Oregon led a multi-state investigation that looked into whether Publishers Clearing House misled consumers into believing that making a purchase would increase their chances of winning
Attorney General John Kroger today announced a $3.5 million dollar multi-state settlement with Publishers Clearing House that resolves allegations that the sweepstakes giant misled consumers.
“This settlement will insure that Publishers Clearing House plays by the rules and does not exploit Oregonians,” said Attorney General Kroger.
The $3.5 million agreement resolves allegations that Publishers Clearing House misled consumers in violation of settlements the sweepstakes giant reached with the states in 2000 and 2001.
The settlement filed today in Marion County Circuit Court requires Publishers Clearing House to increase its efforts to inform consumers that making a purchase does not increase their chances of winning. The company, which admitted no wrongdoing, also must hire an ombudsman to review mailings to insure compliance with the settlement.
In addition to Oregon, states participating in the settlement include Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, District of Columbia, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia and Wisconsin.
Senior Assistant Attorney General Thomas Elden handled the case for the Oregon Department of Justice.
Attorney General John Kroger leads the Oregon Department of Justice. The Department’s mission is to fight crime and fraud, protect the environment, improve child welfare, promote a positive business climate, and defend the rights of all Oregonians.
Contact:
Tony Green, (503) 378-6002 tony.green@doj.state.or.us