How to Report False Advertising: Stop Misleading Business Claims

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Last verified: June 2026 All contact numbers, websites, and procedures confirmed current.

What Counts as False Advertising?

False advertising includes any misleading claim about a product or service — fake discounts, hidden fees, bait-and-switch pricing, unproven health claims, or products that do not match what was advertised. Both federal and state laws protect consumers from deceptive marketing.

Where to Report False Advertising

1. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) — Primary

Website: ReportFraud.ftc.gov
Phone: 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357)

The FTC enforces truth-in-advertising laws nationwide. File online 24/7 — reports are shared with over 3,000 law enforcement partners.

2. State Attorney General

Every state AG has a consumer protection division. Find yours at NAAG.org. State AGs can sue businesses that deceive consumers in your state.

3. Better Business Bureau (BBB)

Website: BBB.org/file-a-complaint

BBB complaints are forwarded to the business and often get faster responses for local companies. See our full BBB complaint guide.

4. Industry-Specific Agencies

Financial products: CFPB at consumerfinance.gov/complaint
Food & health claims: FDA at fda.gov
Telecom ads: FCC at consumercomplaints.fcc.gov

Step-by-Step: How to Report False Advertising

Save the evidence — screenshots of the ad, website pages, emails, TV/radio recordings, social media posts, and flyers. Include dates.
Document the discrepancy — what was promised vs. what you received. Keep receipts and contracts.
File with the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov — select “Something else” or “Online shopping” and describe the false claim.
Report to your state AG — most states have online consumer complaint portals.
File a BBB complaint if the business is local or you want direct company response.

Common False Advertising Examples

“50% off” sales where the original price was never actually charged
Products labeled “organic” or “all-natural” without certification
Hidden subscription fees after a “free trial”
Before/after photos that are digitally altered
Services advertised at one price, charged at another
Fake review counts or paid reviews presented as organic

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I report false advertising anonymously?

Yes. The FTC accepts anonymous reports. You do not need to have purchased the product — seeing a misleading ad is enough to file.

Is false advertising a crime?

It can be. The FTC and state AGs can impose fines and require refunds. Repeated or egregious deception can lead to lawsuits and criminal charges in some states.

What is bait-and-switch advertising?

Bait-and-switch is advertising a product at a low price to attract customers, then pressuring them to buy a more expensive alternative. It is illegal under FTC rules — report it immediately.

Can I sue for false advertising?

You may have grounds for a lawsuit in small claims or civil court depending on your state’s laws and your damages. This guide covers agency reporting — you may want to consult a legal professional for private action.

How long does an FTC false advertising investigation take?

FTC investigations vary from months to years. Individual refunds are not guaranteed, but your report contributes to enforcement actions that can stop the practice for all consumers.

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Independent resource — not a government site. Last reviewed: June 2026.