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

Massachusetts, USAMonday, March 2, 2026

The Attorney General’s office recorded an unprecedented wave of complaints from Bay State residents last year, marking the highest volume ever.

  • Consumer Hotline Calls: 47,000+
  • Formal Complaints Filed: 24,000+

These figures surpass the previous year’s numbers of roughly 41,000 calls and 23,000 complaints.

Key Complaint Categories

Category Last Year Current Year
Health‑care Services 47,000+ calls 47,000+ calls
Landlord‑Tenant Issues +30% surge

The sharp rise in landlord‑tenant complaints is attributed to recent legal updates that seal eviction records, cap broker fees, and new guidelines issued by the Attorney General.

Financial Impact

  • Direct Compensation Secured: Over $11 million
  • Court Rulings & Settlements: >$187 million, including a $165 million judgment against insurance companies that misled policyholders.

Consumer Advocacy Highlights

During National Consumer Protection Week, the AG’s annual Consumer Advocacy Report underscored:

  • The agency’s role in fighting hidden fees
  • Protecting civil rights across the state

Looking Ahead

Statewide events will educate residents on legal protections and strategies to avoid scams, building on this year’s momentum.

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