A consumer is a person who purchases goods or services for personal use.
In Tennessee, as in other states, a consumer is defined as an individual who buys goods or services primarily for personal, family, or household use. Tennessee's consumer protection laws are designed to safeguard consumers from unfair and deceptive business practices. The Tennessee Consumer Protection Act of 1977 (TCPA), found in Tennessee Code Annotated §§ 47-18-101 through 47-18-125, prohibits various deceptive practices, including false advertising, bait and switch tactics, and other forms of consumer fraud. The Act also provides for the Tennessee Division of Consumer Affairs, which is the state agency responsible for protecting consumer rights, educating consumers, and handling consumer complaints. Consumers in Tennessee have the right to seek redress for violations of the TCPA, including the ability to file a lawsuit for damages against violators. Additionally, federal laws such as the Federal Trade Commission Act provide further protections against unfair and deceptive practices on a national level.