Verizon Sues T-Mobile for False Advertising

• T-Mobile allegedly promised consumers over $1,000 in annual savings by comparing its promotional rates to Verizon's standard rates and inflating the value of streaming and other benefits
• The National Advertising Review Board previously found T-Mobile's substantially identical savings claims unsubstantiated and misleading in 2025 and 2026, yet T-Mobile continued similar advertising
• Verizon has 146.9 million subscribers and is seeking unspecified triple damages plus an injunction under federal and New York state laws

Summary: Verizon Sues T-Mobile for False Advertising

Key Development:

Verizon Wireless filed a false advertising lawsuit against T-Mobile on February 4 in Manhattan federal court, alleging the rival carrier misled consumers about potential savings when switching providers.

Core Allegations:

• T-Mobile claimed customers could save over $1,000 annually by switching from Verizon
• Verizon accuses T-Mobile of exaggerating savings by more than 100% in some cases
• T-Mobile allegedly compared its promotional rates against Verizon's standard rates rather than making "apples-to-apples" comparisons
• The lawsuit claims T-Mobile inflated the value of streaming, satellite connectivity, and other benefits

Regulatory Context:

Verizon alleges T-Mobile continued using "substantially identical" claims that the National Advertising Review Board (NARB) previously found unsubstantiated and misleading in 2025 and 2026, suggesting a pattern of repeated violations.

Legal Claims and Remedies:

• Verizon seeks triple damages under the federal Lanham Act for intentional false advertising
• Additional damages sought for violating New York unfair competition and trade practices laws
• Request for immediate halt to the challenged advertisements

Market Context:

Verizon reported 146.9 million subscribers (article appears truncated). The lawsuit highlights intensifying competition in the U.S. wireless market, where carriers increasingly rely on aggressive comparative advertising to attract customers.

Company Response:

T-Mobile, headquartered in Bellevue, Washington, had no immediate comment on the lawsuit. Verizon also did not provide additional commentary beyond the court filing.

Implications:

This legal action could impact T-Mobile's marketing strategies and potentially result in significant financial penalties if Verizon prevails.