Violations of no-call list top consumer complaints

Violations of no-call list top consumer complaints

Violations of the state's No-Call Law were once again the top consumer complaint received during 2019 by the Missouri Attorney General's Office.

Last year, 111,530 consumer complaints came into the AG's office which has dedicated staff to take complaints and work to mediate complaints between complainants and businesses or individuals.

Out of that total, 43,566 complaints where regarding No-Call violations and illegal telemarketing calls. Complaints involve phone calls to Missouri residents by businesses or organizations soliciting the purchase of goods or services, despite that resident signing up for Missouri's No-Call list.

The second most calls, 2,171, were complaints regarding mail and phone solicitations for publications and subscriptions. These complaints generally involve the receipt of mail and phone solicitations regarding sweepstakes, lottery and other solicitation scams. Most involved scammers promising a valuable prize or high-dollar award to entice consumers to send money, buy overpriced products or services, or contribute to a phony charity. Some consumers reported receiving a mailer that looks like an invoice or bill demanding payment.

Consumers who wish to file a complaint can do so online at ago.mo.gov or by calling the Consumer Protection Hotline at 800-392-8222.