For Release
FTC Sends More Than $1 Million to Consumers Harmed by Rhinelander Auto’s Unlawful Junk Fees and Discriminatory Financing
The Federal Trade Commission is sending more than $1 million in refunds to consumers who were allegedly harmed by Rhinelander Auto Center’s junk fees and discriminatory practices.
The FTC and State of Wisconsin took action against Rhinelander Auto and its general manager in 2023, alleging that they regularly charged many customers junk fees for “add-on” products or services without the customer’s consent. The defendants also discriminated against American Indian customers in the cost of financing by adding more “markup” to their interest rates, according to the complaint.
The FTC is sending checks to 7,531 consumers. Recipients should cash their checks within 90 days, as indicated on the check. Consumers who have questions about their payment should contact the refund administrator, Analytics, at 866-648-7161, or visit the FTC website to view frequently asked questions about the refund process. The Commission never requires people to pay money or provide account information to get a refund.
The Commission’s interactive dashboards for refund data provide a state-by-state breakdown of refunds in FTC cases. In 2023, FTC actions led to $330 million in refunds to consumers across the country.
The Federal Trade Commission works to promote competition and protect and educate consumers. The FTC will never demand money, make threats, tell you to transfer money, or promise you a prize. Learn more about consumer topics at consumer.ftc.gov, or report fraud, scams, and bad business practices at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Follow the FTC on social media, read consumer alerts and the business blog, and sign up to get the latest FTC news and alerts.