FTC warns about ‘fake reviews’ in letters that could portend enforcement push

FTC warns about ‘fake reviews’ in letters that could portend enforcement push

The US Federal Trade Commission warned 10 companies during the holiday shopping season that they could face lawsuits and hefty fines if they “try to game the review system” with fake testimonials – signaling stepped-up enforcement of its updated Endorsement Guides could be imminent in 2026.

FTC Issues First Warning Letters Under Consumer Review Rule: What Affiliate Managers Need to Know

The Federal Trade Commission has issued warning letters to ten companies for potential violations of its Consumer Review Rule, marking the agency’s first enforcement actions since the regulation took effect in October 2024. The recent December 22nd update signalled that the FTC is prepared to pursue civil penalties of up to $53,088 per violation against programs using fake reviews, incentivised testimonials, or deceptive review practices. As we…