(COLUMBUS, Ohio) — Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost announced today that Ohio, alongside 49 other states, has reached a significant $10.25 million settlement with the largest wireless carriers in the United States. This resolution stems from investigations into deceptive and misleading advertising practices by AT&T Mobility, Cricket Wireless, T-Mobile USA, Verizon Wireless, and TracFone Wireless.
Under the terms of the settlements, Ohio is slated to receive over $478,000, with the aim of addressing concerns surrounding false promises made to consumers regarding wireless services.
“In a time when our reliance on phones for connectivity is paramount, it’s imperative that telecommunications companies uphold honesty and transparency,” stated Yost. “Ohioans deserve accurate information from their wireless carriers, and this agreement ensures that they will receive just that.”
Key provisions of the settlements require the wireless carriers to implement changes in their advertising and business practices. This includes clarifying the use of “unlimited” data claims, providing transparency regarding “free” phone offers, and disclosing conditions for incentives related to switching carriers.
Among the stipulations, the carriers are mandated to:
- Ensure that all future advertisements are truthful, accurate, and non-misleading.
- Transparently disclose limitations on “unlimited” data plans.
- Clearly communicate incentives for switching carriers.
- Disclose all material terms and conditions for consumers to obtain “free” devices or services.
- Explicitly state when an offer involves a lease agreement.
- Substantiate claims of cost savings with clear comparisons.
- Appoint a dedicated employee to handle consumer complaints from Attorneys General offices.
- Train customer service staff to adhere to the terms of the agreements.
The agreements aim to bring greater clarity and transparency to the wireless industry, ensuring that consumers are better informed about the services they are purchasing.
To view Ohio’s agreement with AT&T Mobility and Cricket Wireless, click here.
To view Ohio’s agreement with T-Mobile, click here.
To view Ohio’s agreement with Cellco dba Verizon Wireless and TracFone, click here.
