Consumers Raise Their Voices: A Record‑Breaking Year of Complaints

The Attorney General’s office received an unprecedented wave of complaints from Bay State residents last year, marking the highest volume ever. Over 47, 000 calls were logged on the consumer hotline and more than 24, 000 formal complaints were filed. This upsurge follows a previous year’s numbers of roughly 41, 000 calls and 23, 000 complaints. Health‑care services remain the most frequent source of frustration, matching last year’s figures. However, grievances about landlord‑tenant relationships have surged by more than 30 percent. The office attributes this jump to recent legal updates that seal eviction records and cap broker fees, as well as new guidelines issued by the Attorney General.In reaction to these complaints, the office secured over $11 million in direct compensation for affected consumers. Beyond that, it achieved more than $187 million through court rulings and settlements, including a notable $165‑million judgment against insurance companies that misled policyholders. The AG’s annual Consumer Advocacy Report, released during National Consumer Protection Week, highlights the agency’s role in fighting hidden fees and protecting civil rights. To build on this momentum, statewide events will educate residents about their legal protections and how to steer clear of scams.