• The FTC has decided not to challenge Google’s acquisition of mobile advertising network company Admob, determining that the acquisition was unlikely to harm competition in the marketplace. In a statement explaining its decision, the FTC relied on Apple’s move to launch a competing mobile ad network as grounds to permit the acquisition. Apple recently acquired Quattro Wireless and used it to launch iAd service which, combined with Apple’s control over the iPhone, leaves Apple poised to become a strong competitor in the mobile advertising market, according to the FTC. The press release on the decision can be found here. The FTC’s statement can be found here.
  • The FTC’s Red Flag Rules are scheduled to take effect June 1, 2010. The Red Flag Rules require “creditors,” which include companies that invoice for goods or services (including telecommunications companies), to develop and implement a written Identity Theft Prevention Program designed to detect and prevent identity theft. Businesses that have not yet developed a written Program are encouraged to do so before the June 1, 2010 enforcement date. A FAQ prepared by the FTC regarding the rules can be found here.