Thousands of Publishers Clearing House (PCH) customers are set to receive refund checks after the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) found the company used deceptive marketing tactics in its popular sweepstakes promotions.
The FTC has begun mailing out over $18 million in refunds to 281,724 eligible customerswho, according to the agency, were misled by PCH’s use of “dark patterns” — manipulative design tactics — in emails and online promotions.
In its 2023 lawsuit, the FTC accused PCH of misleading consumers into believing they needed to buy products to increase their chances of winning or to complete their sweepstakes entry. Many of the emails sent by PCH reportedly featured subject lines that appeared to mimic official government documents, such as tax forms, to increase open rates.
The FTC also claimed PCH misrepresented product offers as “risk-free,” added surprise shipping and handling fees, and misrepresented how customer data was shared with third parties prior to 2019. Many impacted customers were older and lower-income individuals, according to the agency.
Who Will Receive a Refund Check?
Only those consumers who received and clicked on the misleading emails and then placed an order are eligible to receive a refund. The FTC has not disclosed individual refund amounts.
Customers with questions can visit ftc.gov/PCH or call the refund administrator directly at 1-888-516-0774.
PCH Responds to Refund Announcement
In response to the news, PCH acknowledged the refunds stem from a settlement reached with the FTC in June 2023 and emphasized that no new complaint has been filed.
“While we disagreed with the FTC’s assertions at the time, we were glad to have resolved the matter and move forward continuing to do what we do best — provide consumers fun entertainment and games powered by our famous chance to win,” said Christopher Irving, Vice President of Consumer and Legal Affairs at PCH.
PCH added that its Prize Patrol continues to surprise winners nationwide with its signature balloons, champagne, and oversized checks.