---
title: The FTC Unfairness Policy
date: 2005-01-01T00:00:00-05:00
author: Import Bot
canonical_url: "https://www.kelleydrye.com/viewpoints/client-advisories/the-ftc-unfairness-policy"
section: Client Advisories
---
# The FTC Unfairness Policy

 January 1, 2005

Kelley Drye Client Advisory

 

 

 

 

 

 

Section 5 of the FTC Act prohibits unfair and deceptive acts or practices in or affecting commerce. The FTC’s definition of ​“unfairness” is set forth in a December 17, 1980 letter from the FTC to Senators Wendell H. Ford and John C. Danforth, drafted in response to the Senators’ inquiry as to the FTC’s jurisdiction over ​“unfair or deceptive acts or practices.”

 

 

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