Paid Partnership Problems: Uptick in Influencer Class Actions and NAD Scrutiny
As influencer marketing continues to dominate social media, the legal risks are catching up. In two recent class action lawsuits, companies and their social media influencers are facing allegations of deceptive advertising. Viewed in conjunction with a string of decisions coming out of the National Advertising Division (NAD), these cases reflect a trend of increasing scrutiny around influencer promotion and the question of whether consumers are being properly informed of these partnerships.
Cut to the Chase: FTC Trims Staff but Keeps Enforcement Focus
On May 15, Federal Trade Commission (FTC) chairman Andrew Ferguson testified before the House Appropriations Committee in support of the FTC’s budget request. His testimony provides insight into the agency’s downsizing and its strategic enforcement priorities moving forward.
President Trump Signs Take It Down Act into Law
On May 19, 2025, President Trump signed into law the Take It Down Act. The new law imposes strict takedown obligations and creates new civil and criminal liabilities for individuals and platforms that distribute nonconsensual intimate images (NCII).
The FTC Defers Compliance Deadline for Updated Negative Option Rule to July 14—A Fast VAST Update
The Federal Trade Commission voted to defer the compliance deadline for the amended Negative Option Rule by 60 days. The Commission issued a statement on the new deadline.
FTC Staff Issues Guidance Ahead of New Rule Targeting Deceptive Fees
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) published a set of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) aimed at helping businesses and consumers understand the agency’s Rule on Unfair or Deceptive Fees, which takes effect on May 12, 2025. The new guidance signals the FTC’s continued focus on ensuring price transparency in industries where hidden fees have become common—and increasingly controversial.