FTC Eyes 'Knowingly' Clause to Crack Down on Impersonation Scams
Published Date: 1/29/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The Federal Trade Commission got a petition asking to make impersonation rules clearer and tougher by adding a 'knowingly did it' requirement. This change would help protect both consumers and businesses from fake impersonators. People have until February 28, 2025, to share their thoughts, and no immediate costs or changes happen until the rule is finalized.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Consumers: Stronger impersonation protection
The petition asks the FTC to amend 16 CFR 461 to remove vague wording and add a scienter (a 'knowingly did it') requirement for impersonation rules, which the petition says would help safeguard consumers from fake impersonators. The Commission published the petition and is accepting comments through February 28, 2025.
Businesses: Clearer rules against impersonators
The petition requests amending 16 CFR 461 to clarify vague terms and add a scienter ('knowingly did it') element for government and business impersonation rules to help safeguard businesses from fake impersonators. The petition is on the public record and the FTC is taking comments until February 28, 2025.
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Key Dates
Related Federal Register Documents
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