Questions: Which of the following laws or agencies protects the public from various forms of investment fraud? Securities and Exchange Commission Truth in Lending Act Federal Trade Commission Civil Rights Act

The answer is Securities and Exchange Commission.

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is a U.S. government agency responsible for enforcing federal securities laws and regulating the securities industry, the nation's stock and options exchanges, and other related activities and organizations. The SEC's primary mission is to protect investors, maintain fair, orderly, and efficient markets, and facilitate capital formation. It plays a crucial role in protecting the public from investment fraud by ensuring transparency and fairness in the securities markets.

The Truth in Lending Act (TILA) is a federal law designed to promote informed use of consumer credit by requiring disclosures about its terms and cost. It does not specifically address investment fraud but rather focuses on consumer credit transactions, such as loans and credit cards.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is a U.S. government agency that aims to protect consumers and ensure a strong competitive market by enforcing antitrust and consumer protection laws. While the FTC does address some forms of fraud, its primary focus is on consumer protection and competition, not specifically on investment fraud.

The Civil Rights Act is a landmark piece of legislation in the United States that outlaws discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. It does not pertain to investment fraud or the regulation of financial markets.