Overview

• The Federal Trade Commission is sending refund checks to 281,724 customers who were misled by Publishers Clearing House’s deceptive email marketing tactics.
• The $18.5 million settlement stems from a 2023 lawsuit accusing PCH of using misleading subject lines and hidden fees to induce purchases, disproportionately affecting older and lower-income consumers.
• Refund recipients are advised to cash their checks within 90 days and are reminded the FTC will never request payment or account information to claim refunds.
• PCH emails falsely implied purchases were necessary to enter sweepstakes or improve winning odds, and surprise fees contradicted claims of 'risk-free' orders.
• The settlement also requires PCH to overhaul its business practices, including clearer privacy policies and disclosures to prevent future consumer deception.