FTC is refunding Consumers Misled by Publishers Clearing House

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) – The Federal Trade Commission(FTC) is sending more than $18 million in refunds to consumers misled by deceptive marketing practices from Publishers Clearing House.

The FTC said 281,724 people will receive checks following a settlement with Publishers Clearing House, which agreed to pay $18.5 million and change its business practices. Most affected consumers were older or lower-income and were led to believe they had to buy products to enter sweepstakes or improve their chances of winning.

The FTC also accused Publishers Clearing House of using misleading email subject lines that appeared to relate to official documents like tax forms. The company charged deceptive shipping fees and advertised orders as “risk-free,” even though consumers had to pay to return items for a refund.

The refunds go to people who bought products after clicking on emails the FTC said were deceptive. Checks must be cashed within 90 days. Consumers with questions can contact the refund administrator, Rust Consulting, at 888-516-0774 or visit PCHRefunds.com.

In 2024, FTC actions returned more than $338 million to consumers nationwide. The Commission reminds the public it never asks for money or personal account information to issue refunds.

For more information, visit consumer.ftc.gov or report fraud at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.