The FTC is a federal government agency that regulates business practices and enforces antitrust laws. The FTC not only scrutinizes mergers and acquisitions of large multinational companies but it also is the largest agency which protects consumers from unfair business practices and pursues sham organizations. It also regulates collection agencies and credit bureaus. The FTC does not involve itself directly in individual consumer disputes and it is empowered to take action against companies that seem to be guilty of widespread consumer abuses.