Attorney General Jackley Reminds South Dakotans of the Benefits of the Consumer Protection Division

PIERRE, S.D.-  Attorney General Marty Jackley is reminding South Dakota consumers to utilize his Consumer Protection Division. The Consumer Protection Division has been implemental in getting resolutions to thousands of consumer complaints each year. The Division works to protect consumers and the legitimate business community by investigating, mediating and litigating cases of consumer fraud. The Division also enforces consumer laws designed to protect the public, including the Deceptive Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Act and statutes relating to buying clubs, telephone solicitation, telemarketing, and sweepstakes. 

The Division handles complaints such as identity theft, internet auctions, door-to-door sales, advertising, paid solicitors/charitable solicitations, new and used vehicle purchases, car repairs, home repair and construction, and more. The Division can also assist with questions regarding landlord/tenant relations, federal credit laws and mail order rules. The Consumer Protection Division also has a long list of referral phone numbers to other state and federal agencies that can provide additional assistance.

The Division cannot represent individuals in private legal suits. However, they do use the complaint process to establish a pattern of conduct that might constitute deceptive trade practices against unscrupulous companies.

As a consumer you have basic rights relating to consumer laws and the Consumer Protection Division can help you better understand those rights.  If you feel you have been a victim of a scam or just trying to find out the legitimacy of a company don’t be afraid to contact the Consumer Protection Division at 1-800-300-1986 or consumerhelp@state.sd.us.