Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell released the annual Consumer Advocacy Report on Mar. 2 in recognition of National Consumer Protection Week, highlighting her office’s efforts to protect consumers and address challenges such as scams and junk fees in 2025.
The report is intended to inform residents about available resources and raise awareness of issues affecting consumers across Massachusetts. It also underscores the importance of state-level consumer protection, especially as federal oversight has lessened.
“I am proud to release this year’s Consumer Advocacy Report, which shows how our office is leading the way on consumer and civil rights protections from cracking down on hidden junk fees to obtaining a $165 million judgment against health insurance companies that misled consumers,” said Attorney General Campbell. “As the federal government continues to step away from its responsibility to protect consumers, state attorneys general are stepping up. My office will continue to support residents, defend their rights and ensure no one is exploited – especially those too often left behind.”
In 2025, the Attorney General’s Office (AGO) received more than 47,000 hotline calls and over 24,000 complaints—a record high. The AGO secured over $11 million in savings and refunds for individual consumers through advocacy efforts, along with more than $187 million in restitution, penalties, and debt relief through judgments and settlements. Health care services generated the most complaints for the third consecutive year with 1,425 cases reported. Landlord-tenant complaints rose sharply by 34% compared to the previous year.
The AGO introduced new regulations banning businesses from advertising misleading prices followed by mandatory extra fees starting September 2025. The office also published its first ‘Know Your Rights’ guide for homebuyers addressing appraisal discrimination based on race or national origin.
To mark National Consumer Protection Week (March 2–6), several educational events are scheduled across Massachusetts including presentations on energy billing, fraud prevention workshops, webinars on solar energy options, tenant rights training sessions, scam prevention talks focusing on artificial intelligence threats, and senior-focused trainings.
Campbell said her office remains committed to advancing economic opportunity and consumer justice throughout Massachusetts.
