You've Been Heard
A survey by the Consumer Federation of America and the North American Consumer Protection Investigators breaks down the top ten consumer complaints. (Reuters)
Auto
Misrepresentation of prices, inventory and deals in advertising for new or used cars topped the list along with faulty repairs and leasing and towing disputes.
Credit/Debt
Debt collection was one of five fastest-growing complaints, according to the survey. Industries involving billing and fee disputes, mortgage modifications and credit repair debt relief services also saw numerous complaints. (REUTERS)
Home Improvement/Construction
Consumers complained about subpar repairs and failure to start or complete the job. (REUTERS)
Retail Sales
Shoppers complained of being hit by false and misleading advertising, defective merchandise and problems with rebates, coupons, gift cards and gift certificates. (REUTERS)
Utilities
Service problems or billing disputes with phone, cable, satellite, Internet, electric and gas service topped consumers complaints.
Services
Consumers complained of misrepresentations of what work will be completed, shoddy workmanship and failure to have required licenses.
(Tie) Internet Sales/Landlord/Tenant:
Shoppers complained of misrepresentation or other deceptive selling practices and failure to deliver online purchases after purchase. Landlord/Tenant: Unhealthy or unsafe conditions, failure to make repairs or provide promised amenities, deposit and rent disputes, illegal eviction tactic were among the list of complaints.
Fraud
Consumers were hit with fake sweepstakes and lotteries, work-at-home schemes, grant offers, fake check scams, and frauds targeting older individuals.
Real Estate
Misrepresentation of timeshare sales and re-sales, retirement communities and assisted living facilities were among the top complaints surrounding real estate fraud. (REUTERS)
(Tie) Household Goods/Home Solicitations
Misrepresentation of products, failure to deliver and faulty repairs in connection with furniture or appliances were hot-button issues with consumers. Home Solicitations: complaints included misrepresentations or failure to deliver in door-to-door, telemarketing and mail solicitations.