The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is inviting public comment on a petition from Scott Zuckerman, CEO of a company previously involved in marketing "stalkerware" apps. Zuckerman seeks to vacate or modify the FTC's order that bans monitoring products and services and mandates an information-security program.
In 2021, the FTC filed a complaint against Support King, LLC, operating as SpyFone.com, and Zuckerman. The agency alleged they sold apps enabling purchasers to secretly monitor devices without the owner's knowledge. These apps collected data such as photos, text messages, web histories, location details, and physical movements. SpyFone provided instructions on bypassing security settings on devices where these apps were installed.
A settlement order prohibited Support King and Zuckerman from offering or promoting any surveillance app or service. It also required them to establish an information-security program with biennial third-party assessments to ensure compliance with the order's requirements.
Zuckerman claims that Support King has permanently closed and argues that the FTC's order places an "excessive and unnecessary burden" on him personally. He asserts that compliance costs have hindered his ability to expand other businesses still subject to the order’s terms. In his petition, he requests either:
- Complete vacation of the order.
- Modification of the order to remove all reporting, audit, and compliance obligations affecting his current businesses including a restaurant and tourism ventures.
The public can submit comments on this petition until August 19, 2025. Submission instructions are available on the docket at Regulations.gov. Following the comment period closure, the Commission will vote on how to address the petition.
The FTC continues its mission to promote competition while protecting consumers through education. It advises caution against fraudulent activities and provides resources for reporting scams at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
