FTC Investigates OpenAI and Anthropic Over Potential Consumer Harms
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is investigating OpenAI and Anthropic for potential consumer harms, as reported by The New York Times.
New York, NY, September 30, 2026 —
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has reportedly launched an investigation into artificial intelligence companies OpenAI and Anthropic. The probe is focused on potential consumer harms stemming from the companies’ operations and technologies.
The New York Times reported on the investigation, citing sources familiar with the matter. Specific details regarding the nature of the potential consumer harms under scrutiny were not immediately disclosed in the report.
The FTC is a U.S. government agency responsible for protecting consumers and promoting competition. It has the authority to investigate companies for unfair or deceptive business practices.
OpenAI, known for its development of large language models like ChatGPT, and Anthropic, which has developed its own AI systems such as Claude, are prominent players in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence. Both companies are working on advanced AI technologies that are increasingly integrated into consumer-facing products and services.
The investigation by the FTC signifies a growing governmental focus on the ethical implications and potential risks associated with advanced AI technologies. Consumer harms can encompass a wide range of issues, including data privacy violations, deceptive advertising, unfair competition, or other impacts that negatively affect consumers.
The investigation is ongoing, and the specific scope and potential outcomes remain to be determined. The companies involved have not yet issued public statements regarding the FTC’s inquiry, according to the initial report. Further details are expected as the investigation progresses.
Story summarized from the original created by Google News on news.google.com, see more information here.
