Companies applied misinformation labeling against opposing political opinions.
The Federal Trade Commission and several states lodged a complaint against several advertising agencies for colluding to institute “brand safety” standards that targeted certain ideologies. Companies allegedly used misinformation labeling they created to demonetize and suppress political opinions that they viewed as unfavorable. The complaint said that these practices reduced competition and free speech in the ad market, causing damage and skewing viewpoints promoted to the public.
“The ad agencies’ brand-safety conspiracy turned competition in the market for ad-buying services on its head,” said FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson. “The antitrust laws guarantee participation in a market free from conduct, such as economic boycotts, that distort the fundamental competitive pressures that promote lower prices, higher quality products, and increased innovation.
The companies have agreed to apply changes as outlined in an FTC order to avoid charges, and the alleged company collaboration for market manipulation should now cease.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Chairman Ferguson as he leverages FTC authority against companies that would upend the free marketplace and free speech.
- For U.S. officials as they seek to ensure organizations comply with the Constitution and federal laws.
Sources: Federal Trade Commission
