Mission Statement
The Attorney General has the responsibility of protecting the public's interests in an open and honest marketplace. The Consumer Protection Division enforces Missouri's Consumer Protection Act and antitrust laws, and has the responsibility of representing the Commissioner of Securities of the Secretary of State’s office. Missouri’s consumer protection statutes prohibit deception, fraud, unfair practices and misrepresentation or concealment of material facts in the sale or advertisement of goods or services. These laws authorize the Attorney General to take action against such fraud and ensure that consumers' rights are protected.
The division also has an active consumer education program. Consumers can file complaints or obtain information by calling the Attorney General’s Consumer Hotline at (800) 392-8222 (Outside MO: 573-751-3321) or online. The division receives more than 90,000 consumer complaints and inquiries each year publications.
Under the Missouri Antitrust Law, the Attorney General has the authority to represent the state or any of its political subdivisions, public agencies, school districts or municipalities in actions to prohibit monopolies and trade restraints. The Attorney General also may act under federal antitrust statutes to bring civil actions in the name of the state and on behalf of Missouri residents to recover damages for injuries caused by certain antitrust violations.
The Attorney General is the state's chief prosecutor for securities fraud, and may initiate legal actions for civil injunctive relief, penalties and restitution under the Missouri Merchandising Practices Law. Attorneys in this division also protect Missourians by enforcing compliance with state laws by trusts, foundations and nonprofit corporations.
The No Call program to reduce unwanted telemarketing calls also is under the Consumer Protection Division. Missourians may register for No Call by calling 1-866-BUZZOFF or online.