FTC Probes Alleged Collusion Between Big Tech and Advertising Giants

Red tape over mouth with "FREEDOM" text.

FTC Commissioners Andrew Ferguson and Melissa Holyoak push for an investigation into a potential “censorship cartel,” involving Big Tech and advertising agencies, which could reshape the landscape of free speech and competition online.

At a Glance

The FTC investigates possible monopolistic practices by Big Tech and advertisers.
Investigation aims to address censorship concerns and restore competition.
Republicans express worries about FTC’s strategy and potential bias.
The investigation could set a precedent for handling digital commerce and speech.

FTC’s Anti-Monopoly Efforts

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), led by Commissioners Andrew Ferguson and Melissa Holyoak, is examining a potential “censorship cartel” encompassing key Big Tech players and advertising agencies. Accusations of monopolistic conduct have spurred this action designed to investigate how these entities may unduly regulate online content and advertising. The campaign seeks to bolster FTC’s power to dismantle this network, given its significant threat to free speech and market competition.

House Republicans have voiced strong opposition, critiquing FTC Chair Lina Khan’s legal approach against big tech firms and hinting at perceived biases undermining American economic values. Critics argue that the agency’s focus on high-profile companies post-acquisition signals arbitrary legal actions, potentially harming small businesses.

Political Landscape and FTC Strategy

FTC Chair Lina Khan finds herself in a contentious position as she argues for enhanced regulation to mitigate tech conglomerates’ potential harm. Her stance insists on robust antitrust enforcement as a catalyst for economic growth and shared liberty. However, a legal defeat related to Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard marks one of numerous setbacks accentuating the challenges her approach faces.

Khan’s efforts have been particularly contentious regarding investigations into Amazon’s deceptive subscription practices and Twitter’s privacy concerns. Critics cite motivations beyond regulatory scrutiny, attributing them to excessive governmental influence.

Broader Implications of FTC Actions

FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr has taken steps to probe Big Tech CEOs about their roles in purported widespread censorship, echoing concerns of a coalition between tech, advertising, and governmental spheres. Carr’s accusations extend to organizations like NewsGuard, which faces criticism for biased credibility assessments. Meanwhile, NewsGuard defends its integrity against allegations of censorship.

There is a growing belief that a multi-pronged approach encompassing legislative, outside agency, and civil society actions must curb Big Tech’s grip on discourse. This stance highlights a fundamental concern over unchecked corporate power undermining the republic’s core values. Ensuring accountability and preserving freedom of expression will demand vigilance across political and informational domains.

“It should concern everyone when companies like Facebook and Twitter wield the unchecked power to remove people from platforms that have become indispensable for the speech of billions.” – American Civil Liberties Union’s senior legislative counsel