[HexagonalKitten]

> It is not clear the FTC has this kind of authority to essentially demand "what are your trade secrets and future business plans?"

They do seem to have the legal authority to make life very difficult for and potentially restrict entire actions of these companies. I imagine that if you refused to answer, and that your right to do so was likely to be upheld, that they'd just do what they were going to do before they asked the questions.

Picture this like a chance to talk your way out of trouble. Saying the minimum probably won't be enough.

[s1artibartfast]

And just like the real world, never try to talk your way out of trouble. Never talk to police, remain silent, and get a lawyer. The police aren’t trying to throw you a bone, they are trying to get you to selfincriminate