For the first time in Ohio, the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection section has opened its doors to handle complaints from nonprofits and small businesses being preyed upon by scammers and deceptive vendors.

Attorney General Richard Cordray is reaching out to nonprofits and small businesses that have been mistreated in the marketplace. Since beginning a test launch of this program roughly six months ago, the office has received more than 500 complaints and secured more than $60,000 for small businesses and nonprofits.

Attorney General Cordray announced the initiative to the state earlier this month.

Some examples of ways that the office was able to help included:

• A West Jefferson library was charged for a web service that it never authorized. The Attorney General’s Office recovered $244.
• A southeast Ohio community and visitor’s bureau was tricked into buying unneeded and overpriced toner for a new printer. After returning the item, the company asked for a roughly $75 restocking fee; the office intervened and made sure that the bureau did not have to pay the fee.

Through this new program, the office hopes to help nonprofits and small businesses from being nickel-and-dimed by unscrupulous operators.

To file a complaint, visit: www.OhioAttorneyGeneral.gov/Complaint