The ATF is a federal agency that protects communities from violent criminals, criminal organizations, the illegal use of firearms, explosives, bombings, acts of terrorism, and the illegal sale of alcohol and tobacco products. The ATF was first formed to make sure all taxes were being paid on the sale of Alcohol and Tobacco in the United States. All questions for the ATF should be directed to the main website or the main phone number. The office in Lansdale is not open to the public and provides no services to people who walk in.