FTC launches inquiry into Big Tech censorship: A new chapter in the battle for free speech
By willowt // 2025-02-26
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  • The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), under Chairman Andrew Ferguson, has launched a public inquiry to understand how major technology platforms deny or degrade users' access to services based on content or affiliations, aiming to address the issue of Big Tech censorship.
  • The FTC emphasizes that censorship by tech firms is not just "un-American" but could be illegal, as these firms often employ opaque and unpredictable procedures to censor users without offering appeals.
  • The FTC has issued an RFI, inviting public comments on tech platforms' censorship practices, particularly from individuals who have experienced bans or demonetization, and tech employees who have witnessed such practices.
  • The inquiry is part of a broader debate about Big Tech censorship, fueled by events like the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack and the resulting bans of conservative voices, and reflects concerns about the concentration of power in large tech companies.
  • The FTC's investigation could lead to new regulations or enforcement actions, potentially reshaping the digital landscape to protect free speech and fair competition, aligning with policymakers' growing recognition of the need to check Big Tech's power.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), under the leadership of Chairman Andrew Ferguson, has taken a significant step towards addressing the growing concern of Big Tech censorship. The FTC has launched a public inquiry aimed at understanding how major technology platforms deny or degrade users' access to services based on the content of their speech or affiliations. This move marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle to protect free speech and ensure fair competition in the digital space. In an official statement, the FTC emphasized that censorship by technology platforms is not just "un-American" but potentially illegal. Tech firms often employ opaque and unpredictable internal procedures to censor users, sometimes without offering them the opportunity to appeal these decisions. Such practices can harm consumers and stifle competition, leading to a less vibrant and diverse online environment. “Tech firms should not be bullying their users. This inquiry will help the FTC better understand how these firms may have violated the law by silencing and intimidating Americans for speaking their minds,” Chairman Ferguson stated in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

A request for information: Public input at the forefront

The FTC's initial step in this investigation is the issuance of a Request for Information (RFI), which invites public comments on the impact of tech platforms' censorship practices. The Commission is particularly interested in hearing from individuals who have experienced bans, shadow bans, demonetization, or other forms of online censorship. Additionally, tech company employees who have witnessed such practices are encouraged to submit reports. The RFI is a critical tool for the FTC to gather comprehensive data and insights that will inform any subsequent formal investigations. Public comments will help the agency better understand the scope and nature of the problem and assess whether tech platforms are engaging in unfair or deceptive acts or practices, or anti-competitive behavior. The deadline for submitting comments is May 21, 2025. Once submitted, comments will be publicly posted on Regulations.gov, although a private reporting option is available via ReportFraud.ftc.gov for those who prefer it.

Historical context: A longstanding battle for digital liberty

The FTC's move is the latest in a series of efforts to address the issue of Big Tech censorship. For several years, Congress has conducted numerous investigations into the effects of tech platforms' moderation policies on free speech and small businesses. These investigations have highlighted the need for greater transparency and accountability in how tech companies handle user content. One of the most significant events that fueled the debate was the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. Following the incident, President Donald Trump was banned from several major social media platforms, including Twitter, YouTube and Facebook (now part of Meta). This action sparked widespread discussion and criticism, with conservatives alleging that tech companies were unfairly targeting conservative voices. Trump eventually settled lawsuits over the issue with Meta and Twitter, now known as X. The FTC's inquiry also aligns with broader concerns about the concentration of power in the hands of a few large tech companies. Advocates for free speech and competition argue that the lack of diversity in the tech industry has enabled these companies to implement policies that favor their own interests at the expense of users and smaller competitors.

Implications for the future

The FTC's investigation has the potential to reshape the landscape of online speech and competition. By inviting public input, the agency is taking a democratic approach to addressing a complex and contentious issue. The findings from this inquiry could lead to new regulations or enforcement actions that hold tech companies accountable for their practices. Chairman Ferguson's commitment to this issue reflects a growing recognition among policymakers that the power of Big Tech must be checked to protect fundamental American values such as free speech and fair competition. As the public and private sectors continue to grapple with the challenges posed by digital platforms, the FTC's inquiry represents a crucial step towards ensuring that the internet remains a space where all voices can be heard. For now, the FTC is focused on gathering information and listening to the experiences of those who have been affected by tech platform censorship. The outcome of this inquiry will be closely watched by stakeholders on all sides of the debate, with the hope that it will lead to a more equitable and transparent digital environment. Sources include: ReclaimTheNet.com FTC.gov Forutne.com
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