FTC investigates AI developers over potential risks to consumers
The US Federal Trade Commission confirmed an investigation into OpenAI, Anthropic and other AI companies on September 30, 2026, examining potential dangers to consumers.
In short
- The US Federal Trade Commission confirmed an investigation into OpenAI, Anthropic and other AI companies on September 30, 2026, examining potential dangers to consumers.
The US Federal Trade Commission is investigating OpenAI, Anthropic and other artificial intelligence developers over potential risks their technology poses to consumers, the Associated Press reported on September 30, 2026, citing confirmation from the agency.
The inquiry adds regulatory scrutiny to a debate over how increasingly capable AI systems should be supervised. An investigation does not establish that the companies have broken the law.
The Guardian reported that the regulator plans to seek company information and executive testimony. Its report also identified the AI evaluation group METR as part of the information-gathering effort.
The development follows a September 29 meeting at which President Donald Trump and technology executives agreed to voluntary AI standards. That agreement and the FTC inquiry represent separate approaches: industry commitments on development and regulatory examination of possible consumer harm.
