Washington Consumer Protection News

FTC Settles Two Complaints Charging Rebate-Fulfillment Violations

Under the terms of separate consent agreements announced today, the Federal Trade Commission has settled charges against two companies for unfair and deceptive rebate practices. The Commission’s complaint against Soyo, Inc., alleges that most of Soyo’s rebates were delivered late – in some cases, consumers had to wait a year or longer for their checks to arrive. The Commission’s complaint against the InPhonic alleges that, in connection with its advertised rebate offers, among other things, the company failed to provide promised documents needed to obtain rebates, to send out rebate checks in the time promised, and to disclose adequately certain material terms and conditions prior to purchase. The settlements bar the companies from similar violations in the future and require them to pay outstanding rebates to affected consumers.

“When it comes to rebates, protecting consumers’ rights is a Commission priority,” said Lydia Parnes, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “Rebate terms must be disclosed up-front and clearly, and rebates must be delivered on time.” Read more at ftc.gov.

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