According to the FTC, EchoMetrix sold a software program — Sentry Parental Controls — that let parents view their children's online activities, like chat conversations, instant messaging, and web history. What the company didn't disclose adequately is that they allegedly fed that information into a database they turned around and sold to marketers. To settle the case, EchoMetrix agreed not to use or share the information it got through its Sentry program — or any similar program — for any purpose other than allowing registered users to access their accounts. For more information about kids' online privacy, visit OnGuard Online.

The Federal Trade Commission sent warning letters to four marketers of caffeinated alcohol drinks urging them to review the way they market these drinks because they may be violating federal law. The letters noted recent incidents that suggest that alcohol with added caffeine presents unusual risks to health and safety, particularly for young adults. The Food and Drug Administration simultaneously announced that it is sending letters to the same four companies warning that caffeine is an "unsafe food additive" as used in their products.

Beginning January 2011, foreclosure relief companies will not be allowed to charge a fee for their services until their homeowner clients accept a written offer from the mortgage lender or servicer. The FTC says the new rule will protect struggling homeowners from companies that charge big fees before they make good on promises to negotiate a loan modification or other foreclosure relief. The FTC and state and federal law enforcement partners have brought hundreds of cases against such companies, including many that pretend to be affiliated with the government. Check out the press release to learn other requirements of the rule. Homeowners: visit ftc.gov/YourHome for more information.

At the request of the FTC, a court recently shut down an international robocall ring that allegedly defrauded nearly 13,000 people out of almost $13 million. The robocallers promised to reduce credit card interest rates for a fee of $995 and to give refunds to customers who didn't save at least $2,500. According to the FTC, the defendants failed to lower interest rates, didn't save customers the promised $2,500, and didn't provide refunds. When disappointed customers called to complain, the robocallers had disappeared. To learn more about settling credit card debts, check out this FTC alert.

The FTC required Simon Property Group, the outlet mall owner, to sell property and modify leases to settle charges that its $2.3 billion merger with Prime Outlets threatened competition in certain local markets. According to the FTC, the deal could have raised rents in outlet malls in Ohio, Illinois, and Florida. To settle the charges, Simon agreed to sell one outlet center in Ohio, and remove radius restrictions in Chicago and Orlando so tenants there also can lease at nearby outlet centers.