Ellen Rosenblum, Oregon attorney general
Telecommunications companies, imposters as well as auto sales and repair companies topped the list of consumer complaints filed with the Oregon Department of Justice.
Oregon Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum has released the department’s annual Top Ten Consumer Complaints list that was compiled by the more than 6,500 written consumer complaints.
Telecommunications companies racked up the most complaints with 910, followed by imposter scams at 876. In third was auto sales and repair companies at 863. Other industries that made the list include finance, medical services, travel, real estate, towing, construction and insurance. The full list can be found here.
A statement announcing the list noted that construction contractors made the list for the first time after it drew 145 complaints. The statement advised consumers to visit the Construction Contractors Board website or call 503-378-4621 to recognize any potential problems before hiring a contractor.
According to the statement, the Oregon Department of Justice’s Consumer Protection Section recovered more than $1.29 million for consumers and small businesses throughout the state. One of those included a consumer in Astoria who received a $2,500 refund after complaining that a company failed to follow through on a service plan.
“We don’t care if somebody was ripped off for $15 dollars, or $1,500 dollars—no consumer should be taken advantage of by a business,” said Rosenblum in a statement. “Fortunately, we have an entire team who can contact the company on your behalf, request more information, and if necessary, open a case to help you get your money back.”
Consumers who think they’ve fallen victim to a fraud or scam can contact the Oregon Department of Justice online at www.oregonconsumer.gov or call our hotline at 1-877-877-9392.
Contact reporter Jake Thomas at 503-575-1251 or [email protected] or @jakethomas2009.
