The Federal Trade Commission works to ensure that the United States markets are vigorous, efficient and free of restrictions that harm consumers. To ensure the smooth operation of free market systems, the FTC enforces federal consumer protection laws that prevent fraud, deception and unfair business practices. The Commission also enforces federal antitrust laws that prohibit anticompetitive mergers as well as other business practices that restrict competition and harm consumers. Whether combating telemarketing fraud, Internet scams or price-fixing schemes, the FTC s primary mission is to protect consumers. In addition, the Commission conducts economic research and analysis to support its law enforcement efforts and to contribute to the policy deliberations of the Congress, the Executive Branch, other independent agencies, as well as state and local governments. The Federal Trade Commission was created in 1914 when President Woodrow Wilson signed the FTC Act into law.