Which agency is described as preventing fraudulent and deceptive practices by businesses and enforcing laws to ensure a competitive marketplace?

• A. Federal Trade Commission
• B. Food and Drug Administration
• C. Environmental Protection Agency
• D. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

Answer: (A)

Protecting consumers and maintaining a fair, competitive marketplace is the focus. The agency described is the Federal Trade Commission, whose core role is to stop fraudulent and deceptive business practices and to enforce laws that promote competition. It tackles misleading advertising, unfair competition, and antitrust issues to keep markets open and honest. Other agencies handle different areas—the FDA oversees foods and drugs, the EPA regulates environmental protection, and the NHTSA focuses on vehicle safety—so the description aligns with the FTC’s mission.