  [FOIA](/foia)\n -  [No FEAR Act](/policy-notices/no-fear-act)\n -  [Office of Inspector General](/oig)\n -  [USA.gov](https://www.usa.gov/)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[* *](https://www.facebook.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://www.instagram.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://twitter.com/FTC)\n\n[* *](https://www.linkedin.com/company/163780/)\n\n[* *](https://www.youtube.com/ftcvideos)\n\n[* *](/news-events/stay-connected/ftc-rss-feeds)",
    "content_length": 27268,
    "content_type": "text/html",
    "description": "Global payment processor Nuvei will pay $4.85 million to settle the Federal Trade Commission’s charges that the firm opened and maintained payment processing accounts for merchants that it knew or",
    "status_code": 200,
    "success": true,
    "title": "Payment Processor Nuvei Must Implement Robust Merchant Screening Practices and Pay $4.85 Million to Settle FTC Charges that the Firm Facilitated Merchant Fraud | Federal Trade Commission",
    "url": "https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/payment-processor-nuvei-must-implement-robust-merchant-screening-practices-pay-485-million-settle"
  },
  "error": "",
  "elapsed": 0.673472832
}

web_fetch completeddispatch toolu_015tH8634JQyNqvFUWFMLYfg

Input

{ "brief": "Amazon suit details", "url": "https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-states-sue-amazon-over-secret-ad-surcharge-scheme" }

Tool Progress E0012

(no result)

Tool Result E0013

{ "content": "FTC, States Sue Amazon Over Secret Ad Surcharge Scheme | Federal Trade Commission [Skip to main content](#main-content)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![U.S. flag](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/us_flag_small.png)\n\n\n\n\n\nAn official website of the United States government\n\n\n\nHere’s how you know\n\n\n\n Here's how you know\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Dot gov](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/icon-dot-gov.svg)\n\n\n\n **The .gov means it’s official.**\n Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a federal government site.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Https](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/icon-https.svg)\n\n\n\n **The site is secure.**\n The **https://** ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Español](/es)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n - [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n * [/](/) *\n\n Menu\n\n\n\n\n\n ![close](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/close.svg)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Main Menu Mega\n\n\n - Show/hide Enforcement menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Enforcement](/enforcement)\n\n\n\nWe enforce federal competition and consumer protection laws that prevent anticompetitive, deceptive, and unfair business practices.\n\n\n\n[View Enforcement](/enforcement)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Search or browse\n the Legal Library\n\n\n\nFind legal resources and guidance to understand your business responsibilities and comply with the law.\n\n\n\n[Browse legal resources](/legal-library/browse)\n\n Search small Search\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n - [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n - [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n - [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n - [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n - [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n - [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n - [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n - [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n - [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n - [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n - [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n - [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n - [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n - [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n - [Submit Merger/Antitrust Comment](/enforcement/submit-merger-antitrust-comment)\n - [File adjudicative documents](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices/office-secretary/document-filing)\n - [Find banned debt collectors](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/banned-debt-collectors)\n - [View competition guidance](/business-guidance/competition-business-guidance)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Competition Matters Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCompetition Matters\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [How Loyalty Discounts Between Firms Harm Competition When There Are Network Effects: FTC v. Surescripts](/enforcement/competition-matters/2026/02/how-loyalty-discounts-between-firms-harm-competition-when-there-are-network-effects-ftc-v-surescripts)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMatthew Chesnes (DAD, BE Antitrust I) and Ted Rosenbaum (Acting BE Director)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFebruary 13, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View all Competition Matters Blog posts](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - Show/hide Policy menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Policy](/policy)\n\n\n\nWe work to advance government policies that protect consumers and promote competition.\n\n\n\n[View Policy](/policy)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Search or browse\n the Legal Library\n\n\n\nFind legal resources and guidance to understand your business responsibilities and comply with the law.\n\n\n\n[Browse legal resources](/legal-library/browse)\n\n Search small Search\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n - [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n - [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n - [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n - [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n - [Reports](/policy/reports)\n - [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Studies](/policy/studies)\n - [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n - [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n - [International](/policy/international)\n - [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n\n - [Find policy statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n - [Submit a public comment](/policy/public-comments)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Technology Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTechnology Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [The FTC Is on the Front Lines of Tech Innovation & Regulation](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc/2025/01/ftc-front-lines-tech-innovation-regulation)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nStephanie T. Nguyen, Chief Technologist\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJanuary 17, 2025\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View all Technology Blog posts](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - Show/hide Advice and Guidance menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Advice and Guidance\n\n\n\nLearn more about your rights as a consumer and how to spot and avoid scams. Find the resources you need to understand how consumer protection law impacts your business.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n - [Report fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov)\n - [Report identity theft](http://www.identitytheft.gov)\n - [Report Take It Down violations](https://takeitdown.ftc.gov)\n - [Register for Do Not Call](https://www.donotcall.gov)\n - [Sign up for consumer alerts](https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USFTCCONSUMER/subscriber/new?topic_id=%5BREDACTED%5D)\n - [Get Business Blog updates](https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USFTCBUSINESS/subscriber/new?category_id=%5BREDACTED%5D)\n - [Get your free credit report](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/free-credit-reports)\n - [Find refund cases](/enforcement/refunds)\n - [Order bulk publications](https://www.bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Consumer Advice](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n - [Shopping and Donating](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/shopping-and-donating)\n - [Credit, Loans, and Debt](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/credit-loans-and-debt)\n - [Jobs and Making Money](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/jobs-and-making-money)\n - [Unwanted Calls, Emails, and Texts](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/unwanted-calls-emails-and-texts)\n - [Identity Theft and Online Security](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/identity-theft-and-online-security)\n - [Scams](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/scams)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n\n - [Advertising and Marketing](/business-guidance/advertising-marketing)\n - [Credit and Finance](/business-guidance/credit-finance)\n - [Privacy and Security](/business-guidance/privacy-security)\n - [By Industry](/business-guidance/industry)\n - [Search the RN database](/rn-database/search)\n - [For Small Businesses](/business-guidance/small-businesses)\n - [Browse Business Guidance Resources](/business-guidance/resources)\n - [Business Blog](/business-guidance/blog)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Servicemembers:\n Your tool for financial readiness\n\n\n\n[Visit militaryconsumer.gov](https://militaryconsumer.gov)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Get consumer protection basics, plain and simple\n\n\n\n[Visit consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Learn how the FTC protects free enterprise and consumers\n\n\n\n[Visit Competition Counts](/enforcement-policy/competition-enforcement/competition-guidance/competition-counts)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Looking for competition guidance?\n\n\n\n[Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - Show/hide News and Events menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [News and Events](/news-events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Latest News\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Publishes Proposed 2027 Budget for Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-publishes-proposed-2027-budget-horseracing-integrity-safety-authority)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 10, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View News and Events](/news-events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Upcoming Event\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNov05\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [Nineteenth Annual Microeconomics Conference](/microeconomics)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Thursday, November 5, 2026 - Friday, November 6, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View more Events](/news-events/events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n - [News](/news-events/news)\n - [Events](/news-events/events)\n - [Features](/news-events/features)\n - [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n - [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n - [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n - [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n - [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n - [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Sign up for the latest news](/news-events/stay-connected)\n\n## Follow us on social media\n\n[* *](https://www.facebook.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://www.instagram.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://twitter.com/FTC)\n\n[* *](https://www.linkedin.com/company/163780/)\n\n[* *](https://www.youtube.com/ftcvideos)\n\n[* *](/news-events/stay-connected#RSS)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Feature\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Freedom 250 flag graphic](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/freedom-250-flag-graphic1.png?itok=JxacvLBI)\n\n\n\n\n\n### [Celebrating 250 Years of Independence](/news-events/features/celebrating-250-years-independence)\n\nThis year, the United States celebrates 250 years of independence. Learn more about our agency's history and commemoration events happening across the nation.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Latest Data Visualization\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Visualization of FTC Refunds to Consumers](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/refunds-tableau.jpg?itok=uqgwQ2yN)\n\n\n\n\n\n### [FTC Refunds to Consumers](https://public.tableau.com/app/profile/federal.trade.commission/viz/Refunds_15797958402020/RefundsbyCase)\n\n\n\nExplore refund statistics including where refunds were sent and the dollar amounts refunded with this visualization.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - Show/hide About the FTC menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [About the FTC](/about-ftc)\n\nThe FTC’s mission is to vigorously enforce the law to protect Americans from anticompetitive, unfair, and deceptive business practices, without unduly burdening legitimate business activity.\n\n[Learn more about the FTC]( /about-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n - [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n - [History](/about-ftc/history)\n - [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n - [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n - [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n - [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n - [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n - [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Featured\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Commissioner Ferguson hi res image](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/commissioner-andrew-n-ferguson-res.jpg?itok=GZrqrqZc)\n\n\n\n\n\n### Meet the Chairman\n\nAndrew N. Ferguson is Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission.\n\n[Chairman Andrew N. Ferguson](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff/andrew-n-ferguson)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - [Search](https://search.usa.gov/search?affiliate=%5BREDACTED%5D) Show/hide Search menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Enter Search Term(s): \n\nLooking for legal documents or records? Search the [Legal Library](/legal-library) instead.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - [English](/)\n - [español](/es/ftc-en-espa%C3%B1ol?menut=1)\n\n\n - [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n - [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n - [Enforcement](/enforcement) Show/hide Enforcement menu items\n - [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n - [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n - [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n - [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n - [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n - [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n - [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n - [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n - [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n - [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n - [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n - [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n - [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n - [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n - [Policy](/policy) Show/hide Policy menu items\n - [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n - [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n - [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n - [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n - [Reports](/policy/reports)\n - [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Studies](/policy/studies)\n - [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n - [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n - [International](/policy/international)\n - [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n - Advice and Guidance Show/hide Advice and Guidance menu items\n - [Consumer Advice](http://consumer.ftc.gov/)\n - [Military Consumer](https://militaryconsumer.gov/)\n - [Consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov/)\n - [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n - [Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n - [Bulk Publications](https://bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n - [News and Events](/news-events) Show/hide News and Events menu items\n - [News](/news-events/news)\n - [Events](/news-events/events)\n - [Features](/news-events/features)\n - [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n - [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n - [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n - [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n - [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n - [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n - [About the FTC](/about-ftc) Show/hide About the FTC menu items\n - [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n - [History](/about-ftc/history)\n - [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n - [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n - [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n - [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n - [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n - [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Enter Search Term(s): \n\nLooking for legal documents or records? Search the [Legal Library](/legal-library) instead.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Breadcrumb\n\n\n - [Home](/)\n - [News and Events](/news-events)\n - [News](/news-events/news)\n - [Press Releases](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor Release\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n# FTC, States Sue Amazon Over Secret Ad Surcharge Scheme\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFTC and 22 state attorneys general allege Amazon concealed unfair charges in its digital advertising auction pricing\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 31, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Facebook](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/img/social-icons/5296499_fb_facebook_facebook logo_icon.png)![Twitter](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/img/social-icons/x-twitter-black-logo.png)![LinkedIn](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/img/social-icons/317750_linkedin_icon.png)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTags:\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - [Consumer Protection](/consumer-protection)\n - [Bureau of Consumer Protection](/bureau-consumer-protection)\n - [Advertising and Marketing](/business-guidance/advertising-marketing)\n - [Online Advertising and Marketing](/business-guidance/advertising-marketing/online-advertising-marketing)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nToday, 22 states joined the Federal Trade Commission in filing suit against Amazon, alleging that the company engaged in deceptive and unfair practices that secretly inflated prices in its online search advertising auctions. The [complaint](/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/AmazonAds-Complaint.pdf)** **alleges that, for over seven years, Amazon has covertly and substantially increased the prices that more than one million brands and sellers were required to pay to advertise on its platform. As a result, the complaint alleges that Amazon’s scheme has likely extracted tens of billions of dollars from its unwitting advertising customers.\n\n“When one of the world’s largest online retailers engages in unfair and deceptive conduct, the impact can be staggering,” said Chairman Andrew N. Ferguson. “Amazon has millions of advertising customers who were misled into paying significantly higher prices. These higher costs were largely passed on to American consumers. The FTC under President Trump won’t allow this deception to continue.”\n\nThe FTC, along with the attorneys general of Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Vermont and Washington, allege Amazon has imposed undisclosed surcharges on its advertising customers, which include over 500,000 small- and medium-sized businesses that participated in auctions for advertising placements on Amazon.com and its mobile app.\n\nIn these auctions, prospective advertisers bid to place Sponsored Product ads, Sponsored Brands ads and Display Ads alongside the results that appear when a consumer searches for a product using a keyword on Amazon’s store. Placements are auctioned to the highest-ranked bidder for each keyword.\n\nAs described in the complaint, Amazon has represented to prospective advertisers for years that Amazon runs “second price” auctions where the winner of the auction would only pay “one cent more than the next highest bidder” for each successful bid for an advertising keyword. However, in practice, the complaint alleges that Amazon has charged its Sponsored Products advertisers their own winning bid close to 80% of the time and has effectively converted its nominally “second price” auction into a first price auction.\n\nAccording to the complaint, Amazon’s “second price” auctions have been described by Amazon, and understood by advertisers, to be run as generalized second-price, or GSP auctions, which have been the accepted industry standard for digital advertising placements.\n\nThe complaint states that Amazon has made these or similar representations on its website, in training videos and in other public-facing materials, as well as in presentations made to advertisers by its hundreds of sales personnel. \n\nThe type of auction matters to advertisers because it impacts how they bid. In a sealed first-price auction—the type of auction where winners pay the amount of their winning bid—bidders run the risk that they might overbid. So, in repetitive auctions for the same goods, they will often reduce their bid to determine what the minimum amount needed to win future auctions might be. This is called bid shading.\n\nIn second-price auctions, bidders are more likely to bid higher, closer to their true value for the product, because they will only be liable to pay the least bid amount needed to win under the auction’s rules. \n\nAs alleged in the complaint, Amazon told advertisers it ran a GSP, but for years its auction pricing had “a surcharge hidden in it,” in the words of one internal Amazon document. The complaint alleges that, beginning in 2019, Amazon changed its auction rules without notice by adding an undisclosed surcharge that Amazon referred to internally as a “soft reserve price.” This resulted in advertisers paying substantially more than the price determined by the GSP auction. \n\nAccording to the complaint, Amazon made this surreptitious change to its auction because it was unhappy about how much revenue its advertising auctions were generating. The complaint quotes from the executive in charge of Amazon Ads who explained internally that the price paid by advertisers “isn’t set by an actual bidder,” but is instead a “proxy 2nd price that we calculate.” In another document quoted in the complaint, Amazon acknowledged it uses an “invented auction participant” to increase prices. The complaint alleges that Amazon’s “invented auction participant” and its hidden “proxy 2nd price” bids are essentially shill bids. The complaint also quotes from another Amazon employee, who stated that Amazon’s surcharges enable it to obtain prices “beyond what [can] be achieved through advertiser competition.” \n\nThe complaint alleges that Amazon’s unlawful scheme has generated tens of billions of dollars of revenue for the company by, for example, substantially increasing the prices charged to advertisers on ordinary shopping days and applying far greater increases to prices on high-volume shopping days like Prime Day and Black Friday. The complaint quotes notes from a 2024 discussion between senior executives, including the head of Amazon Ads and Amazon’s Chief Digital Economist, where it was acknowledged that Amazon’s “clever non-transparent way to charge first price” has been an “incredibly effective way to drive revenue.”\n\nAs described in the complaint, because Amazon understood that revealing the surcharges—and the fact that the auction was no longer a genuine second-price auction—would lead to significant backlash from its advertising customers, Amazon spent years concealing the changes from the public. For example, leading up to the high-volume days, Amazon carefully ramps up surcharges to disguise the fact that it is inflating prices. Amazon has repeatedly deployed such underhanded tactics to increase its surcharges to meet revenue targets. \n\nAmazon knows that it benefits from its advertisers’ false belief that the prices they pay are set by fair, competitive second-price auctions, according to the complaint. The complaint quotes from Amazon employees acknowledging that advertisers “are operating under the assumption that Amazon uses a GSP auction,” that advertisers “believe Amazon will not simply charge their first price,” and that as a result “many advertisers bid far higher than what they are willing to pay … because they assume [the auction is] a GSP.”\n\nAccording to the complaint, the truth is that advertisers have not been competing in fair GSP auctions. The complaint alleges that, over the past several years, Amazon’s surcharges have resulted in advertisers paying their own bid amount an increasingly high amount of the time. For Sponsored Products ads, the complaint alleges that the percentage of the time advertisers paid the amount of their bid increased from between 30% and 40% in 2021, to 70% in 2022, and to approximately 80% in 2024 as a result of the surcharges. But Amazon has actively concealed this fact from advertisers to prevent them from lowering their bids, according to the complaint.\n\nThe complaint alleges that Amazon and its senior executives took active steps to conceal its surcharge pricing system from its advertisers, including giving false and misleading answers to advertisers who asked the company directly if it had changed its auction format, so that they would continue to be deceived about how the prices they pay are set. The complaint quotes from Amazon’s internal documents, stating that revealing the surcharges would result in “irrevocable damage to advertiser trust” and a “downward spiral” of advertisers lowering their bids, leading to dramatic losses of revenue for Amazon.\n\nAccording to the complaint, Amazon has continually tested and monitored its customers to increase its prices without getting caught, and, to date, this scheme has been successful. The complaint quotes from one Amazon employee who said that the company’s hidden surcharges are “good for Amazon” because “advertisers must pay more for the same advertising,” and “the benefit to Amazon comes at the cost of advertisers.” \n\nThe Commission vote authorizing staff to file the complaint was 2-0. It was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington. The attorneys on this matter include Jonathan Platt, Darren Lubetzky, Adam Hersh, Vikram Jagadish, Jason Kornmehl and Ishan Shivakumar from the FTC’s Northeast Regional office.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Federal Trade Commission works to promote competition and [protect and educate consumers](https://www.ftc.gov/about-ftc/bureaus-offices/bureau-consumer-protection). The FTC will never demand money, make threats, tell you to transfer money, or promise you a prize. Learn more about consumer topics at [consumer.ftc.gov](https://consumer.ftc.gov/), or report fraud, scams, and bad business practices at [ReportFraud.ftc.gov](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/). Follow the [FTC on social media](https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/stay-connected/social-media), read [consumer alerts](https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts) and the [business blog](https://www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/blog), and [sign up to get the latest FTC news and alerts](/news-events/stay-connected).\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Contact Information\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Media Contact\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Office of Public Affairs](mailto:opa@ftc.gov)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOffice of Public Affairs\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n202-326-2180\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Related Cases\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Amazon](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/amazon)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Topics\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Protecting Consumers](/news-events/topics/truth-advertising/protecting-consumers)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n [**Return to top](#top)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n * [/](/) *\n\n Menu\n\n\n\n## Secondary Menu\n\n\n - [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n - [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Main navigation\n\n\n - [Enforcement](/enforcement)\n - [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n - [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n - [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n - [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n - [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n - [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n - [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n - [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n - [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n - [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n - [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n - [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n - [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n - [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n - [Policy](/policy)\n - [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n - [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n - [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n - [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n - [Reports](/policy/reports)\n - [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Studies](/policy/studies)\n - [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n - [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n - [International](/policy/international)\n - [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n - Advice and Guidance\n - [Consumer Advice](http://consumer.ftc.gov/)\n - [Military Consumer](https://militaryconsumer.gov/)\n - [Consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov/)\n - [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n - [Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n - [Bulk Publications](https://bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n - [News and Events](/news-events)\n - [News](/news-events/news)\n - [Events](/news-events/events)\n - [Features](/news-events/features)\n - [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n - [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n - [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n - [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n - [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n - [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n - [About the FTC](/about-ftc)\n - [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n - [History](/about-ftc/history)\n - [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n - [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n - [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n - [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n - [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n - [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Footer\n\n\n - [Privacy Policy](/policy-notices/privacy-policy)\n - [Policy and Notices](/policy-notices)\n - [Accessibility](/policy-notices/accessibility)\n - [FOIA](/foia)\n - [No FEAR Act](/policy-notices/no-fear-act)\n - [Office of Inspector General](/oig)\n - [USA.gov](https://www.usa.gov/)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[* *](https://www.facebook.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://www.instagram.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://twitter.com/FTC)\n\n[* *](https://www.linkedin.com/company/163780/)\n\n[* *](https://www.youtube.com/ftcvideos)\n\n[* *](/news-events/stay-connected/ftc-rss-feeds)", "content_length": 30226, "content_type": "text/html", "description": "Today, 22 states joined the Federal Trade Commission in filing suit against Amazon, alleging that the company engaged in deceptive and unfair practices that secretly inflated prices in its online s", "status_code": 200, "success": true, "title": "FTC, States Sue Amazon Over Secret Ad Surcharge Scheme | Federal Trade Commission", "url": "https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-states-sue-amazon-over-secret-ad-surcharge-scheme" }

Sub-agent trace (toolu_015tH8634JQyNqvFUWFMLYfg, 3 events)

tools_started web_fetch t=118229.446

Inner payload

{
  "tool_name": "web_fetch",
  "tool_input": {
    "brief": "Amazon suit details",
    "url": "https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-states-sue-amazon-over-secret-ad-surcharge-scheme"
  },
  "dispatch_id": "toolu_015tH8634JQyNqvFUWFMLYfg",
  "parent_dispatch_id": "",
  "handle": "",
  "panel_kind": "web_fetch"
}

tools_progress web_fetch t=118229.447

Inner payload

{
  "tool_name": "web_fetch",
  "dispatch_id": "toolu_015tH8634JQyNqvFUWFMLYfg",
  "status": "running",
  "result": null,
  "error": "",
  "elapsed": null,
  "fields": {
    "progress": {
      "message": "Amazon suit details",
      "metadata": {
        "browser_chain": false,
        "url": "https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-states-sue-amazon-over-secret-ad-surcharge-scheme"
      }
    },
    "status": "running",
    "updatedAt": 1789169609248
  }
}

tools_completed web_fetch t=118229.448

Inner payload

{
  "tool_name": "web_fetch",
  "dispatch_id": "toolu_015tH8634JQyNqvFUWFMLYfg",
  "status": "completed",
  "result": {
    "content": "FTC, States Sue Amazon Over Secret Ad Surcharge Scheme | Federal Trade Commission                            [Skip to main content](#main-content)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![U.S. flag](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/us_flag_small.png)\n\n\n\n\n\nAn official website of the United States government\n\n\n\nHere’s how you know\n\n\n\n  Here's how you know\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Dot gov](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/icon-dot-gov.svg)\n\n\n\n **The .gov means it’s official.**\n Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a federal government site.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Https](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/icon-https.svg)\n\n\n\n **The site is secure.**\n The **https://** ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Español](/es)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n -  [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n -  [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n -  [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n * [/](/) *\n\n Menu\n\n\n\n\n\n  ![close](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/close.svg)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Main Menu Mega\n\n\n -   Show/hide Enforcement menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Enforcement](/enforcement)\n\n\n\nWe enforce federal competition and consumer protection laws that prevent anticompetitive, deceptive, and unfair business practices.\n\n\n\n[View Enforcement](/enforcement)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Search or browse\n the Legal Library\n\n\n\nFind legal resources and guidance to understand your business responsibilities and comply with the law.\n\n\n\n[Browse legal resources](/legal-library/browse)\n\n Search small Search\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n   -  [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n   -  [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n   -  [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n   -  [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n   -  [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n   -  [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n   -  [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n   -  [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n   -  [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n   -  [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n   -  [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n   -  [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n   -  [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n   -  [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n  - [Submit Merger/Antitrust Comment](/enforcement/submit-merger-antitrust-comment)\n  - [File adjudicative documents](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices/office-secretary/document-filing)\n  - [Find banned debt collectors](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/banned-debt-collectors)\n  - [View competition guidance](/business-guidance/competition-business-guidance)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Competition Matters Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCompetition Matters\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [How Loyalty Discounts Between Firms Harm Competition When There Are Network Effects: FTC v. Surescripts](/enforcement/competition-matters/2026/02/how-loyalty-discounts-between-firms-harm-competition-when-there-are-network-effects-ftc-v-surescripts)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMatthew Chesnes (DAD, BE Antitrust I) and Ted Rosenbaum (Acting BE Director)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFebruary 13, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View all Competition Matters Blog posts](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n -   Show/hide Policy menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Policy](/policy)\n\n\n\nWe work to advance government policies that protect consumers and promote competition.\n\n\n\n[View Policy](/policy)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Search or browse\n the Legal Library\n\n\n\nFind legal resources and guidance to understand your business responsibilities and comply with the law.\n\n\n\n[Browse legal resources](/legal-library/browse)\n\n Search small Search\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n   -  [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n   -  [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n   -  [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n   -  [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n   -  [Reports](/policy/reports)\n   -  [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n   -  [Studies](/policy/studies)\n   -  [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n   -  [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n   -  [International](/policy/international)\n   -  [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n\n   - [Find policy statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n   - [Submit a public comment](/policy/public-comments)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Technology Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTechnology Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [The FTC Is on the Front Lines of Tech Innovation & Regulation](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc/2025/01/ftc-front-lines-tech-innovation-regulation)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nStephanie T. Nguyen, Chief Technologist\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJanuary 17, 2025\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View all Technology Blog posts](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n -   Show/hide Advice and Guidance menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Advice and Guidance\n\n\n\nLearn more about your rights as a consumer and how to spot and avoid scams. Find the resources you need to understand how consumer protection law impacts your business.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n  - [Report fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov)\n  - [Report identity theft](http://www.identitytheft.gov)\n  - [Report Take It Down violations](https://takeitdown.ftc.gov)\n  - [Register for Do Not Call](https://www.donotcall.gov)\n  - [Sign up for consumer alerts](https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USFTCCONSUMER/subscriber/new?topic_id=%5BREDACTED%5D)\n  - [Get Business Blog updates](https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USFTCBUSINESS/subscriber/new?category_id=%5BREDACTED%5D)\n  - [Get your free credit report](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/free-credit-reports)\n  - [Find refund cases](/enforcement/refunds)\n  - [Order bulk publications](https://www.bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Consumer Advice](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n   - [Shopping and Donating](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/shopping-and-donating)\n   - [Credit, Loans, and Debt](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/credit-loans-and-debt)\n   - [Jobs and Making Money](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/jobs-and-making-money)\n   - [Unwanted Calls, Emails, and Texts](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/unwanted-calls-emails-and-texts)\n   - [Identity Theft and Online Security](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/identity-theft-and-online-security)\n   - [Scams](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/scams)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n\n  - [Advertising and Marketing](/business-guidance/advertising-marketing)\n  - [Credit and Finance](/business-guidance/credit-finance)\n  - [Privacy and Security](/business-guidance/privacy-security)\n  - [By Industry](/business-guidance/industry)\n  - [Search the RN database](/rn-database/search)\n  - [For Small Businesses](/business-guidance/small-businesses)\n  - [Browse Business Guidance Resources](/business-guidance/resources)\n  - [Business Blog](/business-guidance/blog)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Servicemembers:\n Your tool for financial readiness\n\n\n\n[Visit militaryconsumer.gov](https://militaryconsumer.gov)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Get consumer protection basics, plain and simple\n\n\n\n[Visit consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Learn how the FTC protects free enterprise and consumers\n\n\n\n[Visit Competition Counts](/enforcement-policy/competition-enforcement/competition-guidance/competition-counts)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Looking for competition guidance?\n\n\n\n[Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n -   Show/hide News and Events menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [News and Events](/news-events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Latest News\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Publishes Proposed 2027 Budget for Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-publishes-proposed-2027-budget-horseracing-integrity-safety-authority)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 10, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View News and Events](/news-events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Upcoming Event\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNov05\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [Nineteenth Annual Microeconomics Conference](/microeconomics)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Thursday, November 5, 2026 - Friday, November 6, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View more Events](/news-events/events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n   -  [News](/news-events/news)\n   -  [Events](/news-events/events)\n   -  [Features](/news-events/features)\n   -  [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n   -  [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n   -  [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n   -  [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n   -  [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n   -  [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Sign up for the latest news](/news-events/stay-connected)\n\n## Follow us on social media\n\n[* *](https://www.facebook.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://www.instagram.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://twitter.com/FTC)\n\n[* *](https://www.linkedin.com/company/163780/)\n\n[* *](https://www.youtube.com/ftcvideos)\n\n[* *](/news-events/stay-connected#RSS)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Feature\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Freedom 250 flag graphic](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/freedom-250-flag-graphic1.png?itok=JxacvLBI)\n\n\n\n\n\n### [Celebrating 250 Years of Independence](/news-events/features/celebrating-250-years-independence)\n\nThis year, the United States celebrates 250 years of independence. Learn more about our agency's history and commemoration events happening across the nation.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Latest Data Visualization\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Visualization of FTC Refunds to Consumers](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/refunds-tableau.jpg?itok=uqgwQ2yN)\n\n\n\n\n\n### [FTC Refunds to Consumers](https://public.tableau.com/app/profile/federal.trade.commission/viz/Refunds_15797958402020/RefundsbyCase)\n\n\n\nExplore refund statistics including where refunds were sent and the dollar amounts refunded with this visualization.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n -   Show/hide About the FTC menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [About the FTC](/about-ftc)\n\nThe FTC’s mission is to vigorously enforce the law to protect Americans from anticompetitive, unfair, and deceptive business practices, without unduly burdening legitimate business activity.\n\n[Learn more about the FTC]( /about-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n   -  [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n   -  [History](/about-ftc/history)\n   -  [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n   -  [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n   -  [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n   -  [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n   -  [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n   -  [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Featured\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Commissioner Ferguson hi res image](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/commissioner-andrew-n-ferguson-res.jpg?itok=GZrqrqZc)\n\n\n\n\n\n### Meet the Chairman\n\nAndrew N. Ferguson is Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission.\n\n[Chairman Andrew N. Ferguson](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff/andrew-n-ferguson)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n -  [Search](https://search.usa.gov/search?affiliate=%5BREDACTED%5D)  Show/hide Search menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Enter Search Term(s):   \n\nLooking for legal documents or records? Search the [Legal Library](/legal-library) instead.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n -  [English](/)\n -  [español](/es/ftc-en-espa%C3%B1ol?menut=1)\n\n\n -  [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n -  [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n -  [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n -  [Enforcement](/enforcement)  Show/hide Enforcement menu items\n   -  [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n   -  [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n   -  [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n   -  [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n   -  [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n   -  [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n   -  [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n   -  [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n   -  [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n   -  [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n   -  [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n   -  [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n   -  [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n   -  [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n -  [Policy](/policy)  Show/hide Policy menu items\n   -  [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n   -  [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n   -  [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n   -  [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n   -  [Reports](/policy/reports)\n   -  [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n   -  [Studies](/policy/studies)\n   -  [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n   -  [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n   -  [International](/policy/international)\n   -  [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n -  Advice and Guidance  Show/hide Advice and Guidance menu items\n   -  [Consumer Advice](http://consumer.ftc.gov/)\n   -  [Military Consumer](https://militaryconsumer.gov/)\n   -  [Consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov/)\n   -  [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n   -  [Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n   -  [Bulk Publications](https://bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n -  [News and Events](/news-events)  Show/hide News and Events menu items\n   -  [News](/news-events/news)\n   -  [Events](/news-events/events)\n   -  [Features](/news-events/features)\n   -  [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n   -  [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n   -  [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n   -  [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n   -  [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n   -  [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n -  [About the FTC](/about-ftc)  Show/hide About the FTC menu items\n   -  [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n   -  [History](/about-ftc/history)\n   -  [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n   -  [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n   -  [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n   -  [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n   -  [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n   -  [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Enter Search Term(s):   \n\nLooking for legal documents or records? Search the [Legal Library](/legal-library) instead.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Breadcrumb\n\n\n -  [Home](/)\n -  [News and Events](/news-events)\n -  [News](/news-events/news)\n -  [Press Releases](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor Release\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n# FTC, States Sue Amazon Over Secret Ad Surcharge Scheme\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFTC and 22 state attorneys general allege Amazon concealed unfair charges in its digital advertising auction pricing\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 31, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Facebook](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/img/social-icons/5296499_fb_facebook_facebook logo_icon.png)![Twitter](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/img/social-icons/x-twitter-black-logo.png)![LinkedIn](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/img/social-icons/317750_linkedin_icon.png)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTags:\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - [Consumer Protection](/consumer-protection)\n - [Bureau of Consumer Protection](/bureau-consumer-protection)\n - [Advertising and Marketing](/business-guidance/advertising-marketing)\n - [Online Advertising and Marketing](/business-guidance/advertising-marketing/online-advertising-marketing)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nToday, 22 states joined the Federal Trade Commission in filing suit against Amazon, alleging that the company engaged in deceptive and unfair practices that secretly inflated prices in its online search advertising auctions. The [complaint](/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/AmazonAds-Complaint.pdf)** **alleges that, for over seven years, Amazon has covertly and substantially increased the prices that more than one million brands and sellers were required to pay to advertise on its platform. As a result, the complaint alleges that Amazon’s scheme has likely extracted tens of billions of dollars from its unwitting advertising customers.\n\n“When one of the world’s largest online retailers engages in unfair and deceptive conduct, the impact can be staggering,” said Chairman Andrew N. Ferguson. “Amazon has millions of advertising customers who were misled into paying significantly higher prices. These higher costs were largely passed on to American consumers. The FTC under President Trump won’t allow this deception to continue.”\n\nThe FTC, along with the attorneys general of Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Vermont and Washington, allege Amazon has imposed undisclosed surcharges on its advertising customers, which include over 500,000 small- and medium-sized businesses that participated in auctions for advertising placements on Amazon.com and its mobile app.\n\nIn these auctions, prospective advertisers bid to place Sponsored Product ads, Sponsored Brands ads and Display Ads alongside the results that appear when a consumer searches for a product using a keyword on Amazon’s store. Placements are auctioned to the highest-ranked bidder for each keyword.\n\nAs described in the complaint, Amazon has represented to prospective advertisers for years that Amazon runs “second price” auctions where the winner of the auction would only pay “one cent more than the next highest bidder” for each successful bid for an advertising keyword. However, in practice, the complaint alleges that Amazon has charged its Sponsored Products advertisers their own winning bid close to 80% of the time and has effectively converted its nominally “second price” auction into a first price auction.\n\nAccording to the complaint, Amazon’s “second price” auctions have been described by Amazon, and understood by advertisers, to be run as generalized second-price, or GSP auctions, which have been the accepted industry standard for digital advertising placements.\n\nThe complaint states that Amazon has made these or similar representations on its website, in training videos and in other public-facing materials, as well as in presentations made to advertisers by its hundreds of sales personnel. \n\nThe type of auction matters to advertisers because it impacts how they bid. In a sealed first-price auction—the type of auction where winners pay the amount of their winning bid—bidders run the risk that they might overbid. So, in repetitive auctions for the same goods, they will often reduce their bid to determine what the minimum amount needed to win future auctions might be. This is called bid shading.\n\nIn second-price auctions, bidders are more likely to bid higher, closer to their true value for the product, because they will only be liable to pay the least bid amount needed to win under the auction’s rules. \n\nAs alleged in the complaint, Amazon told advertisers it ran a GSP, but for years its auction pricing had “a surcharge hidden in it,” in the words of one internal Amazon document. The complaint alleges that, beginning in 2019, Amazon changed its auction rules without notice by adding an undisclosed surcharge that Amazon referred to internally as a “soft reserve price.” This resulted in advertisers paying substantially more than the price determined by the GSP auction. \n\nAccording to the complaint, Amazon made this surreptitious change to its auction because it was unhappy about how much revenue its advertising auctions were generating. The complaint quotes from the executive in charge of Amazon Ads who explained internally that the price paid by advertisers “isn’t set by an actual bidder,” but is instead a “proxy 2nd price that we calculate.” In another document quoted in the complaint, Amazon acknowledged it uses an “invented auction participant” to increase prices. The complaint alleges that Amazon’s “invented auction participant” and its hidden “proxy 2nd price” bids are essentially shill bids. The complaint also quotes from another Amazon employee, who stated that Amazon’s surcharges enable it to obtain prices “beyond what [can] be achieved through advertiser competition.” \n\nThe complaint alleges that Amazon’s unlawful scheme has generated tens of billions of dollars of revenue for the company by, for example, substantially increasing the prices charged to advertisers on ordinary shopping days and applying far greater increases to prices on high-volume shopping days like Prime Day and Black Friday. The complaint quotes notes from a 2024 discussion between senior executives, including the head of Amazon Ads and Amazon’s Chief Digital Economist, where it was acknowledged that Amazon’s “clever non-transparent way to charge first price” has been an “incredibly effective way to drive revenue.”\n\nAs described in the complaint, because Amazon understood that revealing the surcharges—and the fact that the auction was no longer a genuine second-price auction—would lead to significant backlash from its advertising customers, Amazon spent years concealing the changes from the public. For example, leading up to the high-volume days, Amazon carefully ramps up surcharges to disguise the fact that it is inflating prices. Amazon has repeatedly deployed such underhanded tactics to increase its surcharges to meet revenue targets. \n\nAmazon knows that it benefits from its advertisers’ false belief that the prices they pay are set by fair, competitive second-price auctions, according to the complaint. The complaint quotes from Amazon employees acknowledging that advertisers “are operating under the assumption that Amazon uses a GSP auction,” that advertisers “believe Amazon will not simply charge their first price,” and that as a result “many advertisers bid far higher than what they are willing to pay … because they assume [the auction is] a GSP.”\n\nAccording to the complaint, the truth is that advertisers have not been competing in fair GSP auctions. The complaint alleges that, over the past several years, Amazon’s surcharges have resulted in advertisers paying their own bid amount an increasingly high amount of the time. For Sponsored Products ads, the complaint alleges that the percentage of the time advertisers paid the amount of their bid increased from between 30% and 40% in 2021, to 70% in 2022, and to approximately 80% in 2024 as a result of the surcharges. But Amazon has actively concealed this fact from advertisers to prevent them from lowering their bids, according to the complaint.\n\nThe complaint alleges that Amazon and its senior executives took active steps to conceal its surcharge pricing system from its advertisers, including giving false and misleading answers to advertisers who asked the company directly if it had changed its auction format, so that they would continue to be deceived about how the prices they pay are set. The complaint quotes from Amazon’s internal documents, stating that revealing the surcharges would result in “irrevocable damage to advertiser trust” and a “downward spiral” of advertisers lowering their bids, leading to dramatic losses of revenue for Amazon.\n\nAccording to the complaint, Amazon has continually tested and monitored its customers to increase its prices without getting caught, and, to date, this scheme has been successful. The complaint quotes from one Amazon employee who said that the company’s hidden surcharges are “good for Amazon” because “advertisers must pay more for the same advertising,” and “the benefit to Amazon comes at the cost of advertisers.” \n\nThe Commission vote authorizing staff to file the complaint was 2-0. It was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington. The attorneys on this matter include Jonathan Platt, Darren Lubetzky, Adam Hersh, Vikram Jagadish, Jason Kornmehl and Ishan Shivakumar from the FTC’s Northeast Regional office.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Federal Trade Commission works to promote competition and [protect and educate consumers](https://www.ftc.gov/about-ftc/bureaus-offices/bureau-consumer-protection). The FTC will never demand money, make threats, tell you to transfer money, or promise you a prize. Learn more about consumer topics at [consumer.ftc.gov](https://consumer.ftc.gov/), or report fraud, scams, and bad business practices at [ReportFraud.ftc.gov](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/). Follow the [FTC on social media](https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/stay-connected/social-media), read [consumer alerts](https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts) and the [business blog](https://www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/blog), and [sign up to get the latest FTC news and alerts](/news-events/stay-connected).\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Contact Information\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Media Contact\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Office of Public Affairs](mailto:opa@ftc.gov)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOffice of Public Affairs\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n202-326-2180\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Related Cases\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Amazon](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/amazon)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Topics\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Protecting Consumers](/news-events/topics/truth-advertising/protecting-consumers)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n [**Return to top](#top)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n * [/](/) *\n\n Menu\n\n\n\n## Secondary Menu\n\n\n -  [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n -  [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n -  [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Main navigation\n\n\n -  [Enforcement](/enforcement)\n   -  [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n   -  [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n   -  [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n   -  [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n   -  [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n   -  [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n   -  [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n   -  [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n   -  [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n   -  [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n   -  [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n   -  [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n   -  [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n   -  [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n -  [Policy](/policy)\n   -  [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n   -  [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n   -  [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n   -  [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n   -  [Reports](/policy/reports)\n   -  [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n   -  [Studies](/policy/studies)\n   -  [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n   -  [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n   -  [International](/policy/international)\n   -  [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n -  Advice and Guidance\n   -  [Consumer Advice](http://consumer.ftc.gov/)\n   -  [Military Consumer](https://militaryconsumer.gov/)\n   -  [Consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov/)\n   -  [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n   -  [Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n   -  [Bulk Publications](https://bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n -  [News and Events](/news-events)\n   -  [News](/news-events/news)\n   -  [Events](/news-events/events)\n   -  [Features](/news-events/features)\n   -  [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n   -  [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n   -  [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n   -  [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n   -  [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n   -  [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n -  [About the FTC](/about-ftc)\n   -  [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n   -  [History](/about-ftc/history)\n   -  [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n   -  [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n   -  [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n   -  [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n   -  [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n   -  [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Footer\n\n\n -  [Privacy Policy](/policy-notices/privacy-policy)\n -  [Policy and Notices](/policy-notices)\n -  [Accessibility](/policy-notices/accessibility)\n -  [FOIA](/foia)\n -  [No FEAR Act](/policy-notices/no-fear-act)\n -  [Office of Inspector General](/oig)\n -  [USA.gov](https://www.usa.gov/)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[* *](https://www.facebook.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://www.instagram.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://twitter.com/FTC)\n\n[* *](https://www.linkedin.com/company/163780/)\n\n[* *](https://www.youtube.com/ftcvideos)\n\n[* *](/news-events/stay-connected/ftc-rss-feeds)",
    "content_length": 30226,
    "content_type": "text/html",
    "description": "Today, 22 states joined the Federal Trade Commission in filing suit against Amazon, alleging that the company engaged in deceptive and unfair practices that secretly inflated prices in its online s",
    "status_code": 200,
    "success": true,
    "title": "FTC, States Sue Amazon Over Secret Ad Surcharge Scheme | Federal Trade Commission",
    "url": "https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-states-sue-amazon-over-secret-ad-surcharge-scheme"
  },
  "error": "",
  "elapsed": 0.668438365
}

send_message completeddispatch toolu_01GXD6YjyuPZa7jq5wgHXRrB

Input

{ "final": true, "in_response_to": "3c7de850", "message": "From the FTC press release page, Aug 28 to Sep 11, 2026:\n\n| Date | Target | Issue | Remedy | Next step |\n|---|---|---|---|---|\n| Sep 8 | [Humboldt Merchant Services](https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-takes-action-against-payment-processor-humboldt-merchant-services-knowingly-facilitating-payment) | Processed payments for 1,000+ shell merchants fronting unauthorized-billing scams; chargebacks ~10x excessive; moved accounts to a lower-risk BIN | $12M redress, permanent ban on processing for high-fraud-risk merchant categories, bans credit card laundering and load balancing | Proposed stipulated order filed in E.D. Mich.; binding once the judge signs. Commission vote 2-0 |\n| Sep 4 | [Nuvei Corporation and subsidiaries](https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/payment-processor-nuvei-must-implement-robust-merchant-screening-practices-pay-485-million-settle) | Processed $30M+ for the Reimage tech support scam 2017-2023, plus business-opportunity and government-impersonation merchants; FTC Act unfairness and Telemarketing Sales Rule | $4.85M redress, ban on serving telemarketed/pop-up tech support sellers, mandatory merchant screening and enhanced review of high-chargeback clients | Complaint and stipulated order filed in D. Ariz.; court decides. Ferguson and Meador issued a joint statement |\n| Aug 31 | [Amazon](https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-states-sue-amazon-over-secret-ad-surcharge-scheme) | Told advertisers its ad auctions were second-price while adding a hidden \"soft reserve\" surcharge from 2019; advertisers paid their own bid ~80% of the time by 2024; alleged tens of billions extracted | Litigated, no settlement yet | Suit filed in W.D. Wash. with 22 state AGs; case proceeds in court |\n\nPolicy and rule items in the same window: the FTC [extended the comment period](https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-extends-public-comment-proposed-policy-statement-regarding-personalized-pricing) on its proposed personalized pricing enforcement policy statement by seven days (Sep 3); it [rescinded](https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-withdraws-obsolete-policy-statement) the 2021 Policy Statement on Breaches by Health Apps and Other Connected Devices (Sep 9); and it [published HISA's proposed 2027 budget](https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-publishes-proposed-2027-budget-horseracing-integrity-safety-authority) for comment (Sep 10). Nothing else in the window was a new enforcement action." }

Result

Delivered (confirmed) as 3 messages. Your draft was polished into texting register, so the wording differs from what you wrote; this is exactly what the user sees: 1) Three enforcement actions in the past 14 days, plus policy moves. 2) ### FTC enforcement actions, Aug 28–Sep 11 · Table | Date | Target | Issue | Remedy | Next step | |---|---|---|---|---| | Sep 8 | https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-takes-action-against-payment-processor-humboldt-merchant-services-knowingly-facilitating-payment | Processed payments for 1,000+ shell merchants fronting unauthorized-billing scams; chargebacks ~10x excessive; moved accounts to a lower-risk BIN | $12M redress, permanent ban on processing for high-fraud-risk merchant categories, bans credit card laundering and load balancing | Proposed stipulated order filed in E.D. Mich.; binding once the judge signs. Commission vote 2-0 | | Sep 4 | https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/payment-processor-nuvei-must-implement-robust-merchant-screening-practices-pay-485-million-settle | Processed $30M+ for the Reimage tech support scam 2017-2023, plus business-opportunity and government-impersonation merchants; FTC Act unfairness and Telemarketing Sales Rule | $4.85M redress, ban on serving telemarketed/pop-up tech support sellers, mandatory merchant screening and enhanced review of high-chargeback clients | Complaint and stipulated order filed in D. Ariz.; court decides. Ferguson and Meador issued a joint statement | | Aug 31 | https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-states-sue-amazon-over-secret-ad-surcharge-scheme | Told advertisers its ad auctions were second-price while adding a hidden "soft reserve" surcharge from 2019; advertisers paid their own bid ~80% of the time by 2024; alleged tens of billions extracted | Litigated, no settlement yet | Suit filed in W.D. Wash. with 22 state AGs; case proceeds in court | 3) The FTC also extended comment period on personalized pricing enforcement policy, rescinded a 2021 health-app breach statement, and published HISA's proposed 2027 budget for comment. These are your words now, and this is the whole reply: the delivery layer chose its density and shape by design. Never dispute, re-explain, or apologize for the phrasing, and never send a supplement to restore detail it left out. Only a final send settles its request. Never chase wording with another send. If a fact in it is wrong and would change what the user does, correct it when their next message arrives. Nothing else is open: no request awaits a reply and no work is running. A response with no tool call ends the run. answers: 3c7de850-176e-43fa-90ae-e0a29d57ec2c

Sub-agent trace (toolu_01GXD6YjyuPZa7jq5wgHXRrB, 2 events)

tools_started send_message t=118229.449

Inner payload

{
  "tool_name": "send_message",
  "tool_input": {
    "final": true,
    "in_response_to": "3c7de850",
    "message": "From the FTC press release page, Aug 28 to Sep 11, 2026:\n\n| Date | Target | Issue | Remedy | Next step |\n|---|---|---|---|---|\n| Sep 8 | [Humboldt Merchant Services](https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-takes-action-against-payment-processor-humboldt-merchant-services-knowingly-facilitating-payment) | Processed payments for 1,000+ shell merchants fronting unauthorized-billing scams; chargebacks ~10x excessive; moved accounts to a lower-risk BIN | $12M redress, permanent ban on processing for high-fraud-risk merchant categories, bans credit card laundering and load balancing | Proposed stipulated order filed in E.D. Mich.; binding once the judge signs. Commission vote 2-0 |\n| Sep 4 | [Nuvei Corporation and subsidiaries](https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/payment-processor-nuvei-must-implement-robust-merchant-screening-practices-pay-485-million-settle) | Processed $30M+ for the Reimage tech support scam 2017-2023, plus business-opportunity and government-impersonation merchants; FTC Act unfairness and Telemarketing Sales Rule | $4.85M redress, ban on serving telemarketed/pop-up tech support sellers, mandatory merchant screening and enhanced review of high-chargeback clients | Complaint and stipulated order filed in D. Ariz.; court decides. Ferguson and Meador issued a joint statement |\n| Aug 31 | [Amazon](https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-states-sue-amazon-over-secret-ad-surcharge-scheme) | Told advertisers its ad auctions were second-price while adding a hidden \"soft reserve\" surcharge from 2019; advertisers paid their own bid ~80% of the time by 2024; alleged tens of billions extracted | Litigated, no settlement yet | Suit filed in W.D. Wash. with 22 state AGs; case proceeds in court |\n\nPolicy and rule items in the same window: the FTC [extended the comment period](https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-extends-public-comment-proposed-policy-statement-regarding-personalized-pricing) on its proposed personalized pricing enforcement policy statement by seven days (Sep 3); it [rescinded](https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-withdraws-obsolete-policy-statement) the 2021 Policy Statement on Breaches by Health Apps and Other Connected Devices (Sep 9); and it [published HISA's proposed 2027 budget](https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-publishes-proposed-2027-budget-horseracing-integrity-safety-authority) for comment (Sep 10). Nothing else in the window was a new enforcement action."
  },
  "dispatch_id": "toolu_01GXD6YjyuPZa7jq5wgHXRrB",
  "parent_dispatch_id": "",
  "handle": "",
  "panel_kind": ""
}

tools_completed send_message t=118229.450

Inner payload

{
  "tool_name": "send_message",
  "dispatch_id": "toolu_01GXD6YjyuPZa7jq5wgHXRrB",
  "status": "completed",
  "result": "Delivered (confirmed) as 3 messages. Your draft was polished into texting register, so the wording differs from what you wrote; this is exactly what the user sees:\n1) Three enforcement actions in the past 14 days, plus policy moves.\n2) ### FTC enforcement actions, Aug 28–Sep 11 · Table\n\n| Date | Target | Issue | Remedy | Next step |\n|---|---|---|---|---|\n| Sep 8 | https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-takes-action-against-payment-processor-humboldt-merchant-services-knowingly-facilitating-payment | Processed payments for 1,000+ shell merchants fronting unauthorized-billing scams; chargebacks ~10x excessive; moved accounts to a lower-risk BIN | $12M redress, permanent ban on processing for high-fraud-risk merchant categories, bans credit card laundering and load balancing | Proposed stipulated order filed in E.D. Mich.; binding once the judge signs. Commission vote 2-0 |\n| Sep 4 | https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/payment-processor-nuvei-must-implement-robust-merchant-screening-practices-pay-485-million-settle | Processed $30M+ for the Reimage tech support scam 2017-2023, plus business-opportunity and government-impersonation merchants; FTC Act unfairness and Telemarketing Sales Rule | $4.85M redress, ban on serving telemarketed/pop-up tech support sellers, mandatory merchant screening and enhanced review of high-chargeback clients | Complaint and stipulated order filed in D. Ariz.; court decides. Ferguson and Meador issued a joint statement |\n| Aug 31 | https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-states-sue-amazon-over-secret-ad-surcharge-scheme | Told advertisers its ad auctions were second-price while adding a hidden \"soft reserve\" surcharge from 2019; advertisers paid their own bid ~80% of the time by 2024; alleged tens of billions extracted | Litigated, no settlement yet | Suit filed in W.D. Wash. with 22 state AGs; case proceeds in court |\n3) The FTC also extended comment period on personalized pricing enforcement policy, rescinded a 2021 health-app breach statement, and published HISA's proposed 2027 budget for comment.\nThese are your words now, and this is the whole reply: the delivery layer chose its density and shape by design. Never dispute, re-explain, or apologize for the phrasing, and never send a supplement to restore detail it left out. Only a final send settles its request. Never chase wording with another send. If a fact in it is wrong and would change what the user does, correct it when their next message arrives.\n\nNothing else is open: no request awaits a reply and no work is running. A response with no tool call ends the run.\nanswers: 3c7de850-176e-43fa-90ae-e0a29d57ec2c",
  "error": "",
  "elapsed": 17.605580389
}

Normalized evidence

Date	Target	Issue	Remedy	Next step
Sep 8	https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-takes-action-against-payment-processor-humboldt-merchant-services-knowingly-facilitating-payment	Processed payments for 1,000+ shell merchants fronting unauthorized-billing scams; chargebacks ~10x excessive; moved accounts to a lower-risk BIN	$12M redress, permanent ban on processing for high-fraud-risk merchant categories, bans credit card laundering and load balancing	Proposed stipulated order filed in E.D. Mich.; binding once the judge signs. Commission vote 2-0
Sep 4	https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/payment-processor-nuvei-must-implement-robust-merchant-screening-practices-pay-485-million-settle	Processed $30M+ for the Reimage tech support scam 2017-2023, plus business-opportunity and government-impersonation merchants; FTC Act unfairness and Telemarketing Sales Rule	$4.85M redress, ban on serving telemarketed/pop-up tech support sellers, mandatory merchant screening and enhanced review of high-chargeback clients	Complaint and stipulated order filed in D. Ariz.; court decides. Ferguson and Meador issued a joint statement
Aug 31	https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-states-sue-amazon-over-secret-ad-surcharge-scheme	Told advertisers its ad auctions were second-price while adding a hidden "soft reserve" surcharge from 2019; advertisers paid their own bid ~80% of the time by 2024; alleged tens of billions extracted	Litigated, no settlement yet	Suit filed in W.D. Wash. with 22 state AGs; case proceeds in court

E0004 · turn 1 · tool result · web_fetch · dispatch toolu_01WdmxzWEB1W9tFvgso4WJxX

{"dispatch_id": "toolu_01WdmxzWEB1W9tFvgso4WJxX", "elapsed": 0.770600861, "error": "", "result": {"content": "Press Releases | Federal Trade Commission [Skip to main content](#main-content)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![U.S. flag](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/us_flag_small.png)\n\n\n\n\n\nAn official website of the United States government\n\n\n\nHere’s how you know\n\n\n\n Here's how you know\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Dot gov](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/icon-dot-gov.svg)\n\n\n\n **The .gov means it’s official.**\n Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a federal government site.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Https](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/icon-https.svg)\n\n\n\n **The site is secure.**\n The **https://** ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Español](/es)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n - [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n * [/](/) *\n\n Menu\n\n\n\n\n\n ![close](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/close.svg)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Main Menu Mega\n\n\n - Show/hide Enforcement menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Enforcement](/enforcement)\n\n\n\nWe enforce federal competition and consumer protection laws that prevent anticompetitive, deceptive, and unfair business practices.\n\n\n\n[View Enforcement](/enforcement)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Search or browse\n the Legal Library\n\n\n\nFind legal resources and guidance to understand your business responsibilities and comply with the law.\n\n\n\n[Browse legal resources](/legal-library/browse)\n\n Search small Search\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n - [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n - [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n - [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n - [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n - [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n - [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n - [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n - [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n - [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n - [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n - [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n - [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n - [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n - [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n - [Submit Merger/Antitrust Comment](/enforcement/submit-merger-antitrust-comment)\n - [File adjudicative documents](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices/office-secretary/document-filing)\n - [Find banned debt collectors](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/banned-debt-collectors)\n - [View competition guidance](/business-guidance/competition-business-guidance)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Competition Matters Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCompetition Matters\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [How Loyalty Discounts Between Firms Harm Competition When There Are Network Effects: FTC v. Surescripts](/enforcement/competition-matters/2026/02/how-loyalty-discounts-between-firms-harm-competition-when-there-are-network-effects-ftc-v-surescripts)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMatthew Chesnes (DAD, BE Antitrust I) and Ted Rosenbaum (Acting BE Director)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFebruary 13, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View all Competition Matters Blog posts](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - Show/hide Policy menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Policy](/policy)\n\n\n\nWe work to advance government policies that protect consumers and promote competition.\n\n\n\n[View Policy](/policy)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Search or browse\n the Legal Library\n\n\n\nFind legal resources and guidance to understand your business responsibilities and comply with the law.\n\n\n\n[Browse legal resources](/legal-library/browse)\n\n Search small Search\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n - [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n - [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n - [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n - [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n - [Reports](/policy/reports)\n - [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Studies](/policy/studies)\n - [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n - [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n - [International](/policy/international)\n - [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n\n - [Find policy statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n - [Submit a public comment](/policy/public-comments)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Technology Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTechnology Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [The FTC Is on the Front Lines of Tech Innovation & Regulation](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc/2025/01/ftc-front-lines-tech-innovation-regulation)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nStephanie T. Nguyen, Chief Technologist\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJanuary 17, 2025\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View all Technology Blog posts](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - Show/hide Advice and Guidance menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Advice and Guidance\n\n\n\nLearn more about your rights as a consumer and how to spot and avoid scams. Find the resources you need to understand how consumer protection law impacts your business.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n - [Report fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov)\n - [Report identity theft](http://www.identitytheft.gov)\n - [Report Take It Down violations](https://takeitdown.ftc.gov)\n - [Register for Do Not Call](https://www.donotcall.gov)\n - [Sign up for consumer alerts](https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USFTCCONSUMER/subscriber/new?topic_id=%5BREDACTED%5D)\n - [Get Business Blog updates](https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USFTCBUSINESS/subscriber/new?category_id=%5BREDACTED%5D)\n - [Get your free credit report](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/free-credit-reports)\n - [Find refund cases](/enforcement/refunds)\n - [Order bulk publications](https://www.bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Consumer Advice](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n - [Shopping and Donating](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/shopping-and-donating)\n - [Credit, Loans, and Debt](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/credit-loans-and-debt)\n - [Jobs and Making Money](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/jobs-and-making-money)\n - [Unwanted Calls, Emails, and Texts](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/unwanted-calls-emails-and-texts)\n - [Identity Theft and Online Security](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/identity-theft-and-online-security)\n - [Scams](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/scams)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n\n - [Advertising and Marketing](/business-guidance/advertising-marketing)\n - [Credit and Finance](/business-guidance/credit-finance)\n - [Privacy and Security](/business-guidance/privacy-security)\n - [By Industry](/business-guidance/industry)\n - [Search the RN database](/rn-database/search)\n - [For Small Businesses](/business-guidance/small-businesses)\n - [Browse Business Guidance Resources](/business-guidance/resources)\n - [Business Blog](/business-guidance/blog)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Servicemembers:\n Your tool for financial readiness\n\n\n\n[Visit militaryconsumer.gov](https://militaryconsumer.gov)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Get consumer protection basics, plain and simple\n\n\n\n[Visit consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Learn how the FTC protects free enterprise and consumers\n\n\n\n[Visit Competition Counts](/enforcement-policy/competition-enforcement/competition-guidance/competition-counts)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Looking for competition guidance?\n\n\n\n[Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - Show/hide News and Events menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [News and Events](/news-events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Latest News\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Publishes Proposed 2027 Budget for Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-publishes-proposed-2027-budget-horseracing-integrity-safety-authority)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 10, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View News and Events](/news-events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Upcoming Event\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNov05\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [Nineteenth Annual Microeconomics Conference](/microeconomics)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Thursday, November 5, 2026 - Friday, November 6, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View more Events](/news-events/events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n - [News](/news-events/news)\n - [Events](/news-events/events)\n - [Features](/news-events/features)\n - [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n - [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n - [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n - [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n - [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n - [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Sign up for the latest news](/news-events/stay-connected)\n\n## Follow us on social media\n\n[* *](https://www.facebook.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://www.instagram.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://twitter.com/FTC)\n\n[* *](https://www.linkedin.com/company/163780/)\n\n[* *](https://www.youtube.com/ftcvideos)\n\n[* *](/news-events/stay-connected#RSS)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Feature\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Freedom 250 flag graphic](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/freedom-250-flag-graphic1.png?itok=JxacvLBI)\n\n\n\n\n\n### [Celebrating 250 Years of Independence](/news-events/features/celebrating-250-years-independence)\n\nThis year, the United States celebrates 250 years of independence. Learn more about our agency's history and commemoration events happening across the nation.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Latest Data Visualization\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Visualization of FTC Refunds to Consumers](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/refunds-tableau.jpg?itok=uqgwQ2yN)\n\n\n\n\n\n### [FTC Refunds to Consumers](https://public.tableau.com/app/profile/federal.trade.commission/viz/Refunds_15797958402020/RefundsbyCase)\n\n\n\nExplore refund statistics including where refunds were sent and the dollar amounts refunded with this visualization.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - Show/hide About the FTC menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [About the FTC](/about-ftc)\n\nThe FTC’s mission is to vigorously enforce the law to protect Americans from anticompetitive, unfair, and deceptive business practices, without unduly burdening legitimate business activity.\n\n[Learn more about the FTC]( /about-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n - [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n - [History](/about-ftc/history)\n - [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n - [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n - [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n - [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n - [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n - [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Featured\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Commissioner Ferguson hi res image](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/commissioner-andrew-n-ferguson-res.jpg?itok=GZrqrqZc)\n\n\n\n\n\n### Meet the Chairman\n\nAndrew N. Ferguson is Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission.\n\n[Chairman Andrew N. Ferguson](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff/andrew-n-ferguson)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - [Search](https://search.usa.gov/search?affiliate=%5BREDACTED%5D) Show/hide Search menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Enter Search Term(s): \n\nLooking for legal documents or records? Search the [Legal Library](/legal-library) instead.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - [English](/)\n - [español](/es/ftc-en-espa%C3%B1ol?menut=1)\n\n\n - [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n - [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n - [Enforcement](/enforcement) Show/hide Enforcement menu items\n - [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n - [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n - [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n - [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n - [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n - [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n - [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n - [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n - [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n - [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n - [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n - [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n - [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n - [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n - [Policy](/policy) Show/hide Policy menu items\n - [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n - [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n - [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n - [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n - [Reports](/policy/reports)\n - [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Studies](/policy/studies)\n - [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n - [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n - [International](/policy/international)\n - [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n - Advice and Guidance Show/hide Advice and Guidance menu items\n - [Consumer Advice](http://consumer.ftc.gov/)\n - [Military Consumer](https://militaryconsumer.gov/)\n - [Consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov/)\n - [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n - [Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n - [Bulk Publications](https://bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n - [News and Events](/news-events) Show/hide News and Events menu items\n - [News](/news-events/news)\n - [Events](/news-events/events)\n - [Features](/news-events/features)\n - [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n - [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n - [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n - [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n - [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n - [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n - [About the FTC](/about-ftc) Show/hide About the FTC menu items\n - [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n - [History](/about-ftc/history)\n - [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n - [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n - [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n - [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n - [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n - [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Enter Search Term(s): \n\nLooking for legal documents or records? Search the [Legal Library](/legal-library) instead.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n# Press Releases\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Breadcrumb\n\n\n - [Home](/)\n - [News and Events](/news-events)\n - [News](/news-events/news)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n [Vea esta página en español](/es/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## News Menu\n\n\n\n\n\n## [News](/news-events/news)\n\n\n - [Press Releases](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n - [Commission Actions](/news-events/news/commission-actions)\n - [Speeches](/news-events/news/speeches)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Refine your results\n\n\n\n\n\n#### Refine your results\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Press Releases\n\n\n\n\n\n Items per page\n\n 20 50 100\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Search\n\n\n\n Keyword\n\n\n\n Filters\n\n\n - Mission\n\n\n\n\n -\n\nCompetition\n\n\n -\n\nConsumer Protection\n\n\n -\n\nFTC Operations\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSince Apr. 1, 2008.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Date\n\n\n\n Min\n\n\n\n Max\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Competition Topics\n\n - Any - Merger -Horizontal -Vertical Nonmerger -Exclusionary Conduct -Exclusive Dealing -Horizontal Restraints --Price Fixing --Group Boycott --Market Allocation --Bid Rigging --Invitation to Collude -Noncompete -Single Firm Conduct -Unfair Methods of Competition Section 5\n\n\n\n Since Jan. 1, 2013.\n\n\n\n\n\n Consumer Protection Topics\n\n - Any - Advertising and Marketing -Advertising and Marketing Basics -Children -Endorsements, Influencers, and Reviews -Environmental Marketing -Health Claims -Made in USA -Online Advertising and Marketing -Telemarketing Credit and Finance -Credit and Loans -Debt -Debt Collection -FinTech -Mortgages -Payments and Billing Privacy and Security -Children's Privacy -Health Privacy -Consumer Privacy -Credit Reporting -Data Security -Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act -Red Flags Rule -Data Privacy Framework -Privacy Shield -U.S.-EU Safe Harbor Framework -Tech Self-Regulation Small Business\n\n\n\n Since Jan. 1, 2013.\n\n\n\n\n\n Industry\n\n - Any - Accounting Artificial Intelligence Chemicals & Industrial Gases Dentistry Entertainment Gaming Gasoline Policy Alcohol Cable TV Consumer Goods (Non Food & Beverage) Drug Stores and Pharmacies Grocery/Supermarkets Natural Gas Appliances Hardware Health Professional Services Industrial Goods Merchandise & Clothing Petroleum Automobiles Hospitals and Clinics Mobile Pharmaceuticals Utilities Clothing and Textiles Medical Equipment and Devices Patents & Intellectual Property Construction Optometry Software and Databases Defense Over-the-Counter Drugs and Devices Energy Prescription Drugs Entertainment Environment Finance Food and Beverages Franchises, Business Opportunities, and Investments Funerals Government Health Care Horseracing Human Resources Jewelry Manufacturing Professional Services (Non-Health Care) Real Estate and Mortgages Retail Technology Telecommunications Tobacco Transportation Veterinarians\n\n\n\n Since Jan. 1, 2013.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Topics\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOur [Topics](/news-events/topics) library provides one-stop collections of materials on numerous issues in which the FTC has been actively engaged. These pages are especially useful for members of the media.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDisplaying 1 - 20 of 11085\n\n Show: 2050100\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Publishes Proposed 2027 Budget for Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-publishes-proposed-2027-budget-horseracing-integrity-safety-authority)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 10, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission is seeking comment on the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority’s proposed 2027 budget as submitted to the Commission and published in the Federal Register. The FTC’s...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Withdraws Obsolete Policy Statement](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-withdraws-obsolete-policy-statement)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 9, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission rescinded the 2021 Policy Statement on Breaches by Health Apps and Other Connected Devices. This controversial policy statement purported to apply the FTC’s Health Breach...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Takes Action Against Payment Processor Humboldt Merchant Services for Knowingly Facilitating Payment Processing for Sham Merchants](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-takes-action-against-payment-processor-humboldt-merchant-services-knowingly-facilitating-payment)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 8, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Payment processing company Humboldt Merchant Services will pay $12 million and be permanently banned from processing payments for merchants with a heightened risk of potential fraud to settle...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [Payment Processor Nuvei Must Implement Robust Merchant Screening Practices and Pay $4.85 Million to Settle FTC Charges that the Firm Facilitated Merchant Fraud](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/payment-processor-nuvei-must-implement-robust-merchant-screening-practices-pay-485-million-settle)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 4, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Global payment processor Nuvei will pay $4.85 million to settle the Federal Trade Commission’s charges that the firm opened and maintained payment processing accounts for merchants that it knew or...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Extends Public Comment on Proposed Policy Statement Regarding Personalized Pricing](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-extends-public-comment-proposed-policy-statement-regarding-personalized-pricing)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 3, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission extended by seven days the public comment period on the proposed enforcement policy statement regarding personalized pricing. The new deadline to submit comments is Sept...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [Statement Regarding Fairfield Medical Center’s Sale to Adena Health](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/statement-regarding-fairfield-medical-centers-sale-adena-health)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 2, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n On Sept. 1, 2026, Adena Health announced its acquisition of Fairfield Medical Center (FMC), a hospital system in southeastern Ohio. The announcement follows a Federal Trade Commission investigation of...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC, States Sue Amazon Over Secret Ad Surcharge Scheme](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-states-sue-amazon-over-secret-ad-surcharge-scheme)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 31, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Today, 22 states joined the Federal Trade Commission in filing suit against Amazon, alleging that the company engaged in deceptive and unfair practices that secretly inflated prices in its online...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Finalizes Orders with Cox Media Group, Two Other Firms Settling Charges They Deceived Customers About “Active Listening” AI-Powered Marketing Service](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-finalizes-orders-cox-media-group-two-other-firms-settling-charges-they-deceived-customers-about)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 27, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission finalized orders requiring Cox Media Group (CMG) and two other firms to pay a total of $930,000 to settle allegations they deceived customers by falsely claiming to offer...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Announces 2027 Telemarketer Fees to Access the National Do Not Call Registry](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-announces-2027-telemarketer-fees-access-national-do-not-call-registry)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 26, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission today announced new fees for telemarketers to access phone numbers on the National Do Not Call (DNC) Registry for Fiscal Year 2027 which begins on October 1, 2026. All...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Approves Final Consent Order in Ascension Health-AmSurg Deal](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-approves-final-consent-order-ascension-health-amsurg-deal)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 25, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission finalized a consent order involving Ascension Health Alliance’s (Ascension) proposed $3.9 billion acquisition of AmSurg LLC. The FTC’s final consent order requires...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Secures Order Resolving Antitrust Concerns with Zillow-Redfin Agreement](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-secures-order-resolving-antitrust-concerns-zillow-redfin-agreement)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 24, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission, joined by five states, today notified the court that it will file a stipulated order that resolves its litigation against Zillow and Redfin and restores competition in...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Files Amicus Brief to Protect Competition in Biologic Drug Markets](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-files-amicus-brief-protect-competition-biologic-drug-markets)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 21, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission filed an amicus brief in an antitrust case alleging that drug manufacturer Amgen illegally acquired exclusive rights to patent applications that it shaped to cover Enbrel...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC, Connecticut Secure $4 Million Settlement with Manchester City Nissan Over Deceptive Fees Allegations](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-connecticut-secure-4-million-settlement-manchester-city-nissan-over-deceptive-fees-allegations)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 19, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission and state of Connecticut today secured a $4 million settlement with a Manchester, Conn., auto dealer and its owners and managers resolving allegations the business was...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Seeks Comment on Enforcement Policy Statement Regarding Personalized Pricing](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-seeks-comment-enforcement-policy-statement-regarding-personalized-pricing)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 19, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n This release was updated on August 31, 2026 at 2:40 PM to correct an earlier error. The Federal Trade Commission today announced it is seeking public comment on an enforcement policy statement...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [Statement on FTC Win Blocking Loctite, Liquid Nails Construction Adhesive Merger](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/statement-ftc-win-blocking-loctite-liquid-nails-construction-adhesive-merger)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 17, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission secured an important victory in the fight to lower the cost of housing construction materials for Americans by preventing German multinational Henkel AG & Co. KGaA (Henkel...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [Bill Payment Firm Doxo to Pay $2.1 Million to Settle FTC Allegations It Deceived Consumers and Charged Them Add-On Fees](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/bill-payment-firm-doxo-pay-21-million-settle-ftc-allegations-it-deceived-consumers-charged-them-add)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 17, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Online bill payment firm Doxo will pay $2.1 million to settle Federal Trade Commission allegations that the company and two of its co-founders used misleading search ads to impersonate consumers’...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Sends More than $23.8 Million to Drivers and Diners Harmed by Grubhub’s Deceptive Advertising Claims and Other Unlawful Conduct](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-sends-more-238-million-drivers-diners-harmed-grubhubs-deceptive-advertising-claims-other)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 12, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission is sending payments totaling more than $23.8 million to drivers harmed by Grubhub’s deceptive earnings claims and diners harmed by the company’s misleading and unlawful...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Stops Sprawling Credit Repair Scheme that Scammed Consumers Out of Nearly $200 Million](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-stops-sprawling-credit-repair-scheme-scammed-consumers-out-nearly-200-million)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 10, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n At the request of the Federal Trade Commission, a federal court has temporarily halted a bogus credit repair scheme run by a sprawling network of 17 related companies and their principals. The FTC’s...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Ditches ‘Disparate Impact’](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-ditches-disparate-impact)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 7, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission today announced a policy statement clarifying that the Commission will not pursue claims based on disparate-impact or “unfair discrimination” theories. “Disparate-impact...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [Statements on the Grant of Early Termination of the FTC’s Investigation of IonQ’s Proposed Acquisition of SkyWater](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/07/statements-grant-early-termination-ftcs-investigation-ionqs-proposed-acquisition-skywater)\n\n\n\n\n\nDate\n\n\n\n\n\nJuly 31, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n The Federal Trade Commission granted early termination of its review of quantum computing developer IonQ Inc.’s proposed acquisition of SkyWater Technologies Inc., a quantum chip fabrication company...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDisplaying 1 - 20 of 11085\n\n\n\n\n\n#### Pagination\n\n\n - [Current page 1](?page=0)\n - [Page 2](?page=1)\n - [Page 3](?page=2)\n - [Page 4](?page=3)\n - [Page 5](?page=4)\n - [Page 6](?page=5)\n - [Page 7](?page=6)\n - [Page 8](?page=7)\n - [Page 9](?page=8)\n - …\n - [Next page next ›](?page=1)\n - [Last page last »](?page=554)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n [**Return to top](#top)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n * [/](/) *\n\n Menu\n\n\n\n## Secondary Menu\n\n\n - [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n - [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Main navigation\n\n\n - [Enforcement](/enforcement)\n - [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n - [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n - [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n - [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n - [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n - [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n - [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n - [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n - [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n - [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n - [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n - [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n - [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n - [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n - [Policy](/policy)\n - [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n - [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n - [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n - [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n - [Reports](/policy/reports)\n - [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Studies](/policy/studies)\n - [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n - [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n - [International](/policy/international)\n - [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n - Advice and Guidance\n - [Consumer Advice](http://consumer.ftc.gov/)\n - [Military Consumer](https://militaryconsumer.gov/)\n - [Consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov/)\n - [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n - [Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n - [Bulk Publications](https://bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n - [News and Events](/news-events)\n - [News](/news-events/news)\n - [Events](/news-events/events)\n - [Features](/news-events/features)\n - [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n - [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n - [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n - [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n - [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n - [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n - [About the FTC](/about-ftc)\n - [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n - [History](/about-ftc/history)\n - [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n - [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n - [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n - [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n - [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n - [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Footer\n\n\n - [Privacy Policy](/policy-notices/privacy-policy)\n - [Policy and Notices](/policy-notices)\n - [Accessibility](/policy-notices/accessibility)\n - [FOIA](/foia)\n - [No FEAR Act](/policy-notices/no-fear-act)\n - [Office of Inspector General](/oig)\n - [USA.gov](https://www.usa.gov/)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[* *](https://www.facebook.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://www.instagram.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://twitter.com/FTC)\n\n[* *](https://www.linkedin.com/company/163780/)\n\n[* *](https://www.youtube.com/ftcvideos)\n\n[* *](/news-events/stay-connected/ftc-rss-feeds)", "content_length": 33379, "content_type": "text/html", "description": "The official website of the Federal Trade Commission, protecting America’s consumers for over 100 years.", "status_code": 200, "success": true, "title": "Press Releases | Federal Trade Commission", "url": "https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases"}, "status": "completed", "tool_name": "web_fetch"}

E0007 · turn 1 · tool result · web_fetch · dispatch toolu_015eznGEmGTmWsmv3PvSbnfo

{"dispatch_id": "toolu_015eznGEmGTmWsmv3PvSbnfo", "elapsed": 0.630322303, "error": "", "result": {"content": "FTC Takes Action Against Payment Processor Humboldt Merchant Services for Knowingly Facilitating Payment Processing for Sham Merchants | Federal Trade Commission [Skip to main content](#main-content)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![U.S. flag](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/us_flag_small.png)\n\n\n\n\n\nAn official website of the United States government\n\n\n\nHere’s how you know\n\n\n\n Here's how you know\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Dot gov](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/icon-dot-gov.svg)\n\n\n\n **The .gov means it’s official.**\n Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a federal government site.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Https](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/icon-https.svg)\n\n\n\n **The site is secure.**\n The **https://** ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Español](/es)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n - [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n * [/](/) *\n\n Menu\n\n\n\n\n\n ![close](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/close.svg)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Main Menu Mega\n\n\n - Show/hide Enforcement menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Enforcement](/enforcement)\n\n\n\nWe enforce federal competition and consumer protection laws that prevent anticompetitive, deceptive, and unfair business practices.\n\n\n\n[View Enforcement](/enforcement)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Search or browse\n the Legal Library\n\n\n\nFind legal resources and guidance to understand your business responsibilities and comply with the law.\n\n\n\n[Browse legal resources](/legal-library/browse)\n\n Search small Search\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n - [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n - [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n - [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n - [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n - [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n - [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n - [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n - [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n - [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n - [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n - [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n - [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n - [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n - [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n - [Submit Merger/Antitrust Comment](/enforcement/submit-merger-antitrust-comment)\n - [File adjudicative documents](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices/office-secretary/document-filing)\n - [Find banned debt collectors](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/banned-debt-collectors)\n - [View competition guidance](/business-guidance/competition-business-guidance)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Competition Matters Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCompetition Matters\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [How Loyalty Discounts Between Firms Harm Competition When There Are Network Effects: FTC v. Surescripts](/enforcement/competition-matters/2026/02/how-loyalty-discounts-between-firms-harm-competition-when-there-are-network-effects-ftc-v-surescripts)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMatthew Chesnes (DAD, BE Antitrust I) and Ted Rosenbaum (Acting BE Director)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFebruary 13, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View all Competition Matters Blog posts](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - Show/hide Policy menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Policy](/policy)\n\n\n\nWe work to advance government policies that protect consumers and promote competition.\n\n\n\n[View Policy](/policy)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Search or browse\n the Legal Library\n\n\n\nFind legal resources and guidance to understand your business responsibilities and comply with the law.\n\n\n\n[Browse legal resources](/legal-library/browse)\n\n Search small Search\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n - [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n - [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n - [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n - [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n - [Reports](/policy/reports)\n - [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Studies](/policy/studies)\n - [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n - [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n - [International](/policy/international)\n - [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n\n - [Find policy statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n - [Submit a public comment](/policy/public-comments)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Technology Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTechnology Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [The FTC Is on the Front Lines of Tech Innovation & Regulation](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc/2025/01/ftc-front-lines-tech-innovation-regulation)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nStephanie T. Nguyen, Chief Technologist\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJanuary 17, 2025\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View all Technology Blog posts](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - Show/hide Advice and Guidance menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Advice and Guidance\n\n\n\nLearn more about your rights as a consumer and how to spot and avoid scams. Find the resources you need to understand how consumer protection law impacts your business.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n - [Report fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov)\n - [Report identity theft](http://www.identitytheft.gov)\n - [Report Take It Down violations](https://takeitdown.ftc.gov)\n - [Register for Do Not Call](https://www.donotcall.gov)\n - [Sign up for consumer alerts](https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USFTCCONSUMER/subscriber/new?topic_id=%5BREDACTED%5D)\n - [Get Business Blog updates](https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USFTCBUSINESS/subscriber/new?category_id=%5BREDACTED%5D)\n - [Get your free credit report](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/free-credit-reports)\n - [Find refund cases](/enforcement/refunds)\n - [Order bulk publications](https://www.bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Consumer Advice](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n - [Shopping and Donating](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/shopping-and-donating)\n - [Credit, Loans, and Debt](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/credit-loans-and-debt)\n - [Jobs and Making Money](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/jobs-and-making-money)\n - [Unwanted Calls, Emails, and Texts](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/unwanted-calls-emails-and-texts)\n - [Identity Theft and Online Security](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/identity-theft-and-online-security)\n - [Scams](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/scams)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n\n - [Advertising and Marketing](/business-guidance/advertising-marketing)\n - [Credit and Finance](/business-guidance/credit-finance)\n - [Privacy and Security](/business-guidance/privacy-security)\n - [By Industry](/business-guidance/industry)\n - [Search the RN database](/rn-database/search)\n - [For Small Businesses](/business-guidance/small-businesses)\n - [Browse Business Guidance Resources](/business-guidance/resources)\n - [Business Blog](/business-guidance/blog)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Servicemembers:\n Your tool for financial readiness\n\n\n\n[Visit militaryconsumer.gov](https://militaryconsumer.gov)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Get consumer protection basics, plain and simple\n\n\n\n[Visit consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Learn how the FTC protects free enterprise and consumers\n\n\n\n[Visit Competition Counts](/enforcement-policy/competition-enforcement/competition-guidance/competition-counts)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Looking for competition guidance?\n\n\n\n[Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - Show/hide News and Events menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [News and Events](/news-events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Latest News\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Publishes Proposed 2027 Budget for Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-publishes-proposed-2027-budget-horseracing-integrity-safety-authority)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 10, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View News and Events](/news-events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Upcoming Event\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNov05\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [Nineteenth Annual Microeconomics Conference](/microeconomics)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Thursday, November 5, 2026 - Friday, November 6, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View more Events](/news-events/events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n - [News](/news-events/news)\n - [Events](/news-events/events)\n - [Features](/news-events/features)\n - [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n - [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n - [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n - [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n - [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n - [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Sign up for the latest news](/news-events/stay-connected)\n\n## Follow us on social media\n\n[* *](https://www.facebook.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://www.instagram.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://twitter.com/FTC)\n\n[* *](https://www.linkedin.com/company/163780/)\n\n[* *](https://www.youtube.com/ftcvideos)\n\n[* *](/news-events/stay-connected#RSS)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Feature\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Freedom 250 flag graphic](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/freedom-250-flag-graphic1.png?itok=JxacvLBI)\n\n\n\n\n\n### [Celebrating 250 Years of Independence](/news-events/features/celebrating-250-years-independence)\n\nThis year, the United States celebrates 250 years of independence. Learn more about our agency's history and commemoration events happening across the nation.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Latest Data Visualization\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Visualization of FTC Refunds to Consumers](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/refunds-tableau.jpg?itok=uqgwQ2yN)\n\n\n\n\n\n### [FTC Refunds to Consumers](https://public.tableau.com/app/profile/federal.trade.commission/viz/Refunds_15797958402020/RefundsbyCase)\n\n\n\nExplore refund statistics including where refunds were sent and the dollar amounts refunded with this visualization.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - Show/hide About the FTC menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [About the FTC](/about-ftc)\n\nThe FTC’s mission is to vigorously enforce the law to protect Americans from anticompetitive, unfair, and deceptive business practices, without unduly burdening legitimate business activity.\n\n[Learn more about the FTC]( /about-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n - [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n - [History](/about-ftc/history)\n - [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n - [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n - [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n - [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n - [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n - [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Featured\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Commissioner Ferguson hi res image](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/commissioner-andrew-n-ferguson-res.jpg?itok=GZrqrqZc)\n\n\n\n\n\n### Meet the Chairman\n\nAndrew N. Ferguson is Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission.\n\n[Chairman Andrew N. Ferguson](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff/andrew-n-ferguson)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - [Search](https://search.usa.gov/search?affiliate=%5BREDACTED%5D) Show/hide Search menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Enter Search Term(s): \n\nLooking for legal documents or records? Search the [Legal Library](/legal-library) instead.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - [English](/)\n - [español](/es/ftc-en-espa%C3%B1ol?menut=1)\n\n\n - [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n - [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n - [Enforcement](/enforcement) Show/hide Enforcement menu items\n - [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n - [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n - [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n - [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n - [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n - [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n - [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n - [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n - [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n - [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n - [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n - [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n - [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n - [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n - [Policy](/policy) Show/hide Policy menu items\n - [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n - [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n - [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n - [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n - [Reports](/policy/reports)\n - [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Studies](/policy/studies)\n - [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n - [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n - [International](/policy/international)\n - [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n - Advice and Guidance Show/hide Advice and Guidance menu items\n - [Consumer Advice](http://consumer.ftc.gov/)\n - [Military Consumer](https://militaryconsumer.gov/)\n - [Consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov/)\n - [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n - [Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n - [Bulk Publications](https://bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n - [News and Events](/news-events) Show/hide News and Events menu items\n - [News](/news-events/news)\n - [Events](/news-events/events)\n - [Features](/news-events/features)\n - [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n - [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n - [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n - [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n - [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n - [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n - [About the FTC](/about-ftc) Show/hide About the FTC menu items\n - [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n - [History](/about-ftc/history)\n - [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n - [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n - [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n - [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n - [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n - [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Enter Search Term(s): \n\nLooking for legal documents or records? Search the [Legal Library](/legal-library) instead.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Breadcrumb\n\n\n - [Home](/)\n - [News and Events](/news-events)\n - [News](/news-events/news)\n - [Press Releases](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor Release\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n# FTC Takes Action Against Payment Processor Humboldt Merchant Services for Knowingly Facilitating Payment Processing for Sham Merchants\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUnder proposed order, defendant will be required to pay $12 million, stop payment processing for certain categories of merchants\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 8, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Facebook](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/img/social-icons/5296499_fb_facebook_facebook logo_icon.png)![Twitter](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/img/social-icons/x-twitter-black-logo.png)![LinkedIn](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/img/social-icons/317750_linkedin_icon.png)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTags:\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - [Consumer Protection](/consumer-protection)\n - [Regional Offices](/regional-offices)\n - [Northeast Region](/regional-offices/northeast-region)\n - [Bureau of Consumer Protection](/bureau-consumer-protection)\n - [Credit and Finance](/business-guidance/credit-finance)\n - [Payments and Billing](/business-guidance/credit-finance/payments-billing)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPayment processing company Humboldt Merchant Services will pay $12 million and be permanently banned from processing payments for merchants with a heightened risk of potential fraud to settle allegations that Humboldt processed payments for merchants that defrauded consumers.\n\nAccording to the [FTC’s complaint](/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/Humboldt-Complaint.pdf),** **Humboldt processed payments for more than 1,000 merchants that were shell entities that served as fronts or pass-throughs for fraudulent companies engaged in unauthorized billing scams, including [Legion Media](/news-events/news/press-releases/2024/09/ftc-orders-shut-down-unauthorized-billing-credit-card-laundering-schemes-require-turn-over-assets), which the FTC shut down in 2024. \n\n“Humboldt was processing payments for companies despite red flags indicating they were scamming consumers,” said Katherine White, Deputy Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “This case underscores the FTC’s commitment to holding companies accountable for knowingly supporting fraudulent businesses.”\n\nThe FTC’s complaint alleges that Humboldt:\n\n- Opened and processed payments for merchants it knew, or consciously avoided knowing, were shell companies used by undisclosed third parties engaged in fraud;\n- Opened these sham accounts despite red flags indicating the merchants were shells and typically incurred chargebacks at rates that were almost 10 times higher than what credit card brands view as excessive; and \n- Attempted to increase the volume of transactions processed through these sham accounts by placing them on a lower-risk bank “BIN” (a bank identification number licensed by the credit card networks), used by an affiliated entity, to improve the likelihood that attempted transactions would be approved by cardholders’ banks.\n\nIn addition to paying $12 million for consumer redress, the [proposed order will prohibit Humboldt](/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/Humboldt-StipulatedOrder.pdf) from:\n\n- engaging in or assisting others who are engaged in credit card laundering;\n- payment processing for four categories of merchants: \n - straw companies;\n - merchants on the Mastercard Alert to Control High-Risk (MATCH) list for reasons including excessive chargebacks, laundering and fraud;\n - merchants that have been subject to law enforcement action; and\n - e-commerce entities that use third-party mailbox providers, such as UPS stores, as their only business location and either use negative option billing, are new or do not have past processing history.\n\n- making or assisting others in providing false or misleading information to obtain payment processing, such as misleading information about merchants in applications for merchant accounts; and\n- engaging in, or assisting those engaged in, tactics to avoid fraud and risk monitoring, including load balancing.\n\nThe Commission vote approving the filing of the proposed order was 2-0. The FTC filed the proposed order in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan.\n\n**NOTE: **Stipulated final orders or injunctions have the force of law when approved and signed by the District Court judge.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Federal Trade Commission works to promote competition and [protect and educate consumers](https://www.ftc.gov/about-ftc/bureaus-offices/bureau-consumer-protection). The FTC will never demand money, make threats, tell you to transfer money, or promise you a prize. Learn more about consumer topics at [consumer.ftc.gov](https://consumer.ftc.gov/), or report fraud, scams, and bad business practices at [ReportFraud.ftc.gov](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/). Follow the [FTC on social media](https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/stay-connected/social-media), read [consumer alerts](https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts) and the [business blog](https://www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/blog), and [sign up to get the latest FTC news and alerts](/news-events/stay-connected).\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Contact Information\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Media Contact\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Nicole Drayton](mailto:ndrayton@ftc.gov)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOffice of Public Affairs\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n202-326-2565\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Related Cases\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Humboldt Merchant Services](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/humboldt-merchant-services)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n [**Return to top](#top)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n * [/](/) *\n\n Menu\n\n\n\n## Secondary Menu\n\n\n - [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n - [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Main navigation\n\n\n - [Enforcement](/enforcement)\n - [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n - [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n - [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n - [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n - [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n - [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n - [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n - [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n - [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n - [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n - [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n - [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n - [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n - [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n - [Policy](/policy)\n - [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n - [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n - [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n - [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n - [Reports](/policy/reports)\n - [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Studies](/policy/studies)\n - [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n - [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n - [International](/policy/international)\n - [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n - Advice and Guidance\n - [Consumer Advice](http://consumer.ftc.gov/)\n - [Military Consumer](https://militaryconsumer.gov/)\n - [Consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov/)\n - [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n - [Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n - [Bulk Publications](https://bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n - [News and Events](/news-events)\n - [News](/news-events/news)\n - [Events](/news-events/events)\n - [Features](/news-events/features)\n - [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n - [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n - [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n - [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n - [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n - [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n - [About the FTC](/about-ftc)\n - [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n - [History](/about-ftc/history)\n - [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n - [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n - [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n - [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n - [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n - [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Footer\n\n\n - [Privacy Policy](/policy-notices/privacy-policy)\n - [Policy and Notices](/policy-notices)\n - [Accessibility](/policy-notices/accessibility)\n - [FOIA](/foia)\n - [No FEAR Act](/policy-notices/no-fear-act)\n - [Office of Inspector General](/oig)\n - [USA.gov](https://www.usa.gov/)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[* *](https://www.facebook.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://www.instagram.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://twitter.com/FTC)\n\n[* *](https://www.linkedin.com/company/163780/)\n\n[* *](https://www.youtube.com/ftcvideos)\n\n[* *](/news-events/stay-connected/ftc-rss-feeds)", "content_length": 24928, "content_type": "text/html", "description": "Payment processing company Humboldt Merchant Services will pay $12 million and be permanently banned from processing payments for merchants with a heightened risk of potential fraud to settle alleg", "status_code": 200, "success": true, "title": "FTC Takes Action Against Payment Processor Humboldt Merchant Services for Knowingly Facilitating Payment Processing for Sham Merchants | Federal Trade Commission", "url": "https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-takes-action-against-payment-processor-humboldt-merchant-services-knowingly-facilitating-payment"}, "status": "completed", "tool_name": "web_fetch"}

E0010 · turn 1 · tool result · web_fetch · dispatch toolu_01TbyF7gt1bhE6JXbYujcYfV

{"dispatch_id": "toolu_01TbyF7gt1bhE6JXbYujcYfV", "elapsed": 0.673472832, "error": "", "result": {"content": "Payment Processor Nuvei Must Implement Robust Merchant Screening Practices and Pay $4.85 Million to Settle FTC Charges that the Firm Facilitated Merchant Fraud | Federal Trade Commission [Skip to main content](#main-content)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![U.S. flag](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/us_flag_small.png)\n\n\n\n\n\nAn official website of the United States government\n\n\n\nHere’s how you know\n\n\n\n Here's how you know\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Dot gov](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/icon-dot-gov.svg)\n\n\n\n **The .gov means it’s official.**\n Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a federal government site.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Https](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/icon-https.svg)\n\n\n\n **The site is secure.**\n The **https://** ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Español](/es)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n - [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n * [/](/) *\n\n Menu\n\n\n\n\n\n ![close](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/close.svg)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Main Menu Mega\n\n\n - Show/hide Enforcement menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Enforcement](/enforcement)\n\n\n\nWe enforce federal competition and consumer protection laws that prevent anticompetitive, deceptive, and unfair business practices.\n\n\n\n[View Enforcement](/enforcement)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Search or browse\n the Legal Library\n\n\n\nFind legal resources and guidance to understand your business responsibilities and comply with the law.\n\n\n\n[Browse legal resources](/legal-library/browse)\n\n Search small Search\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n - [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n - [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n - [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n - [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n - [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n - [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n - [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n - [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n - [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n - [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n - [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n - [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n - [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n - [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n - [Submit Merger/Antitrust Comment](/enforcement/submit-merger-antitrust-comment)\n - [File adjudicative documents](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices/office-secretary/document-filing)\n - [Find banned debt collectors](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/banned-debt-collectors)\n - [View competition guidance](/business-guidance/competition-business-guidance)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Competition Matters Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCompetition Matters\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [How Loyalty Discounts Between Firms Harm Competition When There Are Network Effects: FTC v. Surescripts](/enforcement/competition-matters/2026/02/how-loyalty-discounts-between-firms-harm-competition-when-there-are-network-effects-ftc-v-surescripts)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMatthew Chesnes (DAD, BE Antitrust I) and Ted Rosenbaum (Acting BE Director)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFebruary 13, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View all Competition Matters Blog posts](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - Show/hide Policy menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Policy](/policy)\n\n\n\nWe work to advance government policies that protect consumers and promote competition.\n\n\n\n[View Policy](/policy)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Search or browse\n the Legal Library\n\n\n\nFind legal resources and guidance to understand your business responsibilities and comply with the law.\n\n\n\n[Browse legal resources](/legal-library/browse)\n\n Search small Search\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n - [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n - [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n - [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n - [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n - [Reports](/policy/reports)\n - [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Studies](/policy/studies)\n - [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n - [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n - [International](/policy/international)\n - [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n\n - [Find policy statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n - [Submit a public comment](/policy/public-comments)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Technology Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTechnology Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [The FTC Is on the Front Lines of Tech Innovation & Regulation](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc/2025/01/ftc-front-lines-tech-innovation-regulation)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nStephanie T. Nguyen, Chief Technologist\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJanuary 17, 2025\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View all Technology Blog posts](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - Show/hide Advice and Guidance menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Advice and Guidance\n\n\n\nLearn more about your rights as a consumer and how to spot and avoid scams. Find the resources you need to understand how consumer protection law impacts your business.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n - [Report fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov)\n - [Report identity theft](http://www.identitytheft.gov)\n - [Report Take It Down violations](https://takeitdown.ftc.gov)\n - [Register for Do Not Call](https://www.donotcall.gov)\n - [Sign up for consumer alerts](https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USFTCCONSUMER/subscriber/new?topic_id=%5BREDACTED%5D)\n - [Get Business Blog updates](https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USFTCBUSINESS/subscriber/new?category_id=%5BREDACTED%5D)\n - [Get your free credit report](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/free-credit-reports)\n - [Find refund cases](/enforcement/refunds)\n - [Order bulk publications](https://www.bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Consumer Advice](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n - [Shopping and Donating](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/shopping-and-donating)\n - [Credit, Loans, and Debt](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/credit-loans-and-debt)\n - [Jobs and Making Money](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/jobs-and-making-money)\n - [Unwanted Calls, Emails, and Texts](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/unwanted-calls-emails-and-texts)\n - [Identity Theft and Online Security](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/identity-theft-and-online-security)\n - [Scams](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/scams)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n\n - [Advertising and Marketing](/business-guidance/advertising-marketing)\n - [Credit and Finance](/business-guidance/credit-finance)\n - [Privacy and Security](/business-guidance/privacy-security)\n - [By Industry](/business-guidance/industry)\n - [Search the RN database](/rn-database/search)\n - [For Small Businesses](/business-guidance/small-businesses)\n - [Browse Business Guidance Resources](/business-guidance/resources)\n - [Business Blog](/business-guidance/blog)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Servicemembers:\n Your tool for financial readiness\n\n\n\n[Visit militaryconsumer.gov](https://militaryconsumer.gov)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Get consumer protection basics, plain and simple\n\n\n\n[Visit consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Learn how the FTC protects free enterprise and consumers\n\n\n\n[Visit Competition Counts](/enforcement-policy/competition-enforcement/competition-guidance/competition-counts)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Looking for competition guidance?\n\n\n\n[Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - Show/hide News and Events menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [News and Events](/news-events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Latest News\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Publishes Proposed 2027 Budget for Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-publishes-proposed-2027-budget-horseracing-integrity-safety-authority)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 10, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View News and Events](/news-events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Upcoming Event\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNov05\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [Nineteenth Annual Microeconomics Conference](/microeconomics)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Thursday, November 5, 2026 - Friday, November 6, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View more Events](/news-events/events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n - [News](/news-events/news)\n - [Events](/news-events/events)\n - [Features](/news-events/features)\n - [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n - [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n - [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n - [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n - [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n - [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Sign up for the latest news](/news-events/stay-connected)\n\n## Follow us on social media\n\n[* *](https://www.facebook.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://www.instagram.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://twitter.com/FTC)\n\n[* *](https://www.linkedin.com/company/163780/)\n\n[* *](https://www.youtube.com/ftcvideos)\n\n[* *](/news-events/stay-connected#RSS)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Feature\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Freedom 250 flag graphic](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/freedom-250-flag-graphic1.png?itok=JxacvLBI)\n\n\n\n\n\n### [Celebrating 250 Years of Independence](/news-events/features/celebrating-250-years-independence)\n\nThis year, the United States celebrates 250 years of independence. Learn more about our agency's history and commemoration events happening across the nation.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Latest Data Visualization\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Visualization of FTC Refunds to Consumers](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/refunds-tableau.jpg?itok=uqgwQ2yN)\n\n\n\n\n\n### [FTC Refunds to Consumers](https://public.tableau.com/app/profile/federal.trade.commission/viz/Refunds_15797958402020/RefundsbyCase)\n\n\n\nExplore refund statistics including where refunds were sent and the dollar amounts refunded with this visualization.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - Show/hide About the FTC menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [About the FTC](/about-ftc)\n\nThe FTC’s mission is to vigorously enforce the law to protect Americans from anticompetitive, unfair, and deceptive business practices, without unduly burdening legitimate business activity.\n\n[Learn more about the FTC]( /about-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n - [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n - [History](/about-ftc/history)\n - [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n - [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n - [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n - [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n - [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n - [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Featured\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Commissioner Ferguson hi res image](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/commissioner-andrew-n-ferguson-res.jpg?itok=GZrqrqZc)\n\n\n\n\n\n### Meet the Chairman\n\nAndrew N. Ferguson is Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission.\n\n[Chairman Andrew N. Ferguson](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff/andrew-n-ferguson)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - [Search](https://search.usa.gov/search?affiliate=%5BREDACTED%5D) Show/hide Search menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Enter Search Term(s): \n\nLooking for legal documents or records? Search the [Legal Library](/legal-library) instead.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - [English](/)\n - [español](/es/ftc-en-espa%C3%B1ol?menut=1)\n\n\n - [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n - [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n - [Enforcement](/enforcement) Show/hide Enforcement menu items\n - [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n - [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n - [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n - [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n - [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n - [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n - [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n - [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n - [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n - [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n - [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n - [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n - [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n - [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n - [Policy](/policy) Show/hide Policy menu items\n - [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n - [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n - [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n - [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n - [Reports](/policy/reports)\n - [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Studies](/policy/studies)\n - [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n - [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n - [International](/policy/international)\n - [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n - Advice and Guidance Show/hide Advice and Guidance menu items\n - [Consumer Advice](http://consumer.ftc.gov/)\n - [Military Consumer](https://militaryconsumer.gov/)\n - [Consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov/)\n - [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n - [Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n - [Bulk Publications](https://bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n - [News and Events](/news-events) Show/hide News and Events menu items\n - [News](/news-events/news)\n - [Events](/news-events/events)\n - [Features](/news-events/features)\n - [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n - [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n - [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n - [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n - [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n - [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n - [About the FTC](/about-ftc) Show/hide About the FTC menu items\n - [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n - [History](/about-ftc/history)\n - [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n - [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n - [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n - [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n - [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n - [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Enter Search Term(s): \n\nLooking for legal documents or records? Search the [Legal Library](/legal-library) instead.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Breadcrumb\n\n\n - [Home](/)\n - [News and Events](/news-events)\n - [News](/news-events/news)\n - [Press Releases](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor Release\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n# Payment Processor Nuvei Must Implement Robust Merchant Screening Practices and Pay $4.85 Million to Settle FTC Charges that the Firm Facilitated Merchant Fraud\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNuvei and its subsidiaries alleged to have knowingly processed for merchants engaged in fraudulent activity\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 4, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Facebook](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/img/social-icons/5296499_fb_facebook_facebook logo_icon.png)![Twitter](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/img/social-icons/x-twitter-black-logo.png)![LinkedIn](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/img/social-icons/317750_linkedin_icon.png)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTags:\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - [Consumer Protection](/consumer-protection)\n - [Bureau of Consumer Protection](/bureau-consumer-protection)\n - [Credit and Finance](/business-guidance/credit-finance)\n - [Payments and Billing](/business-guidance/credit-finance/payments-billing)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGlobal payment processor Nuvei will pay $4.85 million to settle the Federal Trade Commission’s charges that the firm opened and maintained payment processing accounts for merchants that it knew or should have known were engaged in deception, including tech support scams that took millions of dollars from consumers. \n\nIn its [complaint, the FTC alleges that Canada-based Nuvei Corporation](/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/Nuvei-Complaint.pdf)** **and its subsidiaries, Nuvei International Group Limited, Nuvei Limited, SafeCharge Digital Limited and Nuvei Technologies Inc., processed payments for scammers, including tech support scams targeting U.S. consumers. Specifically, Nuvei processed more than $30 million in consumer payments for Reimage, an offshore tech support scam, from 2017 to 2023, according to the FTC’s complaint. \n\n“Today’s action underscores the Commission’s commitment to ensuring that our payments system operates free of fraud,” said Christopher Mufarrige, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “Our enforcement work reinforces the transparency and trust in the payments system that consumers and businesses depend on. Consumers deserve a payment system that is competitive, transparent and fortified against fraud—and we will take action anytime those standards are threatened.”\n\nThe complaint also alleges that, through its merchant acquiring bank registered in Cyprus, Nuvei furnished Reimage and other overseas deceptive tech support schemes with payment processing accounts that enabled the schemes to take credit card payments from cardholders in the United States and elsewhere. \n\nThe FTC took action against [the operators of Reimage](/news-events/news/press-releases/2024/03/tech-support-firms-will-pay-26-million-settle-ftc-charges-they-deceived-consumers-buying-repair) in 2024 and last year also sued a Europe-based payment processor, [Paddle,](/news-events/news/press-releases/2025/06/paddle-will-pay-5-million-settle-ftc-allegations-unfair-payment-processing-practices-facilitation) which allegedly used its “merchant of record” platform to facilitate Reimage’s deceptive tech support scheme.\n\nThe FTC alleges that, in addition to providing credit card processing accounts for Reimage and other tech support schemes, Nuvei’s U.S.-based subsidiary, Nuvei Technologies Inc., also opened and maintained merchant accounts for merchants allegedly selling business opportunities with false or baseless earnings claims such as DK Automation, merchants impersonating government tax authorities such as American Tax Service and merchants that other payment processors or acquiring banks previously terminated for excessive chargebacks or fraud. The FTC brought enforcement actions against [DK Automation and its founder in November 2022](/news-events/news/press-releases/2022/11/ftc-takes-action-stop-dk-automation-kevin-david-hulse-pitching-phony-amazon-crypto-moneymaking) and against [American Tax Service and its owners in October 2025](/news-events/news/press-releases/2025/10/ftc-nevada-sue-tax-debt-relief-scammers-falsely-impersonating-government).\n\nThe complaint charges Nuvei and its operators with unfair practices in connection with payment processing in violation of the FTC Act and assisting and facilitating deceptive telemarketers in violation of the Telemarketing Sales Rule.\n\n[Under the proposed order with the FTC, Nuvei will pay $4.85 million](/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/Nuvei-Order_0.pdf), which will be used to provide consumer redress. The defendants are also prohibited from engaging in unfair or deceptive payment processing practices like those alleged in the complaint. Specifically, the proposed order:\n\n- Bans Nuvei from providing payment services to any person selling tech support products or services by telemarketing or by pop-up messages relating to security or performance issues on a computer or other device; \n- Prohibits Nuvei from making false or misleading statements to obtain merchant accounts and other payment processing services for itself or others, and engaging in any tactics to avoid fraud or risk monitoring programs established by banks or credit card networks, including load balancing; and \n- Requires Nuvei to screen and monitor its existing and prospective clients, including clients in certain merchant categories such as outbound telemarketing, and conduct enhanced screening and investigation of any existing client whose chargeback rates exceed the limits set forth in the order.\n\nThe Commission vote authorizing the staff to file the complaint and stipulated order was 2-0. The FTC filed the complaint and final order** **in the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona. \n\nChairman Andrew N. Ferguson and Commissioner Mark R. Meador [issued a joint statement](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/public-statements/joint-statement-chairman-andrew-n-ferguson-commissioner-mark-r-meador-matter-nuvei). \n\n**NOTE:** The Commission files a complaint when it has “reason to believe” that the named defendants are violating or are about to violate the law and it appears to the Commission that a proceeding is in the public interest. The case will be decided by the court.\n\nThe lead attorneys in this matter are Russell Deitch and Sung W. Kim in the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Federal Trade Commission works to promote competition and [protect and educate consumers](https://www.ftc.gov/about-ftc/bureaus-offices/bureau-consumer-protection). The FTC will never demand money, make threats, tell you to transfer money, or promise you a prize. Learn more about consumer topics at [consumer.ftc.gov](https://consumer.ftc.gov/), or report fraud, scams, and bad business practices at [ReportFraud.ftc.gov](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/). Follow the [FTC on social media](https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/stay-connected/social-media), read [consumer alerts](https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts) and the [business blog](https://www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/blog), and [sign up to get the latest FTC news and alerts](/news-events/stay-connected).\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Contact Information\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Media Contact\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Nicole Drayton](mailto:ndrayton@ftc.gov)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOffice of Public Affairs\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n202-326-2565\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Related Cases\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Nuvei](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/nuvei)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Related actions\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Joint Statement of Chairman Andrew N. Ferguson and Commissioner Mark R. Meador In the Matter of Nuvei](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/public-statements/joint-statement-chairman-andrew-n-ferguson-commissioner-mark-r-meador-matter-nuvei)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n [**Return to top](#top)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n * [/](/) *\n\n Menu\n\n\n\n## Secondary Menu\n\n\n - [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n - [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Main navigation\n\n\n - [Enforcement](/enforcement)\n - [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n - [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n - [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n - [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n - [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n - [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n - [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n - [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n - [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n - [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n - [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n - [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n - [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n - [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n - [Policy](/policy)\n - [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n - [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n - [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n - [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n - [Reports](/policy/reports)\n - [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Studies](/policy/studies)\n - [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n - [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n - [International](/policy/international)\n - [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n - Advice and Guidance\n - [Consumer Advice](http://consumer.ftc.gov/)\n - [Military Consumer](https://militaryconsumer.gov/)\n - [Consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov/)\n - [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n - [Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n - [Bulk Publications](https://bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n - [News and Events](/news-events)\n - [News](/news-events/news)\n - [Events](/news-events/events)\n - [Features](/news-events/features)\n - [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n - [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n - [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n - [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n - [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n - [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n - [About the FTC](/about-ftc)\n - [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n - [History](/about-ftc/history)\n - [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n - [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n - [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n - [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n - [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n - [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Footer\n\n\n - [Privacy Policy](/policy-notices/privacy-policy)\n - [Policy and Notices](/policy-notices)\n - [Accessibility](/policy-notices/accessibility)\n - [FOIA](/foia)\n - [No FEAR Act](/policy-notices/no-fear-act)\n - [Office of Inspector General](/oig)\n - [USA.gov](https://www.usa.gov/)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[* *](https://www.facebook.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://www.instagram.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://twitter.com/FTC)\n\n[* *](https://www.linkedin.com/company/163780/)\n\n[* *](https://www.youtube.com/ftcvideos)\n\n[* *](/news-events/stay-connected/ftc-rss-feeds)", "content_length": 27268, "content_type": "text/html", "description": "Global payment processor Nuvei will pay $4.85 million to settle the Federal Trade Commission’s charges that the firm opened and maintained payment processing accounts for merchants that it knew or", "status_code": 200, "success": true, "title": "Payment Processor Nuvei Must Implement Robust Merchant Screening Practices and Pay $4.85 Million to Settle FTC Charges that the Firm Facilitated Merchant Fraud | Federal Trade Commission", "url": "https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/payment-processor-nuvei-must-implement-robust-merchant-screening-practices-pay-485-million-settle"}, "status": "completed", "tool_name": "web_fetch"}

E0013 · turn 1 · tool result · web_fetch · dispatch toolu_015tH8634JQyNqvFUWFMLYfg

{"dispatch_id": "toolu_015tH8634JQyNqvFUWFMLYfg", "elapsed": 0.668438365, "error": "", "result": {"content": "FTC, States Sue Amazon Over Secret Ad Surcharge Scheme | Federal Trade Commission [Skip to main content](#main-content)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![U.S. flag](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/us_flag_small.png)\n\n\n\n\n\nAn official website of the United States government\n\n\n\nHere’s how you know\n\n\n\n Here's how you know\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Dot gov](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/icon-dot-gov.svg)\n\n\n\n **The .gov means it’s official.**\n Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a federal government site.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Https](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/icon-https.svg)\n\n\n\n **The site is secure.**\n The **https://** ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Español](/es)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n - [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n * [/](/) *\n\n Menu\n\n\n\n\n\n ![close](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/uswds/dist/img/close.svg)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Main Menu Mega\n\n\n - Show/hide Enforcement menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Enforcement](/enforcement)\n\n\n\nWe enforce federal competition and consumer protection laws that prevent anticompetitive, deceptive, and unfair business practices.\n\n\n\n[View Enforcement](/enforcement)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Search or browse\n the Legal Library\n\n\n\nFind legal resources and guidance to understand your business responsibilities and comply with the law.\n\n\n\n[Browse legal resources](/legal-library/browse)\n\n Search small Search\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n - [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n - [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n - [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n - [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n - [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n - [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n - [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n - [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n - [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n - [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n - [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n - [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n - [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n - [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n - [Submit Merger/Antitrust Comment](/enforcement/submit-merger-antitrust-comment)\n - [File adjudicative documents](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices/office-secretary/document-filing)\n - [Find banned debt collectors](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/banned-debt-collectors)\n - [View competition guidance](/business-guidance/competition-business-guidance)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Competition Matters Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCompetition Matters\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [How Loyalty Discounts Between Firms Harm Competition When There Are Network Effects: FTC v. Surescripts](/enforcement/competition-matters/2026/02/how-loyalty-discounts-between-firms-harm-competition-when-there-are-network-effects-ftc-v-surescripts)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMatthew Chesnes (DAD, BE Antitrust I) and Ted Rosenbaum (Acting BE Director)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFebruary 13, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View all Competition Matters Blog posts](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - Show/hide Policy menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Policy](/policy)\n\n\n\nWe work to advance government policies that protect consumers and promote competition.\n\n\n\n[View Policy](/policy)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Search or browse\n the Legal Library\n\n\n\nFind legal resources and guidance to understand your business responsibilities and comply with the law.\n\n\n\n[Browse legal resources](/legal-library/browse)\n\n Search small Search\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n - [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n - [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n - [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n - [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n - [Reports](/policy/reports)\n - [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Studies](/policy/studies)\n - [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n - [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n - [International](/policy/international)\n - [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n\n - [Find policy statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n - [Submit a public comment](/policy/public-comments)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Technology Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTechnology Blog\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [The FTC Is on the Front Lines of Tech Innovation & Regulation](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc/2025/01/ftc-front-lines-tech-innovation-regulation)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nStephanie T. Nguyen, Chief Technologist\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJanuary 17, 2025\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View all Technology Blog posts](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - Show/hide Advice and Guidance menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Advice and Guidance\n\n\n\nLearn more about your rights as a consumer and how to spot and avoid scams. Find the resources you need to understand how consumer protection law impacts your business.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Take action\n\n - [Report fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov)\n - [Report identity theft](http://www.identitytheft.gov)\n - [Report Take It Down violations](https://takeitdown.ftc.gov)\n - [Register for Do Not Call](https://www.donotcall.gov)\n - [Sign up for consumer alerts](https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USFTCCONSUMER/subscriber/new?topic_id=%5BREDACTED%5D)\n - [Get Business Blog updates](https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USFTCBUSINESS/subscriber/new?category_id=%5BREDACTED%5D)\n - [Get your free credit report](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/free-credit-reports)\n - [Find refund cases](/enforcement/refunds)\n - [Order bulk publications](https://www.bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Consumer Advice](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n - [Shopping and Donating](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/shopping-and-donating)\n - [Credit, Loans, and Debt](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/credit-loans-and-debt)\n - [Jobs and Making Money](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/jobs-and-making-money)\n - [Unwanted Calls, Emails, and Texts](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/unwanted-calls-emails-and-texts)\n - [Identity Theft and Online Security](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/identity-theft-and-online-security)\n - [Scams](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/scams)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n\n - [Advertising and Marketing](/business-guidance/advertising-marketing)\n - [Credit and Finance](/business-guidance/credit-finance)\n - [Privacy and Security](/business-guidance/privacy-security)\n - [By Industry](/business-guidance/industry)\n - [Search the RN database](/rn-database/search)\n - [For Small Businesses](/business-guidance/small-businesses)\n - [Browse Business Guidance Resources](/business-guidance/resources)\n - [Business Blog](/business-guidance/blog)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Servicemembers:\n Your tool for financial readiness\n\n\n\n[Visit militaryconsumer.gov](https://militaryconsumer.gov)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Get consumer protection basics, plain and simple\n\n\n\n[Visit consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Learn how the FTC protects free enterprise and consumers\n\n\n\n[Visit Competition Counts](/enforcement-policy/competition-enforcement/competition-guidance/competition-counts)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Looking for competition guidance?\n\n\n\n[Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - Show/hide News and Events menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [News and Events](/news-events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Latest News\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Press Release](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n### [FTC Publishes Proposed 2027 Budget for Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority](/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/09/ftc-publishes-proposed-2027-budget-horseracing-integrity-safety-authority)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSeptember 10, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View News and Events](/news-events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Upcoming Event\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNov05\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### [Nineteenth Annual Microeconomics Conference](/microeconomics)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Thursday, November 5, 2026 - Friday, November 6, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[View more Events](/news-events/events)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n - [News](/news-events/news)\n - [Events](/news-events/events)\n - [Features](/news-events/features)\n - [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n - [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n - [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n - [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n - [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n - [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Sign up for the latest news](/news-events/stay-connected)\n\n## Follow us on social media\n\n[* *](https://www.facebook.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://www.instagram.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://twitter.com/FTC)\n\n[* *](https://www.linkedin.com/company/163780/)\n\n[* *](https://www.youtube.com/ftcvideos)\n\n[* *](/news-events/stay-connected#RSS)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Feature\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Freedom 250 flag graphic](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/freedom-250-flag-graphic1.png?itok=JxacvLBI)\n\n\n\n\n\n### [Celebrating 250 Years of Independence](/news-events/features/celebrating-250-years-independence)\n\nThis year, the United States celebrates 250 years of independence. Learn more about our agency's history and commemoration events happening across the nation.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Latest Data Visualization\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Visualization of FTC Refunds to Consumers](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/refunds-tableau.jpg?itok=uqgwQ2yN)\n\n\n\n\n\n### [FTC Refunds to Consumers](https://public.tableau.com/app/profile/federal.trade.commission/viz/Refunds_15797958402020/RefundsbyCase)\n\n\n\nExplore refund statistics including where refunds were sent and the dollar amounts refunded with this visualization.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - Show/hide About the FTC menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## [About the FTC](/about-ftc)\n\nThe FTC’s mission is to vigorously enforce the law to protect Americans from anticompetitive, unfair, and deceptive business practices, without unduly burdening legitimate business activity.\n\n[Learn more about the FTC]( /about-ftc)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Sections\n\n\n - [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n - [History](/about-ftc/history)\n - [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n - [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n - [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n - [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n - [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n - [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Featured\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Commissioner Ferguson hi res image](/system/files/styles/crop_thumbnail/private/ftc_gov/images/commissioner-andrew-n-ferguson-res.jpg?itok=GZrqrqZc)\n\n\n\n\n\n### Meet the Chairman\n\nAndrew N. Ferguson is Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission.\n\n[Chairman Andrew N. Ferguson](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff/andrew-n-ferguson)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - [Search](https://search.usa.gov/search?affiliate=%5BREDACTED%5D) Show/hide Search menu items\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Enter Search Term(s): \n\nLooking for legal documents or records? Search the [Legal Library](/legal-library) instead.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - [English](/)\n - [español](/es/ftc-en-espa%C3%B1ol?menut=1)\n\n\n - [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n - [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n - [Enforcement](/enforcement) Show/hide Enforcement menu items\n - [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n - [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n - [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n - [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n - [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n - [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n - [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n - [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n - [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n - [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n - [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n - [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n - [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n - [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n - [Policy](/policy) Show/hide Policy menu items\n - [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n - [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n - [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n - [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n - [Reports](/policy/reports)\n - [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Studies](/policy/studies)\n - [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n - [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n - [International](/policy/international)\n - [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n - Advice and Guidance Show/hide Advice and Guidance menu items\n - [Consumer Advice](http://consumer.ftc.gov/)\n - [Military Consumer](https://militaryconsumer.gov/)\n - [Consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov/)\n - [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n - [Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n - [Bulk Publications](https://bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n - [News and Events](/news-events) Show/hide News and Events menu items\n - [News](/news-events/news)\n - [Events](/news-events/events)\n - [Features](/news-events/features)\n - [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n - [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n - [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n - [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n - [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n - [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n - [About the FTC](/about-ftc) Show/hide About the FTC menu items\n - [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n - [History](/about-ftc/history)\n - [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n - [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n - [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n - [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n - [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n - [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Enter Search Term(s): \n\nLooking for legal documents or records? Search the [Legal Library](/legal-library) instead.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Breadcrumb\n\n\n - [Home](/)\n - [News and Events](/news-events)\n - [News](/news-events/news)\n - [Press Releases](/news-events/news/press-releases)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor Release\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n# FTC, States Sue Amazon Over Secret Ad Surcharge Scheme\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFTC and 22 state attorneys general allege Amazon concealed unfair charges in its digital advertising auction pricing\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAugust 31, 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n ![Facebook](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/img/social-icons/5296499_fb_facebook_facebook logo_icon.png)![Twitter](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/img/social-icons/x-twitter-black-logo.png)![LinkedIn](/themes/custom/ftc_uswds/img/social-icons/317750_linkedin_icon.png)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTags:\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n - [Consumer Protection](/consumer-protection)\n - [Bureau of Consumer Protection](/bureau-consumer-protection)\n - [Advertising and Marketing](/business-guidance/advertising-marketing)\n - [Online Advertising and Marketing](/business-guidance/advertising-marketing/online-advertising-marketing)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nToday, 22 states joined the Federal Trade Commission in filing suit against Amazon, alleging that the company engaged in deceptive and unfair practices that secretly inflated prices in its online search advertising auctions. The [complaint](/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/AmazonAds-Complaint.pdf)** **alleges that, for over seven years, Amazon has covertly and substantially increased the prices that more than one million brands and sellers were required to pay to advertise on its platform. As a result, the complaint alleges that Amazon’s scheme has likely extracted tens of billions of dollars from its unwitting advertising customers.\n\n“When one of the world’s largest online retailers engages in unfair and deceptive conduct, the impact can be staggering,” said Chairman Andrew N. Ferguson. “Amazon has millions of advertising customers who were misled into paying significantly higher prices. These higher costs were largely passed on to American consumers. The FTC under President Trump won’t allow this deception to continue.”\n\nThe FTC, along with the attorneys general of Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Vermont and Washington, allege Amazon has imposed undisclosed surcharges on its advertising customers, which include over 500,000 small- and medium-sized businesses that participated in auctions for advertising placements on Amazon.com and its mobile app.\n\nIn these auctions, prospective advertisers bid to place Sponsored Product ads, Sponsored Brands ads and Display Ads alongside the results that appear when a consumer searches for a product using a keyword on Amazon’s store. Placements are auctioned to the highest-ranked bidder for each keyword.\n\nAs described in the complaint, Amazon has represented to prospective advertisers for years that Amazon runs “second price” auctions where the winner of the auction would only pay “one cent more than the next highest bidder” for each successful bid for an advertising keyword. However, in practice, the complaint alleges that Amazon has charged its Sponsored Products advertisers their own winning bid close to 80% of the time and has effectively converted its nominally “second price” auction into a first price auction.\n\nAccording to the complaint, Amazon’s “second price” auctions have been described by Amazon, and understood by advertisers, to be run as generalized second-price, or GSP auctions, which have been the accepted industry standard for digital advertising placements.\n\nThe complaint states that Amazon has made these or similar representations on its website, in training videos and in other public-facing materials, as well as in presentations made to advertisers by its hundreds of sales personnel. \n\nThe type of auction matters to advertisers because it impacts how they bid. In a sealed first-price auction—the type of auction where winners pay the amount of their winning bid—bidders run the risk that they might overbid. So, in repetitive auctions for the same goods, they will often reduce their bid to determine what the minimum amount needed to win future auctions might be. This is called bid shading.\n\nIn second-price auctions, bidders are more likely to bid higher, closer to their true value for the product, because they will only be liable to pay the least bid amount needed to win under the auction’s rules. \n\nAs alleged in the complaint, Amazon told advertisers it ran a GSP, but for years its auction pricing had “a surcharge hidden in it,” in the words of one internal Amazon document. The complaint alleges that, beginning in 2019, Amazon changed its auction rules without notice by adding an undisclosed surcharge that Amazon referred to internally as a “soft reserve price.” This resulted in advertisers paying substantially more than the price determined by the GSP auction. \n\nAccording to the complaint, Amazon made this surreptitious change to its auction because it was unhappy about how much revenue its advertising auctions were generating. The complaint quotes from the executive in charge of Amazon Ads who explained internally that the price paid by advertisers “isn’t set by an actual bidder,” but is instead a “proxy 2nd price that we calculate.” In another document quoted in the complaint, Amazon acknowledged it uses an “invented auction participant” to increase prices. The complaint alleges that Amazon’s “invented auction participant” and its hidden “proxy 2nd price” bids are essentially shill bids. The complaint also quotes from another Amazon employee, who stated that Amazon’s surcharges enable it to obtain prices “beyond what [can] be achieved through advertiser competition.” \n\nThe complaint alleges that Amazon’s unlawful scheme has generated tens of billions of dollars of revenue for the company by, for example, substantially increasing the prices charged to advertisers on ordinary shopping days and applying far greater increases to prices on high-volume shopping days like Prime Day and Black Friday. The complaint quotes notes from a 2024 discussion between senior executives, including the head of Amazon Ads and Amazon’s Chief Digital Economist, where it was acknowledged that Amazon’s “clever non-transparent way to charge first price” has been an “incredibly effective way to drive revenue.”\n\nAs described in the complaint, because Amazon understood that revealing the surcharges—and the fact that the auction was no longer a genuine second-price auction—would lead to significant backlash from its advertising customers, Amazon spent years concealing the changes from the public. For example, leading up to the high-volume days, Amazon carefully ramps up surcharges to disguise the fact that it is inflating prices. Amazon has repeatedly deployed such underhanded tactics to increase its surcharges to meet revenue targets. \n\nAmazon knows that it benefits from its advertisers’ false belief that the prices they pay are set by fair, competitive second-price auctions, according to the complaint. The complaint quotes from Amazon employees acknowledging that advertisers “are operating under the assumption that Amazon uses a GSP auction,” that advertisers “believe Amazon will not simply charge their first price,” and that as a result “many advertisers bid far higher than what they are willing to pay … because they assume [the auction is] a GSP.”\n\nAccording to the complaint, the truth is that advertisers have not been competing in fair GSP auctions. The complaint alleges that, over the past several years, Amazon’s surcharges have resulted in advertisers paying their own bid amount an increasingly high amount of the time. For Sponsored Products ads, the complaint alleges that the percentage of the time advertisers paid the amount of their bid increased from between 30% and 40% in 2021, to 70% in 2022, and to approximately 80% in 2024 as a result of the surcharges. But Amazon has actively concealed this fact from advertisers to prevent them from lowering their bids, according to the complaint.\n\nThe complaint alleges that Amazon and its senior executives took active steps to conceal its surcharge pricing system from its advertisers, including giving false and misleading answers to advertisers who asked the company directly if it had changed its auction format, so that they would continue to be deceived about how the prices they pay are set. The complaint quotes from Amazon’s internal documents, stating that revealing the surcharges would result in “irrevocable damage to advertiser trust” and a “downward spiral” of advertisers lowering their bids, leading to dramatic losses of revenue for Amazon.\n\nAccording to the complaint, Amazon has continually tested and monitored its customers to increase its prices without getting caught, and, to date, this scheme has been successful. The complaint quotes from one Amazon employee who said that the company’s hidden surcharges are “good for Amazon” because “advertisers must pay more for the same advertising,” and “the benefit to Amazon comes at the cost of advertisers.” \n\nThe Commission vote authorizing staff to file the complaint was 2-0. It was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington. The attorneys on this matter include Jonathan Platt, Darren Lubetzky, Adam Hersh, Vikram Jagadish, Jason Kornmehl and Ishan Shivakumar from the FTC’s Northeast Regional office.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Federal Trade Commission works to promote competition and [protect and educate consumers](https://www.ftc.gov/about-ftc/bureaus-offices/bureau-consumer-protection). The FTC will never demand money, make threats, tell you to transfer money, or promise you a prize. Learn more about consumer topics at [consumer.ftc.gov](https://consumer.ftc.gov/), or report fraud, scams, and bad business practices at [ReportFraud.ftc.gov](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/). Follow the [FTC on social media](https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/stay-connected/social-media), read [consumer alerts](https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts) and the [business blog](https://www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/blog), and [sign up to get the latest FTC news and alerts](/news-events/stay-connected).\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Contact Information\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n### Media Contact\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Office of Public Affairs](mailto:opa@ftc.gov)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOffice of Public Affairs\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n202-326-2180\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Related Cases\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Amazon](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/amazon)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Topics\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[Protecting Consumers](/news-events/topics/truth-advertising/protecting-consumers)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n [**Return to top](#top)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n * [/](/) *\n\n Menu\n\n\n\n## Secondary Menu\n\n\n - [Report Fraud](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/)\n - [Submit Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Search the Legal Library](/legal-library)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Main navigation\n\n\n - [Enforcement](/enforcement)\n - [Cases and Proceedings](/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings)\n - [Premerger Notification Program](/enforcement/premerger-notification-program)\n - [Merger Review](/enforcement/merger-review)\n - [Anticompetitive Practices](/enforcement/anticompetitive-practices)\n - [Rulemaking](/enforcement/rulemaking)\n - [Statutes](/legal-library/browse/statutes)\n - [Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) Oversight](/enforcement/hisa)\n - [Competition and Consumer Protection Guidance Documents](/enforcement/competition-consumer-protection-guidance-documents)\n - [Warning Letters](/legal-library/browse/warning-letters)\n - [Consumer Sentinel Network](/enforcement/consumer-sentinel-network)\n - [Criminal Liaison Unit](/enforcement/criminal-liaison-unit)\n - [FTC Refund Programs](/enforcement/refunds)\n - [Notices of Penalty Offenses](/enforcement/penalty-offenses)\n - [Competition Matters Blog](/enforcement/competition-matters)\n\n\n - [Policy](/policy)\n - [Advocacy and Research](/policy/advocacy-research)\n - [Advisory Opinions](/legal-library/browse/advisory-opinions)\n - [Cooperation Agreements](/legal-library/browse/cooperation-agreements)\n - [Federal Register Notices](/legal-library/browse/federal-register-notices)\n - [Reports](/policy/reports)\n - [Public Comments](/policy/public-comments)\n - [Studies](/policy/studies)\n - [Testimony](/legal-library/browse/testimony)\n - [Policy Statements](/legal-library/browse/policy-statements)\n - [International](/policy/international)\n - [Office of Technology Blog](/policy/advocacy-research/tech-at-ftc)\n\n\n - Advice and Guidance\n - [Consumer Advice](http://consumer.ftc.gov/)\n - [Military Consumer](https://militaryconsumer.gov/)\n - [Consumer.gov](https://consumer.gov/)\n - [Business Guidance](/business-guidance)\n - [Competition Guidance](/advice-guidance/competition-guidance)\n - [Bulk Publications](https://bulkorder.ftc.gov/)\n\n\n - [News and Events](/news-events)\n - [News](/news-events/news)\n - [Events](/news-events/events)\n - [Features](/news-events/features)\n - [Topics](/news-events/topics)\n - [Contests](/news-events/contests)\n - [Stay Connected](/news-events/stay-connected)\n - [Data Spotlight](/news-events/data-visualizations/data-spotlight)\n - [Explore Data](/news-events/explore-data)\n - [Social Media](/news-events/social-media)\n\n\n - [About the FTC](/about-ftc)\n - [Mission](/about-ftc/mission)\n - [History](/about-ftc/history)\n - [Commissioners and Staff](/about-ftc/commissioners-staff)\n - [Bureaus and Offices](/about-ftc/bureaus-offices)\n - [Budget and Strategy](/about-ftc/budget-strategy)\n - [Office of Inspector General](https://oig.ftc.gov)\n - [Careers at the FTC](/about-ftc/careers)\n - [Contact](/about-ftc/contact)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n## Footer\n\n\n - [Privacy Policy](/policy-notices/privacy-policy)\n - [Policy and Notices](/policy-notices)\n - [Accessibility](/policy-notices/accessibility)\n - [FOIA](/foia)\n - [No FEAR Act](/policy-notices/no-fear-act)\n - [Office of Inspector General](/oig)\n - [USA.gov](https://www.usa.gov/)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n[* *](https://www.facebook.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://www.instagram.com/federaltradecommission)\n\n[* *](https://twitter.com/FTC)\n\n[* *](https://www.linkedin.com/company/163780/)\n\n[* *](https://www.youtube.com/ftcvideos)\n\n[* *](/news-events/stay-connected/ftc-rss-feeds)", "content_length": 30226, "content_type": "text/html", "description": "Today, 22 states joined the Federal Trade Commission in filing suit against Amazon, alleging that the company engaged in deceptive and unfair practices that secretly inflated prices in its online s", "status_code": 200, "success": true, "title": "FTC, States Sue Amazon Over Secret Ad Surcharge Scheme | Federal Trade Commission", "url": "https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/08/ftc-states-sue-amazon-over-secret-ad-surcharge-scheme"}, "status": "completed", "tool_name": "web_fetch"}

web_fetch/045_recent_ftc_actions-2

Checks

Tool Timing

Conversation

FTC enforcement actions, Aug 28–Sep 11 · Table

Normalized evidence