Attorney General Liz Murrill has announced a $10.25 million settlement involving AT&T Mobility, LLC, Cricket Wireless, LLC, T-Mobile USA, Inc., Cellco Partnership doing business as Verizon Wireless, and TracFone Wireless, Inc. This agreement resolves investigations by state attorneys general into alleged deceptive advertising practices by these wireless carriers.
The settlement addresses misleading advertising practices that included unclear terms regarding "unlimited" data plans, "free" phone offers, monetary incentives for switching networks, and comparisons of wireless carrier plans. The assurance terms require the wireless carriers to ensure future advertisements are truthful and non-misleading.
Specific measures include: accurately marketing "unlimited" data plans without hidden limits; clearly disclosing conditions for "free" phone offers; transparently explaining monetary incentives for switching carriers; clarifying lease agreements for devices; and ensuring any claims of cost savings have a reasonable basis. Additionally, a dedicated employee will be appointed to handle consumer complaints with attorneys general offices.
Attorney General Murrill emphasized the importance of this settlement in protecting consumers from misleading advertising. “Cell phones are an integral part of our daily lives, and this bi-partisan settlement makes it clear that deceptive and misleading advertising will not be tolerated. This settlement further demonstrates the Louisiana Department of Justice’s commitment to protecting Louisiana consumers by providing transparency from their wireless carrier,” she stated.
As part of the multi-jurisdictional settlements, Louisiana will receive $177,113.15.