Recognize an FTC Impersonator

When a natural disaster strikes — like a hurricane, wildfire, severe storm, or flood — being prepared can make all the difference. This National Preparedness Month, make a plan (or review your existing plan) and take steps to protect yourself and your household from disaster-related scams.

The Children’s Online Privacy Protection Rule (COPPA Rule) gives parents control over the online collection of their children’s personal information. Before a website or app collects personal information from a child under the age of 13, it must notify the parents and get their approval. Under a settlement with the FTC, Disney has agreed to pay a $10 million penalty for violating the COPPA Rule.

August 31 is International Overdose Awareness Day — a day to commemorate those lost to a drug overdose, support their surviving families, and dedicate resources to end overdose. One way the FTC is working to help people and families dealing with substance use disorders is by cracking down on companies that try to manipulate or deceive people seeking treatment. If you search online to find help, know that dishonest businesses could use search result scams to steer you their way. Here are some things to know when searching online for drug treatment help.