The FTC may begin an investigation in different ways. Letters from consumers or businesses, Congressional inquiries, or articles on consumer or economic subjects may trigger FTC action.
Investigations are either public or nonpublic.
Generally, FTC investigations are nonpublic in order to protect both the investigation and the company. If the FTC believes a violation of the law occurred, it may attempt to obtain voluntary compliance by entering into a consent order with the company. A company that signs a consent order need not admit that it violated the law, but it must agree to stop the disputed practices outlined in an accompanying complaint. If a consent agreement cannot be reached, the FTC may issue an administrative complaint . If a law violation is found, a cease and desist order or other appropriate relief may be issued.