FTC Strengthens Rules to Protect Kids' Privacy on Apps and Sites

2026-20143, Rule on Impersonation of Government and Businesses

The FTC is planning new rules to stop scams where fake websites or social media accounts pretend to be the government or real businesses to trick people out of money. This affects online platforms like search engines and social media sites, which may have to change how they handle these impersonation scams. The FTC wants your thoughts by November 30, 2026, before making any final decisions.

2026-20078, Petition for Rulemaking of Malik Tony Singleton

Malik Tony Singleton asked the Federal Trade Commission to create new rules that protect consumers from tricky business practices, especially around automated decisions and keeping records. This could affect anyone who buys stuff or uses services that rely on computers to make choices. People have until October 30, 2026, to share their thoughts, and these changes might make companies more honest and clear, possibly saving consumers money and hassle.

2026-19598, Rules of Practice

The FTC is updating its rules to drop a confusing post-job approval step for former employees, making it easier to hire experts like economists and tech pros. They’re keeping ethics rules but clarifying what happens if someone breaks them. These changes kick in on September 24, 2026, with no new costs, just smoother, fairer rules for everyone involved.

2026-19597, Rules of Practice

The FTC is updating its rules to make things clearer and smoother for everyone involved. These changes affect how staff handle information requests, assign judges, and manage public records, with some new deadlines and procedures starting September 24, 2026. No big money changes here—just smarter, faster government work for businesses and the public.

2026-19289, FleetCor Technologies; Analysis of Proposed Consent Order To Aid Public Comment

FleetCor Technologies is facing charges for unfair business practices, and the FTC has proposed a deal to fix these issues. FleetCor must follow new rules to stop these practices, and the public can share their thoughts by October 22, 2026. This agreement aims to protect customers and keep FleetCor honest without any immediate fines mentioned.

2026-18853, Civil Penalty Inflation Adjustments

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) won’t raise any fines in 2026 because the government couldn’t get the inflation data needed to update them. So, businesses and folks facing penalties will see the same fine amounts as in 2025. This freeze kicks in starting September 15, 2026, keeping things steady for now.

Previous: 2025-06826, Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Framework Adjustment 39 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan

Starting in 2025, new rules for Atlantic sea scallop fishing will help protect young scallops and make fishing smarter. Fishermen with certain permits get more flexibility, and some areas will open or close at better times to keep scallops safe and plentiful. These changes aim to stop overfishing and keep the scallop fishery healthy for years to come.

Next: 2025-06610, Air Plan Approval; Connecticut; State Implementation Plan Revisions Required by the 2015 Ozone NAAQS

The EPA is giving a thumbs-up to Connecticut’s updated air plan to meet tougher ozone pollution rules from 2015. This means businesses and new projects in Greater Connecticut must follow cleaner air rules starting now, helping everyone breathe easier. The changes kick in soon and keep Connecticut on track with federal clean air laws without extra costs.