The Pennsylvania Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law was enacted to protect the public from unfair and deceptive business practices. Business practices that are illegal under this Act include false advertisement, misrepresentation, misleading price reductions, failing to comply with a written guarantee or warranty, and any fraudulent or deceptive conduct that creates a likelihood of confusion or misunderstanding among consumers. The Pennsylvania Attorney General and County District Attorneys can enforce the Consumer Protection Law by filing a lawsuit to stop conduct that is in violation of the Act and require payment of fines and restitution for those who have been harmed.
Individual consumers may also file a private action if they suffer a loss of money or property due to unfair or deceptive business practices in connection with a purchase or lease of goods or services for personal or household use. Consumers that succeed in a private action can recover up to three (3) times the amount of their actual damages, as well as attorney fees.
