FTC: AI Search Engine Duped Users with "Rampant Deception"

U.S. federal regulators have accused a major AI search engine company of systematically deceiving consumers. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) says the company operates hundreds of websites designed to look like genuine search engines. These sites provide AI-generated answers to user queries. However, the FTC alleges the sites were built to trick users. Officials claim thousands of people were unknowingly signed up for costly monthly subscriptions. Many found it extremely difficult to cancel the charges. The agency describes the company's practices as "rampant consumer deception." It has taken legal action to stop the operation and seek penalties. This case highlights growing regulatory scrutiny over how AI services are marketed and sold to the public.