Consumer Advocate 

The Attorney General’s Office works every day to protect Ohio families from unfair and deceptive business practices and scams. The office accepts and handles consumer complaints through an informal dispute resolution process to assist consumers and businesses in reaching a mutual agreement to resolve issues.

In 2013, the top 10 most frequent consumer complaint categories were:

1. Motor vehicles
2. Collections, credit reporting, or financial services
3. Do Not Call violations
4. Internet, phone, or TV services
5. Household goods or property improvement
6. Professional services
7. Shopping, food, or beverage
8. Health and beauty
9. Sweepstakes and prizes
10. Mortgage

Among motor vehicle complaints, consumers reported the most problems with used car sales and obtaining titles. Attorney General Mike DeWine reminds consumers to contact his office if a car dealership fails to provide a title within 30 days of the sale.
 
Also among the nearly 26,500 total complaints filed in 2013 were 578 complaints involving identity theft, a fast-growing complaint category. Attorney General DeWine launched the Identity Theft Unit in September 2012, so 2013 marked the unit’s first full year in operation. The unit helps identity theft victims rectify the effects of identity theft, such as fraudulently opened accounts or purchases made on existing accounts.
 
Consumers who believe they have been treated unfairly or been the victim of identity theft should contact the Ohio Attorney General’s Office at 800-282-0515 or visit www.OhioAttorneyGeneral.gov for more information.