BOSTON — In observance of National Consumer Protection Week, Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell has released the annual Consumer Advocacy Report. The report highlights efforts to safeguard consumers and provides insights into the challenges faced by them in 2024.
“Each year, my office makes it a priority to protect consumers from unfair and deceptive business practices, returning money to impacted consumers and holding bad actors accountable for violating the law,” stated AG Campbell. “I am proud to release this year’s annual Consumer Advocacy Report to showcase our work to ensure economic justice for communities across the Commonwealth.”
The Attorney General's Office (AGO) handles numerous consumer complaints annually on issues such as scams, housing, auto laws, debt collection, healthcare, and student loans. Many complaints are managed by the AGO’s Consumer Advocacy and Response Division (CARD), which assists consumers by providing answers, referrals, dispute resolution with businesses, and information on services.
In 2024, more than 42,000 consumer hotline calls were received along with over 23,000 consumer complaints. The AGO secured over $10 million in savings and refunds through advocacy efforts and more than $194 million through judgments and settlements.
Healthcare services topped consumer complaints for a second consecutive year. Other significant complaint areas included auto sales and landlord-tenant issues. The report also discusses trends related to housing crises and deceptive loans.
The Health Care Division received 1,402 complaints in 2024—a four percent increase from the previous year—highlighting ongoing issues with medical billing and unlicensed insurance providers.
Used car sales remained a major issue with over 900 complaints filed regarding vehicle purchases. Housing-related concerns were spotlighted as well due to high costs and availability challenges addressed by the Affordable Homes Act of 2024.
Additionally featured are developments in manufactured housing communities (MHCs), including an updated guide on community laws released in May 2024. Two Massachusetts Appeals Court decisions clarified residents' rights concerning community purchases if owners decide to sell.
The report includes tips for consumers on various highlighted issues while encouraging vigilance against deceptive practices. Consumers can file complaints online or contact the Attorney General’s Consumer Hotline at 617-727-8400 for assistance.
Several events have been scheduled during National Consumer Protection Week focusing on education about solar energy guidance, unauthorized immigration law practice training, consumer rights discussions among others.
AG Campbell emphasized her commitment to expanding economic opportunities across Massachusetts through strategic plans that advance consumer protection regulations against "junk fees" while enhancing price transparency for consumers.